Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing in injured or painful tissues.
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-surgical treatment that delivers high-powered sound waves to targeted areas of the body. These waves stimulate the body’s natural healing processes by increasing blood flow, promoting cell regeneration, and reducing chronic inflammation, which can help repair damaged tissues and relieve pain.
How It Works
During treatment, a handheld device is applied to the affected area, often with a gel to improve transmission. The shockwaves penetrate the skin and underlying tissues, creating a controlled microtrauma that triggers an inflammation-like response, encouraging the formation of new blood vessels and tissue repair. Patients may feel pulses or mild discomfort, but the procedure is generally tolerable and does not require anesthesia.
Conditions Treated
Shockwave therapy is effective for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Tennis elbow
- Calcific shoulder tendinopathy
- Stress fractures
- Other chronic tendon or ligament injuries
It is often used when conventional treatments like physiotherapy, rest, or medication have not provided sufficient relief.
Treatment Process
- Sessions typically last 5–15 minutes and are performed weekly for several weeks.
- The intensity of the shockwaves can be adjusted based on patient comfort.
- Patients are usually able to continue normal activities after treatment, though strenuous activity should be avoided for 48 hours.
- Maximum benefits may take up to 90 days to manifest, and therapy is often combined with physiotherapy or sports massage for optimal results.
Benefits
- Non-invasive and does not require surgery or anesthesia
- Speeds up recovery from chronic injuries
- Reduces pain by overstimulating nerves and decreasing sensitivity
- Promotes tissue regeneration and improved blood circulation
- Can be tailored as focused or radial therapy depending on the depth and type of injury