“Out of 10, That’s a 9!”
It is fascinating for Physiquipe, to be allowed into the all-important elite world of sports medicine. This occasion, at Liverpool FC, was a humbling experience, to say the least. Training the medical staff on their new Piezowave 2T direct shockwave device was a pleasure too.
With a negative covid test confirmed by the friendly reception staff, we were instantly made to feel at home. We were waiting for Mr Lee Nobes (Head Physio, Liverpool FC) to take us into their medical quarters, which if the reception was anything to go by, was impressive to say the least.
An Experience To Remember
The calmness of the airy atrium was then surged with a winning energy as the first team, led by Jürgen Klopp, set off into one of the adjacent cinema/lecture rooms to strategically prepare for their Champions League contest against Benfica. Their athlete’s presence could have been planned or a lucky coincidence, either way, it gave us a sense that no stone is unturned at Liverpool FC, with their meticulous winning approach.
Joined By The Experts
Physiquipe was prepared to be joined by Dr Anders Broegaard, (25+ years shockwave experience and board member of Danish Clinical Society for ESWT) with thanks to manufacturers, ELvation Medical & Richard Wolf, est. 1906. With a combined lineage of approximately 250 years, both LFC and ELvation don’t show their age, embracing innovative technology, experience and striving for excellence.
Dr. Anders has developed his clinical craft through years of shockwave experience and his new clinic in Copenhagen is also home to four PiezoWave devices.
“The Piezowave is simple to set up, instantly ready, the most powerful, the most accurate, and with the linear handpiece – gives MSK clinicians instant scanning feedback. I’ve used all the devices; this is the only one I use now.” Anders explained
To have such an armoury at one’s fingertips as well as the positive biochemical changes true focus shockwave brings, is a real asset for Lee’s medical team. Players can be treated at the acute or chronic stage as well as mediating pain, an inevitable side effect, as squads search for that extra 1%.
Impressive Technology
Like all technology, it is only as good as the person that is using it, so important for Physiquipe to support the training aspect.
With a condensed lecture on the physics and parameters of shockwave completed, Lee took us to one of the impressive treatment studios for the essential practical part.
“The great thing about the linear therapy source, is it gives us instant feedback and we try to replicate the pain the patient feels,” Anders had positioned Paul Small (one of LFC’s longest-serving back-room staff) in a comfortable position to treat his aggravated elbow.
“As the device is so powerful, we must ensure we get feedback from the patient throughout the treatment.” Anders went on.
One thing Anders may not have taken into consideration is the comradery that exists in English football medical teams. With all eyes on Paul (including a couple of first-team players being taped), what feedback would the face-masked massage therapist give Anders? Extraordinarily little. Paul knew better than to show any form of weakness to the squad, despite their sniggers and giggles – a bead of sweat formed on Small’s forehead. Anders’s experience, with the combined effects of energy adjustments and handpiece repositioning, meant the site of Paul’s pain would still be found.
High Praise
“Out of ten, That’s a nine!” Paul exclaimed to the cheers of the team, regretting his decision to keep quiet. Anders and the Piezowave2T had found the problem. With increased feedback from that point, Anders could control Paul’s pain.
See one, do one, teach one, and it was over to the medical team to learn their craft. From patellar tendons to learning the technical specs of the device, the Piezowave2T had its new home.
The prowess of the LFC medical team now has more recovery and maintenance pathway options to give their players and squad. We hope the Piezowave 2T is their first-choice rehab technology as it is intended.
Liverpool opted for the combination of the Linear treatment source (45mm x 20mm x 3mm treatment zone) and the FB10G6 (central focal zone capable of reaching 60mm and a max EFD of 0.7 mJ/mm2) covering them for all eventualities.
Physiquipe would welcome consulting what treatment source and options would benefit your clinic, club, or hospital. Please contact us on info@physiquipe.com where one of our account managers can discuss this with you.
“Many thanks to Physiquipe and Dr Broegaard for coming in for our training. We thought it was professional, intuitive and we’re excited to use the PiezoWave2T. So far, we’ve been impressed with the capabilities and can see its potential maintaining players as well as treating those chronic and acute cases.” Lee Nobes, Head Physio – Liverpool Football Club
Training and installation visit at Liverpool FC written by John Williams, Business Development Manager – Physiquipe
