Site navigation

Navigation

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy for refractory Achilles tendinopathy

 
Guidance issued
 
IPG Number: IPG312

Summary

The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has issued full guidance to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland on extracorporeal shockwave therapy for refractory Achilles tendinopathy.

Guidance has also been issued on Extracorporeal shockwave therapy for refractory plantar fasciitis and Extracorporeal shockwave therapy for refractory tennis elbow. It replaces the previous guidance on  Extracorporeal shockwave therapy for refractory tendinopathies (plantar fasciitis and tennis elbow) (IPG139, November 2005).

Description

Achilles tendinopathy is a condition of the tendon which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It is usually caused by overuse or injury. Symptoms include pain in the lower calf and back of the heel, and weakness or stiffness. In extracorporeal shockwave therapy, a machine is used to deliver sound waves to the painful area. It is not known exactly how it works, but it is thought that it might stimulate healing.

OPCS code:

Details

Arrangement:
Special
Topic area:
Musculoskeletal
Therapeutic procedures
Specialty:
Specialist advice has been sought from:
  • British Orthopaedic Association
  • British Society of Skeletal Radiologists
  • Royal College of Radiologists
  • British Society for Rheumatology
  • British Orthopaedic Foot Surgery Society
  • British Elbow and Shoulder Society
Date notified to NICE:
10 September 2008
Guidance issue date:
26 August 2009

Contact details:

Project manager (for general enquiries or comments)
(for general enquiries or comments)
Ben Doak
Contact Address:

Interventional Procedures Programme
National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence
MidCity Place
71 High Holborn
London
WC1V 6NA

Links: