Wouldn’t it be amazing if you could address your chronic pain and painful physical conditions without the need for surgery or medications? Then we have great news for you! Since the 1980s, shockwave therapy has been effectively used as a non-invasive treatment for musculoskeletal disorders.
In fact, controlled scientific studies have shown up to 91% improvement with an 84% success rate when it comes to treating numerous conditions. If that sounds good to you, keep reading to learn more about shockwave therapy and its amazing benefits.
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment method that uses an applicator to direct radial shockwaves onto the area to be treated.
During the procedure, a special gel is applied to the painful area and the shockwave device is used. The applicator itself is a hand-piece that contains a fast-moving projective controlled by a compressor. The applicator uses compressed air (pneumatic pressure) to produce the shockwave and treat the affected area.
What Can Shockwave Therapy Treat?
Shockwave therapy can address a variety of complaints and conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system. It’s particularly useful in treating chronic conditions, especially those that affect medium to large-sized tendons..
Here are some of the conditions shockwave therapy can treat:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Achille Tendinopathy
- Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
- Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
- Jumper’s Knee (Patellar Tendinosis)
- Chronic Stress/Non-Union Fractures
- Osteoarthritis of the Knee
Shockwave therapy can also be used to relieve the pain of peripheral nerve damage as well as enhance muscle strength and decrease muscle tone.
The Benefits of Shockwave Therapy
1. A Safer Alternative to Medication and Surgery
Shockwave therapy is a safer alternative to medication and surgery as it’s non-invasive and does not require patients to take any additional medication.
2. Promotes Repair & Healing
While medications are effective in reducing pain, they do not repair the damage. Shockwave therapy relieves pain and promotes recovery with minimal side effects.
3. Quick Treatment
Surgeries require preparation and after-care. Shockwave therapy has none of that! Individual treatments take less than an hour.
You can experience results in as little as 3 sessions, with some patients feeling immediate relief. Between treatment you’re able to continue on with your usual day-to-day activities with no interruption.
4. Affordable
Shockwave treatment is inexpensive and as an added bonus, you also won’t have to miss additional time from work for recovery. You can also contact your insurance company to see if shockwave treatment is covered under your plan.
5. No Downtime & Quick Recovery
Again, because shockwave therapy is non-invasive and non-surgical, there is no downtime. There are few restrictions following the procedure so you can return to work, do your errands, and even drive yourself home from the appointment.
You may have to avoid high-impact activities for 48 hours following each session, but your therapist will give you a timeline based on your unique condition and needs.
6. Few Side Effects
While there are a few side effects associated with shockwave therapy, they are nowhere near as extensive as those following a surgery. In fact, side effects from shockwave therapy are extremely rare and depend on your level of pain, overall health, and other related health issues.
In some cases you may experience tolerable pain 2-4 hours after your treatment, mild discomfort during the treatment (similar to the snap of a rubber band), mild bruising and swelling, or slight numbness.
7. Boosts Collagen Production
Shockwave therapy aids in increasing collagen production which is one of the body’s building blocks needed to heal an injury. The pulses of the shockwave device help strengthen the injured and weakened areas to promote natural healing.
8. Breaks Up Calcification
When tendons are injured, it can cause fibroblasts to calcify in the area which can cause chronic pain and decreased mobility. Shockwave therapy can clear calcification by breaking it down into small particles that can be absorbed by the body, restoring function and reducing pain.
9. Stimulates Blood Flow
The pulses used in shockwave therapy stimulates blood flow which can help address issues such as weakened muscles and tissues. Increased blood flow enhances the body’s natural healing abilities.
10. Reverses Chronic Inflammation
Chronic pain is caused by chronic inflammation which is the body’s way of trying to heal injuries or abnormalities. However, inflammation causes pain and prolongs injuries. Shockwave therapy releases the cells from inflammation and allows the body to heal and recover.
When Not To Seek Shockwave Therapy
There are certain conditions and circumstances in which you should not receive shockwave therapy. Do not seek shockwave therapy if you:
- Use anticoagulants.
- Have any tumour diseases, cancer, or carcinoma
- Are pregnant
- Have received any cortisone therapy up to 6 weeks before treatment
Be honest about your medical history and current conditions and your therapist can work with you to determine if shockwave therapy is the appropriate treatment option for you!
Don’t Let Chronic Pain Get In the Way of Living!
Along with shockwave therapy, there is a multitude of non-invasive therapies available to get you back on your feet and living your best life! At River Stone Wellness, we strive to provide the best therapies to help you feel relaxed, comfortable, and healthy. We welcome you to contact us to find a therapist to suit your needs!
Give us a call at 780-705-2445 or contact us through our website.