Shock the pain out of your tendons with Shockwave Therapy

What is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment used to relieve pain and promote healing in various musculoskeletal conditions. It involves the use of sound waves to deliver energy to injured areas of the body. This energy helps to stimulate the body's natural healing processes, making it an effective alternative to surgery or medication for chronic pain and injuries. Shockwave therapy is particularly beneficial for conditions that have not responded well to other treatments.

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How does Shockwave Therapy work?

Shockwave therapy works by sending sound waves into the body through a device that is applied to the skin. These sound waves are not electrical shocks but rather pressure waves that penetrate the tissues. The therapy stimulates the body's natural healing processes through several mechanisms:

• Increased Blood Flow: The sound waves help to increase blood circulation to the injured area, bringing more nutrients and oxygen to promote healing.
• Collagen Production: Shockwave therapy stimulates the production of collagen, an essential protein for repairing damaged tissues.
• Reduction of Inflammation: The treatment helps to reduce chronic inflammation by triggering the release of healing cells.
• Pain Reduction: It can help to decrease pain by exhausting a chemical in the body called substance P, which is responsible for transmitting pain signals.
• Breaking Down Calcifications: Shockwave therapy can break down calcified fibroblasts, which are hardened tissues that can cause pain and dysfunction.

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What does Shockwave Therapy feel like?

Many people are curious about what shockwave therapy feels like. During a session, a healthcare provider will apply a gel to the skin over the treatment area. This gel helps the sound waves to penetrate the skin more effectively. The device used for therapy makes a tapping sound, which can be surprising at first. The sensation is often described as a series of taps or pulses on the skin.

Initially, the treatment may feel uncomfortable, especially if the area is very tender. However, as the session progresses, many people experience a numbing sensation and a reduction in pain. The treatment typically lasts between 5 to 15 minutes, and the intensity can be adjusted to ensure comfort.

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What conditions can Shockwave Therapy treat?

Shockwave therapy is versatile and can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, particularly those involving tendons and soft tissues. Some common conditions that benefit from shockwave therapy include:

• Plantar Fasciitis: A painful condition affecting the heel and bottom of the foot.
• Achilles Tendinopathy: Pain and inflammation in the Achilles tendon.
• Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy: Pain in the shoulder due to tendon damage.
• Patellar Tendinopathy (Jumper's Knee)**: Pain in the knee tendon.
• Chronic Back and Neck Pain: Persistent pain in the spine.
• Muscle Strains: Injuries to muscles that cause pain and stiffness.

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Is Shockwave Therapy right for me?

Shockwave therapy can be an excellent option for individuals who have had an injury for more than three months and have not found relief from other treatments. However, it is not suitable for everyone. People with certain conditions, such as blood clotting disorders, infections, or those who are pregnant, should avoid shockwave therapy. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if this treatment is appropriate for your specific condition.

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What are the benefits of Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy offers several benefits, making it a popular choice for treating chronic pain and injuries:

• Non-Invasive: It does not require surgery or injections, reducing the risk of complications.
• Effective: Many patients experience significant pain relief and improved function after a few sessions.
• Quick Recovery: The treatment itself is quick, and there is no downtime required, allowing patients to return to their daily activities immediately.
• Reduced Need for Pain Medications: By addressing the root cause of pain, shockwave therapy can reduce the reliance on pain medications.

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How often will I need Shockwave Therapy?

The frequency and number of shockwave therapy sessions depend on the specific condition being treated and the individual's response to the therapy. Typically, patients undergo treatment once a week for three to six weeks. The effects of shockwave therapy are cumulative, meaning that the benefits build up over time.

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Are there any side effects?

Shockwave therapy is generally safe, but like any treatment, it can have side effects. Some people may experience mild discomfort, redness, or swelling in the treated area. These side effects are usually temporary and subside within a few days. It is important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions and report any unusual symptoms.

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Take home message

Shockwave therapy is a promising treatment option for individuals suffering from chronic musculoskeletal pain and injuries. By harnessing the body's natural healing processes, it offers a non-invasive and effective alternative to traditional treatments. If you are considering shockwave therapy, consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine if it is the right choice for you.

If you'd like to try Shockwave Therapy for your persistent muscle, tendon, or ligament problem, come see one of our Physiotherapists or Chiropractors at Blacktown Health. To make a booking, call us on 02 8662 0496 or book an appointment online now.