Shockwave Therapy at Alliance Orthopedics
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal pulse activation technology (EPAT) or extracorporeal shockwave therapy, is a non-invasive treatment that leverages the body’s natural healing process to relieve pain and promote the repair of injured tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissues. This form of regenerative medicine, or orthobiologic therapy, releases growth factors in the targeted area, encouraging cellular repair and reducing inflammation.
Shockwave therapy is particularly effective for treating tendinopathies and persistent ligament injuries that are otherwise challenging to heal. In cases where tendinopathies have led to calcium buildup, focused shock waves can even help dissolve these deposits, further improving tissue health and flexibility.
Beyond addressing acute injuries, shockwave therapy can be beneficial for post-surgical recovery, particularly in orthopedic cases where painful tendons and ligaments persist after surgery. For example, hip impingement surgery may alleviate structural issues, but years of strain on the surrounding tendons can still result in chronic pain. Shockwave therapy offers targeted relief by enhancing blood flow, reducing residual pain, and promoting the healing of these soft tissues, making it a valuable addition to post-surgical rehabilitation and pain management.
What Injuries Can Be Treated With Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy is a well-established medical treatment that has been in use for many years. It is commonly employed as a non-invasive solution for treating kidney stones and orthopedic injuries. This therapy is also highly effective in treating various sports injuries by reducing pain and promoting healing, particularly in cases of tendinopathy. Some common injuries treated include:
- Foot Pain: Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendinopathy
- Knee Pain: Patellar Tendinopathy (Jumper’s Knee)
- Leg Pain: Hamstring Injuries
- Hip Pain: Rectus Femoris and Lateral Hip/Gluteal Tendinopathies
- Elbow Pain: Golfer’s Elbow and Tennis Elbow
- Shoulder Pain: Rotator Cuff Injuries
- Chronic Stress Fractures
How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?
The treatment involves holding a shockwave device against the skin, which sends waves into the injured tissues. This stimulates increased blood flow and growth hormone release, promoting tissue regeneration.
Benefits of Shockwave:
- Non-surgical
- Pain Relief
- Promotes Natural Healing
- Treats Chronic Conditions
- Short Treatment Time
- No Medication Required
Types of Shockwave Therapy: Radial vs. Focused
There are two main types of shockwave therapy commonly used in medical practices: radial shockwave therapy (RSWT) and focused shockwave therapy (FSWT).
Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT): This type of shockwave therapy delivers a more superficial, low-energy shockwave to the affected area. The pressure waves spread out radially from the treatment point, making it ideal for treating larger areas of the body, such as the shoulder, elbow, or lower back. RSWT is often used to treat conditions like plantar fasciitis, tendinitis, and calcific shoulder tendinopathy. It’s less intense than focused shockwave therapy, providing a gentler treatment that can still stimulate healing and reduce pain over time.
Focused Shockwave Therapy (FSWT): In contrast, focused shockwave therapy delivers high-energy shockwaves to a precise, targeted point within the body. FSWT is ideal for treating deeper, more localized injuries, such as deep muscle tears or stubborn calcifications in tendons. Because of the high energy used, it can penetrate deeper tissues, promoting faster healing and effective pain relief in areas that are harder to reach with other treatments.
Both types of shockwave therapy can provide significant benefits in pain management, improving mobility, and enhancing tissue repair. The choice of which type to use depends on the specific condition being treated and the location of the injury.
Is Shockwave Therapy Painful?
While some patients may feel mild discomfort during shockwave therapy, it is generally not painful. The level of discomfort can vary depending on the person, the location of the injury, and proximity to a bone. To help reduce any discomfort, a topical gel is applied before treatment, and any sensation typically fades right after the session is complete.
How Long Does Shockwave Therapy Take?
A typical session lasts 15 to 20 minutes, with patients usually receiving three to five treatments over several weeks.
How Effective Is Shockwave Therapy?
Clinicians have observed significant improvements in many patients following shockwave therapy, particularly for chronic musculoskeletal conditions. While research is ongoing to better understand its full effectiveness, current findings indicate that results tend to improve over time as the body’s natural healing mechanisms are activated. To further support recovery, shockwave therapy is often combined with treatments like physical therapy or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, enhancing the body’s ability to repair and strengthen damaged tissues.
How Long Is the Recovery Period After Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy typically requires little to no downtime. Most patients, including athletes, are able to return to their usual activities within 12 hours of treatment, making it a convenient option for those with active lifestyles.
Are There Any Side Effects or Complications?
Though complications are rare, they should be considered prior to treatment. For example, if a tendon or ligament is close to tearing, shockwave therapy could potentially aggravate the injury. Patients with low bone density, such as those with osteoporosis, may also face an increased risk of stress fractures. To ensure safe and effective treatment, a comprehensive evaluation by a physician or orthopedic expert is essential before beginning shockwave therapy.
Get Back to Your Active Life with Shockwave Therapy at Alliance Orthopedics
If you’re struggling with chronic pain or recovering from an injury, shockwave therapy at Alliance Orthopedics can provide the relief you need. Our team of expert orthopedic specialists and sports medicine specialists is here to guide you through every step of the healing process, offering personalized care that targets your specific condition. Don’t let pain hold you back—take the first step towards recovery today. Contact us to schedule your consultation and learn how shockwave therapy can help you regain strength, mobility, and a pain-free lifestyle.
