What is shockwave therapy?
A multidisciplinary device used in orthopedics, physical therapy, sports medicine, urology and veterinary medicine. It's main assets are fast pain relief and mobility restoration.
How does it work?
Shockwave is an acoustic wave which carries high energy to painful spots and musculoskeletal tissues, subacute, subchronic and chronic conditions.The energy promotes regenerative and reparative processes of the bones, tendons and other soft tissues. The kinetic energy of the projectile, created by compressed air, is transferred to the transmitter at the end of the applicator and further into the tissue.
What are the medical effects?
The acoustic waves that are generated interact with the tissue causing overall effects of accelerated tissue repair and cell growth, analgesia and mobility restoration. Effects include: new blood vessel formation, reversal of chronic inflammation, stimulation of collagen production, dissolution of calcified fibroblasts, dispersion of pain mediator "substance P" and release of trigger points.
What conditions can shockwave treat?
Jumpers knee, Shoulder pain, Tennis elbow, Heel spurs & Plantar fascitis, Chronic tendinopathy, Medial tibial stress syndrome, Calcifications, Hip pain
How is the therapy performed?
Shockwave is a non-invasive treatment. 1. Palpation - The area to be treated is located by palpation. The most tender regions will be where the therapy is focused to be most effective. 2. Gel application - use of ultrasound gel is required to transmit the sound waves. 3. The applicator is pushed slightly against the region and the start button is pressed. A pain scale of 6/10 is anticipated, so while not a comfortable therapy, it takes only 3-4 minutes. Treatment is performed once per week and most indications require 3-5 treatments. Most patients however will experience immediate relief after just their first treatment.
How effect is this therapy?
For research studies click here
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