(Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy)
What is shockwave therapy?
Shockwave Therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive medical treatment that uses acoustic waves to stimulate healing in injured tissues. The high-energy sound waves are directed at specific areas of the body to promote blood flow, reduce inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair. This therapy is commonly used to treat conditions like tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, chronic pain, and other musculoskeletal injuries. By triggering the body’s natural healing processes, Shockwave Therapy can help relieve pain and improve mobility without the need for surgery or medication.
How does shockwave therapy work?
Shockwave therapy works by delivering high-energy sound waves to targeted areas of the body. These sound waves stimulate healing by increasing blood flow, reducing inflammation, and encouraging the repair of damaged tissues. The treatment also promotes the breakdown of calcified deposits and triggers the release of natural growth factors, which help accelerate recovery and reduce pain.
What conditions qualify for shockwave therapy?
Shockwave therapy is commonly used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, particularly those involving chronic pain or slow-healing soft tissue injuries. Some conditions that may qualify for shockwave therapy include:
● Plantar Fasciitis – Heel pain caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia. ● Tendinopathies – Chronic tendon injuries like Achilles tendinitis, patellar tendinitis (jumper’s knee), and tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis).
● Calcific Shoulder Tendinitis – Calcium deposits in the shoulder tendons. ● Bursitis – Painful inflammation of fluid-filled sacs, especially in areas like the hip or shoulder.
● Trigger Points / Muscle Pain (Myalgia) – Tight knots in muscles causing localized or referred pain.
● Shin Splints – Pain along the shinbone due to overuse or stress.
● Delayed Healing Fractures – Bone fractures that are slow to heal.
● Hip Pain or Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome – Chronic pain around the outer hip region.
● Iliotibial Band Syndrome – Pain along the outer thigh area.
Doctors typically recommend shockwave therapy when other treatments like physical therapy, rest, or medication fail to provide relief.
What should I expect during Shockwave Therapy?
During shockwave therapy, you can expect a non-invasive procedure that helps stimulate healing for chronic pain or injured tissues. A typical treatment course is once a week for three weeks. However, a more tailored treatment course may be recommended based on your condition or responses to previous treatments.
Here’s what typically happens:
Before the Procedure:
● No special preparation is required.
● Dr. Pang will identify the treatment area through a physical exam or imaging. ● Gel is applied to the skin over the affected area to enhance the transmission of shockwaves.
During the Procedure:
● A handheld device delivers high-energy sound waves (shockwaves) to the affected area.
● You may feel pulsing or tapping sensations as the waves penetrate the tissue.
● Some discomfort may occur, especially in sensitive areas, but the intensity can be adjusted if needed.
● Sessions usually last 5 to 15 minutes depending on the treatment area. After the Procedure:
● You can resume normal activities immediately 24 hours after treatment. ● Mild soreness, redness, bruising or swelling may occur but should resolve within a few days.
● While some patients notice improvement after one session, it is typical to see results after multiple treatments (often 3-5 sessions over several weeks).
Expected Results: ● Pain relief and healing typically develop over weeks as the body responds to treatment. ● Best results often appear after several treatments as the therapy stimulates blood flow and tissue regeneration.