Shockwave Therapy Explained: Revolutionising Pain Relief
Shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), can help treat various musculoskeletal conditions. Utilising acoustic waves that stimulate the body’s natural healing process, this noninvasive therapy can help support patients experiencing chronic pain and soft tissue injuries. Here’s a detailed look at the key advantages of shockwave therapy and the conditions it may treat.
How does shockwave therapy work?
Shockwave therapy works by delivering mechanical energy to tissues, which triggers biological responses at the cellular level. The therapy involves the following steps:
- Generation of shockwaves — A device generates shockwaves, which are then directed towards the targeted area. Depending on the condition being treated, the shockwaves can be focused or radial.
- Energy transmission — The shockwaves penetrate the skin and are absorbed by the tissues, where they create micro-traumas that may stimulate the body’s natural healing processes.
- Cellular response — The energy from the shockwaves increases cell membrane permeability, promotes the release of growth factors and can help the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis). These effects may accelerate tissue repair and regeneration.
Benefits of shockwave therapy
Shockwave therapy is a popular choice for pain relief and rehabilitation as it is non-invasive, has minimal side effects and is quick and convenient.
Non-Invasive treatment
One key benefit of shockwave therapy is its non-invasive nature. Unlike surgical procedures, ESWT does not require incisions or anaesthesia, reducing the risk of complications and infections.
Promotes pain relief
Shockwave therapy may be effective in promoting pain relief. The acoustic waves used in the therapy interact with the tissues to promote regeneration and repair of bones, tendons and other soft tissues. This stimulation can help reduce inflammation and pain, which may offer relief to patients suffering from conditions like plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow and calcific shoulder tendinitis.
Accelerated healing process
The therapy can enhance the body’s natural healing process. The shockwaves increase blood flow to the affected area, which promotes tissue regeneration. This may benefit athletes and active individuals who seek faster recovery from injuries and want to return to their regular activities as soon as possible.
Minimal side effects
Compared to other treatments, shockwave therapy has minimal side effects — some patients might experience mild discomfort or redness temporarily. This minimal risk profile makes ESWT a preferable choice for many patients.
Improvement in mobility and function
By promoting tissue repair and reducing inflammation, shockwave therapy can support a patient’s range of motion. This improvement can bring relief to those suffering from chronic conditions that impede their daily activities and overall quality of life.
Quick and convenient treatment sessions
Treatment sessions for shockwave therapy are typically quick, often lasting about 20 to 30 minutes. This convenience allows patients to fit the therapy into their busy schedules without significant disruption. Moreover, there is no downtime required after the sessions, enabling patients to resume their daily activities immediately.
Long-term benefits
The benefits of shockwave therapy may be long-lasting. Research shows that some patients may show sustained pain relief and improved function months after completing their treatment regimen. This long-term efficacy makes ESWT an attractive option for those looking for solutions to their chronic pain and injuries.
Applications of shockwave therapy
Shockwave therapy can be used to treat several conditions, particularly those involving chronic pain and musculoskeletal disorders. Some common applications include:
Heel spurs
Heel spurs are bony outgrowths located under the heel bone, often associated with chronic pain and discomfort. Shockwave therapy may help to reduce the inflammation and pain caused by heel spurs by promoting blood flow and healing in the affected area.
Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis manifests through swelling of the plantar fascia, a dense strip of tissue located along the underside of the foot. Shockwave therapy may be effective in treating plantar fasciitis, as it may stimulate healing in the plantar fascia and alleviate feelings of pain and stiffness, improving overall foot function.
Achilles tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis involves inflammation and degeneration of the Achilles tendon, which can lead to pain and limited mobility. Shockwave therapy may promote the healing of the Achilles tendon by increasing blood flow and stimulating the production of collagen, which is essential for tendon repair.
Patellar tendonitis
Patellar tendonitis, also known as jumper’s knee, is a condition in which the patellar tendon becomes inflamed due to overuse or injury. Shockwave therapy may help reduce pain and promote healing in the patellar tendon, improving knee function and allowing for a quicker return to physical activities.
Bursitis
Hip bursitis is when small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the hip joint (bursae) become inflamed. Shockwave therapy may help reduce inflammation and pain in the hip bursae, enhancing mobility and overall hip function.
Shin splints
Shin splints typically manifest as discomfort along the inner edge of the shinbone, often resulting from excessive use or continual strain on the lower leg. Shockwave therapy may reduce inflammation and speed up healing in the affected muscles and tissues, providing some relief from the pain associated with shin splints.
Tightened calves
Tightened calves can result from muscle overuse, leading to pain and a limited range of motion. Shockwave therapy may help relax the calf muscles, potentially reducing tightness and promoting better blood circulation, aiding in muscle recovery and pain relief.
Iliotibial band friction syndrome
Iliotibial band friction syndrome (ITBFS) occurs when the iliotibial band becomes irritated due to repetitive friction. Shockwave therapy may be beneficial in treating ITBFS by reducing inflammation and feelings of pain in the iliotibial band and enhancing the flexibility and function of the upper leg.
Lumbar pain
Lumbar pain or lower back pain can be caused by muscle strain, ligament sprain or disc issues. Shockwave therapy may help provide relief from lumbar pain by promoting blood flow and healing in the lower back muscles and tissues, reducing inflammation and pain.
Chronic muscular pain
Chronic muscular pain in the back can result from prolonged muscle tension, injury, or degenerative conditions. Shockwave therapy may help relieve chronic muscular pain by stimulating healing and reducing muscle tightness and inflammation, leading to improved mobility and pain management.
The bottom line on shockwave therapy
Shockwave therapy may offer a multitude of benefits, making it an appealing non-invasive treatment for several conditions. Whether for athletes seeking quick recovery or individuals struggling with chronic pain, shockwave therapy may present a promising path to improved health and quality of life.
Experience the benefits of shockwave therapy in Sydney from Podiatry First
At Podiatry First, we offer a range of shockwave therapy treatments that may help you achieve lasting pain relief and improved mobility. Our experienced therapists are here to assess your condition and offer a personalised treatment plan. Don’t let chronic pain hold you back — contact us today to schedule your consultation for shockwave therapy in Sydney and start your journey toward a pain-free life.
Literature evidence
- Liu K, Zhang Q, Chen L, Zhang H, Xu X, Yuan Z, Dong J. (2023). Efficacy and safety of extracorporeal shockwave therapy in chronic low back pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 632 patients. J Orthop Surg Res, 18: 455.
- Kızıltaş Ö, Okçu M, Tuncay F, Koçak FA. (2022). Comparison of the effectiveness of conventional physical therapy and extracorporeal shock wave therapy on pain, disability, functional status, and depression in patients with chronic low back pain. Turk J Phys Med Rehabil, 68(3): 399-408.
- Jia G, Ma J, Wang S, Wu D, Tan B, Yin Y, Jia L, Cheng L. (2020). Long-term effects of extracorporeal shock wave therapy on poststroke spasticity: a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Journal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases, 29(3), 104591.
- Aleksander-Szymanowicz P, Oleś I, Filar-Mierzwa K, Grapa J, Bac A. (2022). Effect of shock wave therapy on pain and daily functioning in patients with heel spurs. Health Promotion & Physical Activity, 18(1), 24-31.
- Sun K, Zhou H, Jiang W. (2020). Extracorporeal shock wave therapy versus other therapeutic methods for chronic plantar fasciitis. Foot and Ankle Surgery, 26(1), 33-38.
- Maemichi T, Tsutsui T, Okunuki T, Hoshiba T, Kumai T. (2021). Pain relief after extracorporeal shock wave therapy for patellar tendinopathy: an ultrasound evaluation of morphology and blood flow. Appl. Sci., 11, 8748.
- Razie M, Leila K, Saied K. (2021). Shockwave therapy versus dry needling for the management of iliotibial band syndrome: a randomised clinical trial. Galen Med J., 10:1-8.
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