Shockwave therapy is a cutting-edge treatment for joint pain. The device creates controlled and measured pressure waves that are then transferred to the tissue at the end of the applicator with precision. Shockwave therapy works by increasing blood flow to damaged tissues to speed the recovery process while also promoting the growth of new healthy tissue. Studies have shown1 that shockwave therapy can also reduce pain by its direct action on nerves and pain signaling. Shockwave treatment creates a local inflammatory response, which jumpstarts the body’s natural healing process.

Shockwave therapy is performed by one of the trained team members in our office and typically takes about 5 minutes. Most patients respond best after a series of treatments. While shockwave therapy treatments are non-invasive, it is not abnormal to experience a minor amount tingling or discomfort at the site during the treatment. Most patients experience an immediate relief in symptoms after treatment2.

Shockwave therapy is also referred to as: radial shockwave therapy (RSWT), extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), extracorporeal pulse-activation therapy (EPAT), and radial pressure wave therapy. It does differ, however, from ultrasound or sound wave therapy.

Shockwave therapy is becoming increasingly popular for athletes (and the general public) with a wide range of soft tissue injuries like strains and sprains. This is because recovery times are much faster compared to invasive procedures, and shockwave therapy helps patients get back to their activities faster. Shockwave Therapy is also another great drug-free pain relief option that does more than just cover up the pain. Shockwave Therapy treatments actually help resolve the reasons behind the pain, so you can get back to an active, healthy lifestyle without discomfort. Just a few of the conditions we have treated with shockwave therapy include:

• Achilles tendonitis
• Shin splints
• Tennis or Golfer’s elbow
• Plantar fasciitis
• Tendonitis in arms, legs, etc.
• Rotator cuff tears
• Frozen shoulder
• Other conditions when deemed appropriate

Shockwave Therapy is a great complementary therapy that works in conjunction with other pain relief treatment modalities such as chiropractic adjustments, muscle adjustments, and massage therapy.

There are multiple benefits of shockwave therapy that speed up recovery time for a wide range of conditions4. For example, it enhances circulation to the injured area, which improves oxygen and nutrient delivery to nourish and heal cells.

Another benefit is a reduction in something called “calcification”, which is a problem in damaged tendons particularly. A buildup of calcium stiffens the tendons, but shockwave therapy breaks up and removes the excess calcium waste, while also stimulating collagen production to strengthen and fortify joints, bones, muscles, tendons, skin, and other connective tissues.

In addition, if you suffer from trigger points (knots of tight, tender muscle tissue that cause movement difficulties), shockwave therapy can also help relax and diffuse these problem areas so you can enjoy improved range of motion and pain relief.