The ShockWave Therapy
What Is ShockWave Therapy?
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is also known as Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Therapy (EPAT) or Acoustic Wave Therapy (AWT). ShockWave machines are multidisciplinary devices used in orthopedics, physiotherapy, sports medicine, urology and veterinary medicine. The main asset of Shockwave therapy is fast pain relief and mobility restoration. It was developed in the 1970s as a method for treating kidney stones. This method is called Lithotripsy and uses high energy shock waves to break up calcified stones, thus avoiding the need for painful and invasive surgeries. Over time, researchers tested ShockWave therapy for other conditions and found that it can effectively stimulate the regeneration and repair of damaged or torn muscles and tendons. It is becoming the preferred treatment to fix soft tissue injuries.We use ShockWave therapy here at our clinic because of its non-surgical and non-invasive pain relief benefits. Painkillers are not needed when performing the treatment making it ideal in speeding up recovery and curing various indications causing acute or chronic pain.
How ShockWave Therapy Works
ShockWave therapy works by emitting high energy acoustic pressure waves. These pulses of energy are delivered to the injured area using an applicator connected to the therapy device. These waves/pulses activate the circulation of new blood, break down calcifications and scar tissue, trigger the release of growth hormones, and promote the growth of new cells in the injured area. The result is effective pain relief in addition to better, faster and more complete healing.
Conditions We Treat Using ShockWave Therapy
ShockWave is now effectively being used in place of injections, physical therapy and certain surgeries for the following conditions:
- Shoulder Pain (Rotator Cuff, Frozen Shoulder, Shoulder Bursitis)
- Foot Pain (Plantar Fasciitis, Heel Spurs, Metatarsalgia, Achilles Tendonitis)
- Elbow Pain (Tennis or Golfer's Elbow)
- Hip Pain (Bursitis, Hamstring or IT Band)
- Knee Pain (Patellar Tendinitis, Jumper's Knee, Knee Bursitis)
- Trigger Points
- Chronic Neck and Back Pain
ShockWave therapy works by emitting high energy acoustic pressure waves. These pulses of energy are delivered to the injured area using an applicator connected to the therapy device. These waves/pulses activate the circulation of new blood, break down calcifications and scar tissue, trigger the release of growth hormones, and promote the growth of new cells in the injured area. The result is effective pain relief in addition to better, faster and more complete healing.
How Effective Is ShockWave Therapy?
Shockwave Therapy is FDA approved for a variety of conditions and there are hundreds of clinical studies proving efficacy. With a proven success rate that is equal to or greater than that of traditional treatment methods, including surgery, without the risks, complications, and lengthy recovery periods. There are no incisions and no risk of infection or scar tissue, like there is with surgery.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
The number of treatments needed is best determined after the doctor examines the problem area.
Who Is / Is Not A Candidate For ShockWave?
Most people are good candidates for ShockWave treatment. We treat people who either have been unsuccessful with or do not want to take prescription drugs, drug injections, or who wish to find alternatives for invasive surgeries.
How Soon Until I Start Feeling Better?
Many patients find a significant and immediate reduction in their pain after their first treatment. Others will feel results gradually after each treatment.
Does The Treatment Hurt?
If the area being treated is very painful before the treatment, then the treatment itself is often described as tender or sore. Most people have no issues with the treatment.
How Long Is The Treatment?
Each treatment takes 5 to 15 minutes depending on the condition being treated.
What Are The Possible Side Effects?
There have been very few side effects reported. In rare cases, skin bruising may occur. Patients may also feel soreness in the area for a day or two after treatment.
Can I Exercise While Undergoing ShockWave Therapy?
Most patients may resume their normal routine immediately after treatment.
Schedule A Free Consultation
Call us today to learn more and see if you are a good candidate for Shockwave Therapy. We would love to help you get on the road to a pain free life.