Have you ever experienced chronic pain or discomfort that just doesn’t seem to go away, no matter what treatments you try? If so, you may be surprised to learn that shockwave therapy could be the solution you’ve been seeking.
As advancements in medical technology continue to reshape treatment approaches, shockwave therapy has emerged as a non-invasive, effective option for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. This cutting-edge therapy harnesses acoustic waves to promote healing, reduce pain, and improve mobility. Yet, despite its growing popularity and proven efficacy, many patients remain unaware of its potential benefits.
If you’re struggling with persistent pain, understanding the advantages of shockwave therapy could be a game-changer for your recovery journey. From enhancing tissue regeneration to minimising discomfort and improving function, this innovative treatment offers numerous compelling benefits.
What is shockwave therapy?
Shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes.
Shockwaves are delivered to the affected area, triggering a cascade of biological responses:
- Reduced inflammation: Decreases inflammation and pain.
- Increased blood flow: Improves circulation to the injured area, promoting faster healing.
- Stimulates tissue repair: Encourages the growth of new blood vessels and the production of growth factors, which aid in tissue repair.
- Nerve desensitisation: This can help to reduce pain by temporarily disrupting the transmission of pain signals.
Shockwave therapy procedure
The procedure for shockwave therapy is relatively straightforward and typically consists of the following steps:
1. Initial evaluation
Before treatment, a healthcare provider will assess your condition through your medical history, physical exams, and possibly imaging tests to determine the cause of your pain.
2. Preparation
After the treatment plan is set, the patient is comfortably positioned, and a conductive gel is applied to the skin over the area. This gel aids in the effective transmission of shockwaves to the tissues.
3. Application of shockwaves
A handheld device delivers shockwaves to the targeted area. The healthcare provider adjusts the intensity and frequency to meet the patient’s needs. During treatment, you may feel a tapping or pulsating sensation. Each session lasts about 15 to 30 minutes.
4. Post-treatment care
After the procedure, patients may feel mild discomfort or redness, but these effects typically fade quickly. There’s usually no downtime, enabling a prompt return to normal activities.
How does shockwave therapy work?
Shockwave therapy is thought to work by stimulating the body’s natural healing process. The shock waves are believed to break up scar tissue and calcifications to stimulate the growth of new blood vessels. This can help to reduce pain and inflammation and promote healing.
Shockwave therapy is typically administered in a series of treatments, usually once or twice a week for several weeks. The treatment is not usually painful, but some people may experience mild discomfort.
Common conditions treated with shockwave therapy
Shockwave therapy is commonly used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including:
- Tendinopathies: Conditions like tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, patellar tendinopathy, and rotator cuff tendinitis
- Chronic pain conditions: Conditions like chronic back pain, heel pain, and shoulder pain
- Muscle injuries: Muscle strains and tears
- Bone fractures (non-union fractures)
Benefits of shockwave therapy for musculoskeletal disorders
Patients with painful soft tissue conditions (muscles, tendons, ligaments), joints, and bones can benefit from shockwave therapy.
- Pain relief: Shockwave therapy can provide significant pain relief for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, patellar tendinopathy, plantar heel pain, rotator cuff tendinopathy, lateral elbow tendinopathy, trochanteric bursitis, frozen shoulder, calcific tendinitis, chronic non-calcific tendinopathy, etc.
- Improved healing: The shock waves stimulate the body’s natural healing process, which can lead to faster recovery and a reduced risk of recurrence.
- Reduced inflammation: Shockwave therapy can help to reduce inflammation in the affected area, which can help to improve pain and function.
- Increased blood flow: The shock waves can increase blood flow to the injured area, which can help to deliver nutrients and oxygen to the cells and promote healing.
- Minimal side effects: Shockwave therapy is a safe and effective treatment with minimal side effects. Most patients experience only mild discomfort during the procedure.
- Non-invasive: No surgery or incisions are required.
- Fast recovery time: Most patients can return to normal activities quickly.
- Effective for chronic conditions: Can provide relief for conditions that haven’t responded to other conservative treatments.
Final thoughts
As a promising non-invasive treatment option, shockwave therapy offers a compelling alternative for individuals suffering from various musculoskeletal conditions.
Shockwave therapy stands out as a valuable therapeutic tool in the management of musculoskeletal disorders. Its efficacy, coupled with its minimal side effects and non-invasive nature, makes it a worthwhile consideration for those seeking effective pain relief and optimal physical function.
Book an appointment with one of our experienced podiatrists today for a comprehensive assessment and customised treatment plan.
