Shockwave Therapy

Understanding Shockwave Therapy: A Breakthrough in Pain Management

In recent years, shockwave therapy has emerged as a revolutionary treatment option for various musculoskeletal conditions. This non-invasive therapy uses acoustic waves to promote healing and reduce pain, making it an increasingly popular choice for patients seeking relief from chronic conditions. In this blog, we’ll explore what shockwave therapy is, how it works, its benefits, and the conditions it can treat.

What is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), involves the application of acoustic waves to specific areas of the body. These waves create pressure pulses that can stimulate healing processes in tissues, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain. This therapy is typically administered in a clinical setting and has been used for decades, initially in urology for kidney stones before gaining traction in orthopedic applications.

How Does It Work?

The mechanism behind shockwave therapy lies in its ability to promote blood flow and enhance the body’s natural healing response. Here’s how it works:

  • Delivery of Acoustic Waves: A handheld device is used to deliver shockwaves to the affected area. These waves penetrate the skin and target deep tissues.

  • Increased Blood Circulation: The shockwaves stimulate blood flow, helping to deliver essential nutrients and oxygen to damaged tissues.

  • Cellular Repair and Regeneration: The therapy encourages the release of growth factors and activates cellular repair mechanisms, promoting tissue regeneration.

  • Pain Relief: Shockwaves can interrupt the pain cycle by decreasing nerve sensitivity, leading to significant pain reduction for patients.

Benefits of Shockwave Therapy

  • Non-Invasive: One of the most significant advantages of shockwave therapy is that it is non-invasive. Patients can avoid the risks and recovery time associated with surgical interventions.

  • Quick Recovery: Many patients experience little to no downtime after treatment, allowing them to resume normal activities shortly afterward.

  • Effective for Chronic Conditions: Shockwave therapy has shown promising results in treating chronic conditions that have not responded well to other treatments.

  • Minimal Side Effects: The procedure is generally well-tolerated, with minor side effects such as mild discomfort or redness at the treatment site.

  • Versatile Treatment: This therapy can be applied to various conditions affecting tendons, muscles, ligaments, and bones, making it a versatile option for healthcare providers.

Conditions Treated with Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy has been found effective for a variety of conditions, including:

  • Plantar Fasciitis: Chronic heel pain can be alleviated through targeted shockwave treatment.

  • Tendinitis: Conditions such as Achilles tendinitis and tennis elbow often respond well to this therapy.

  • Shoulder Pain: Rotator cuff injuries and calcific tendinitis can benefit from shockwave treatment.

  • Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae around joints can be effectively treated.

  • Non-Union Fractures: Shockwave therapy can stimulate healing in fractures that have not healed properly.

What to Expect During Treatment

A typical shockwave therapy session lasts about 15 to 30 minutes. The healthcare provider will assess your condition, and a gel may be applied to the treatment area to facilitate the transmission of shockwaves. Patients often describe the sensation as a series of mild taps or pulses.

Most patients require multiple sessions for optimal results, with treatments scheduled about a week apart. After the procedure, it’s common to experience mild soreness, similar to what one might feel after exercise.

Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You?

If you are struggling with chronic pain or have not found relief through traditional treatments, shockwave therapy may be worth considering. However, it’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine if this treatment is appropriate for your specific condition.

Conclusion

Shockwave therapy represents a significant advancement in pain management, offering a non-invasive solution with minimal side effects. As research continues to evolve, more patients may find relief from chronic pain, allowing them to return to their daily activities without discomfort. If you're curious about shockwave therapy and how it could help you, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Marla Hamilton, DC at (714) 552-8827 to learn more.
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Shockwave therapy or Extracorporeal Wave Therapy (ESWT) is an FDA cleared treatment for acute and chronic musculoskeletal pain and connective tissue disorder. With a 70 to 90% success rate, it is fast and effective with minimal side effects leading to quick recovery. It improves circulation, breaks down calcified deposits in the joints and tendons and stimulates cells to produce new bone and connective tissue. Treatments last 10 to 20 minutes and may require 6 to 12 sessions, depending on the condition. They are performed once a week for 3-6 weeks, depending on the chronicity of the problem. Improvement is usually seen about 4 weeks after the last visit. If you are experiencing shoulder, knee, ankle, or foot pain, contact Dr. Marla for a free consultation on what Shockwave Therapy can do for YOU!
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  • $85 Per Session


**This treatment is NOT covered by insurance

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