Shockwave Therapy
What is Focused Shockwave Therapy?
Focused Shockwave Therapy is a non-invasive medical treatment that uses high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate healing and reduce pain in various musculoskeletal conditions. It is particularly effective in treating conditions such as tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, and other soft tissue injuries.
How Does it Work?
During the procedure, a handheld device delivers focused shockwaves directly to the affected area. These shockwaves create microtrauma, promoting the body’s natural healing response by increasing blood flow, stimulating cell regeneration, and reducing inflammation. This process accelerates tissue repair and helps alleviate pain.
Conditions Treated with Focused Shockwave Therapy:
- Tendinitis: Focused Shockwave Therapy is commonly used to treat conditions like Achilles tendinitis, rotator cuff tendinitis, and elbow tendinitis.
- Plantar Fasciitis: This therapy has shown success in addressing the inflammation and pain associated with plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain.
- Muscle Injuries: It can be beneficial for certain muscle injuries, promoting healing and reducing pain in conditions like quadriceps or hamstring strains.
- Calcific Shoulder Tendinopathy: Focused Shockwave Therapy has demonstrated effectiveness in breaking down calcifications in the shoulder, improving range of motion and reducing pain.
- Knees: Focused Shockwave Therapy has shown promising results in treating various chronic knees issues like patellar tendinopathy (Jumper’s Knee), osteoarthritis, and iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS).
What to Expect During Treatment:
Session Duration: A typical session lasts about 15-30 minutes.
Frequency: The number of sessions varies based on the condition being treated, but for chronic conditions, usually one treatment per week for 6-8 weeks is recommended.
Sensation: You may experience mild discomfort during the procedure, but most patients tolerate it well, and settings can be adjusted to improve comfort level.
Post-Treatment: You may resume normal activities immediately after the procedure, although it is advisable to avoid strenuous activities for a short period (typically 24-38 hours following treatment).
Benefits of Focused Shockwave Therapy:
- Non-Invasive: No surgical incisions are required.
- No Downtime: Patients can usually resume normal activities shortly after each session.
- Reduced Pain: Many patients experience a significant reduction in pain and improved function.
- Minimal Side Effects: Side effects are generally mild and temporary, such as redness or bruising at the treatment site.
Is Focused Shockwave Therapy Right for You?
Dr. Matt will assess your specific condition and medical history to determine if Focused Shockwave Therapy is an appropriate treatment for you. It is essential to discuss any concerns or questions you may have with our office. It’s important to note that the effectiveness of focused shockwave therapy can vary from person to person, and its suitability depends on factors such as the specific condition, its severity, and the individual’s overall health.