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.
At Lifestyle Rejuvenation Medical Group, we use ShockWave therapy 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 Treated by Shockwave Therapy
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, resulting from inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot. Shockwave has proven effective in reducing pain and promoting healing in patients with chronic plantar fasciitis.
Achilles Tendinopathy
Achilles tendinopathy is characterized by pain and swelling in the Achilles tendon, often resulting from overuse or injury. Shockwave stimulates tendon repair and reduces pain, making it an effective treatment for this condition.
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Tennis elbow is a painful condition caused by overuse of the forearm muscles, leading to inflammation of the tendons on the outer side of the elbow. Shockwave helps reduce pain and inflammation, promoting tendon healing.
Calcific Tendonitis
Calcific tendonitis involves the deposition of calcium crystals in the tendons, leading to pain and reduced range of motion. Shockwave breaks down these calcium deposits and stimulates the body's natural healing response.
Patellar Tendinopathy
Also known as jumper's knee, patellar tendinopathy is characterized by pain in the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone. Shockwave can effectively reduce pain and promote tendon healing in affected individuals.
Shoulder Pain and Rotator Cuff Injuries
Shockwave is used to treat various shoulder conditions, including rotator cuff injuries and shoulder impingement. It helps reduce pain, improve shoulder function, and promote tissue repair.
Chronic Pain Conditions
Shockwave has shown promise in treating chronic pain conditions such as lower back pain and myofascial pain syndrome. By targeting specific pain points, Shockwave can provide significant relief and improve quality of life.
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.