Shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing in various musculoskeletal conditions. Here are the key aspects of shockwave therapy:
How It Works
- Mechanism: The therapy involves the delivery of acoustic waves to the affected area. These waves create microtrauma and cavitation (the formation of small gas bubbles) in the tissues, which can stimulate the body’s natural healing processes.
- Types: There are two main types of shockwave therapy:
- Focused shockwave therapy (FSWT): Delivers targeted waves to a specific point.
- Radial shockwave therapy (RSWT): Disperses waves over a broader area.
Indications
Shockwave therapy is used to treat a variety of conditions, including:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
- Calcific shoulder tendinitis
- Patellar tendinopathy
- Myofascial trigger points
- Delayed or non-union fractures
Procedure
- Preparation: The area to be treated is often marked and a gel is applied to improve the transmission of the waves.
- Application: A handheld device is used to deliver the shockwaves. The procedure typically lasts 10-20 minutes.
- Sessions: Multiple sessions are usually required, often spaced a week apart.
Benefits
- Non-invasive: No need for surgery or injections.
- Minimal downtime: Patients can often resume normal activities shortly after treatment.
- Pain relief: Can provide significant pain reduction and improve function.
Side Effects
- Mild pain or discomfort during or after the procedure.
- Redness, swelling, or bruising at the treatment site.
- Numbness or tingling in the treated area.
Effectiveness
- Variable results: The effectiveness of shockwave therapy can vary depending on the condition being treated and individual patient factors.
- Evidence: Clinical studies have shown positive results for many conditions, but outcomes can differ.
Shockwave therapy is generally considered safe, but it should be performed by a trained healthcare professional. It may not be suitable for everyone, so a thorough evaluation is necessary before starting treatment.
