07 Aug Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave or Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) is a non-surgical technique developed for the treatment of localized musculoskeletal pain. Common conditions that can be successfully treated with Shockwave Therapy include:
Plantar Fasciitis
Heel Spurs
Patellar Tendonitis/tendonosis (Jumper’s knee)
Achilles Tendonitis/tendonosis
Tennis and Golfer’s elbow
Rotator Cuff tendonitis including calcifying tendonitis of the shoulder
Muscular trigger points
There is currently strong evidence for calcifying tendonitis of the shoulder and plantar fasciitis. More recently, Shockwave therapy has expanded to the treatment of chronic injuries such as Patellar tendinopathy (jumper’s knee) and Achilles tendinopathy. The success rate has ranged from 65% to 91% improvement, with low and negligible complications (Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, 2012). Shockwave therapy is a non-surgical option with results that match surgical outcomes, and should be considered when other treatment options have failed.
How does Shockwave Therapy work?
Shockwave Therapy involves the application of a series of high-energy percussions to the affected area. The shockwave is a physical shock, not an electric one. The shockwave causes interstitial and extracellular responses that accelerate tissue regeneration, particularly in cases where the body has been unable to do so on its own. It stimulates metabolism and improves blood circulation to facilitate the healing and regeneration of damaged tissue. Shockwave Therapy can also relieve pain by producing an analgesic effect on the treatment area.
What can I expect from a Shockwave Therapy treatment session?
An initial assessment must be conducted to determine if Shockwave Therapy is an appropriate treatment option for your condition.
It is more effective for chronic injuries persisting more than 3 months.
It is most effective for conditions resulting from connective tissue attachments to bone. See the list above.
It is usually booked as 3 – 5 treatments, 1X/ week for 3 – 5 weeks. This is typically followed by a rest period to allow the injured tissues to heal. Treatments can vary however depending on the patient and the condition.
What areas of the body or conditions can be treated?
Plantar Fasciitis
Heel spurs
Patellar Tendonitis/tendonosis (Jumper’s knee)
Achilles Tendonitis/tendonosis
Tennis and Golfer’s elbow
Rotator Cuff tendonitis including calcifying tendonitis
Muscular trigger points
What are the benefits of Shockwave Treatment?
This therapy works without the use of drugs; it stimulates the body’s natural self-healing process. There is usually an immediate reduction of pain and improved ease of movement. Secondary effects are minor. Shockwave therapy may also eliminate your need for surgery. It is also especially effective for chronic conditions.
How long does each treatment last?
The Shockwave Therapy is approximately 5 minutes per point, or approximately 2000 shocks per session. Shockwave is used as an adjunct to Chiropractic. An initial assessment and treatment will be conducted by one of the doctors at the clinic.
How many treatments will I need?
Typically 3-5 treatments sessions are necessary at weekly intervals. There is a possibility of additional treatments if your condition is very chronic.
Does the treatment itself, hurt?
Treatment can be uncomfortable, but it is usually well tolerated. It is an intense 5 minutes that most people are able to tolerate.
Will it hurt after the treatment?
Shockwave Therapy treatment has very low side effects. As you leave the clinic, you will most likely be feeling a reduction of pain but you may experience throbbing 2-4 hours following the treatment. This throbbing pain may occur for up to 24 to 48 hours.
What should I do if I am in pain following the treatment?
The shockwave will trigger an inflammatory response, which is the body’s natural process of healing. For this reason, refrain from using anti-inflammatory medications or ice.
What if it feels good following the treatment?
Even if it feels good, we recommend decreased activity for 48 hrs following the treatment.
Is Shockwave Therapy covered by my insurance?
Yes, Shockwave Therapy is invoiced under Chiropractic. It is always recommended to discuss your coverage with your provider.
What is the success rate for this kind of treatment?
Tennis elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)- up to 91%
Calcifying tendonitis of the shoulder- up to 91%
Plantar Fasciitis- up to 88%
Patellar Tendonitis/tendonosis (Jumper’s knee)- up to 87%
Achilles Tendonitis/tendonosis- up to 87%
What if it doesn’t work for me?
Although the short-term effects alone are exceptional, the long-term benefits of this treatment may take up to 3 to 4 months.
Are there contraindications and/or precautions I should be aware of?
YES!
Cortisone injections (within the last 6 weeks)
Hemophilia or any blood coagulation disorder
Blood thinning medications such as Heparin or Coumadin
Heart or circulatory problems
Cancer, Diabetes, Pregnancy
Growing children (Growth Plates)
Blood or nerve supplies too close to the affected area
Shockwaves are generally not applied to target areas located above air filled tissue (lungs), large nerves and blood vessels, the spinal column or the head
Ask your chiropractor if Shockwave Therapy can treat your condition and book your treatment sessions today!