You may have heard of a treatment that uses sound waves to heal pain in the body. That’s Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT). It is a genius way to relieve pain! This innovative approach has been gaining traction lately. It is a non-invasive solution that works great for various musculoskeletal issues.
Shockwave therapy machines are used in the therapy. These machines are designed to deliver targeted acoustic pulses. This promotes healing and pain relief. No matter whether you have been experiencing chronic tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, ESWT can help. If you are someone looking to manage pain without resorting to surgery, try this therapy.
What is Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy?
If you are new to this, you may wonder what is shockwave therapy or what is acoustic wave therapy. It is nothing but a non-surgical treatment option to get relief from chronic pain.
The extracorporeal shock therapy uses sound waves to heal your body. That's what ESWT is all about. In the technique, a shockwave therapy machine is used to deliver targeted pulses of acoustic energy. These shock waves travel through your skin and tissues to reach the targeted area of pain or injury.
The concept - what does shockwave therapy do - may not still be clear to you. Simply put, what ESWT does is it stimulates the body's natural healing mechanisms. The shockwaves create microscopic disruptions within the targeted tissue. This might sound counterintuitive, but it triggers a series of positive events. Your body responds by sending increased blood flow to the area. This promotes the growth of new blood vessels and encourages tissue repair. This process can significantly reduce pain and inflammation, ultimately aiding the healing process.
How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?
ESWT's effectiveness lies in its unique ability to harness the power of sound waves. But how exactly does it translate into healing? Let's delve deeper!
How Does It Generate Pressure Waves:
Shockwave therapy machines typically use compressed air to generate acoustic waves. Inside the device, a projectile is accelerated within a chamber using compressed air. When this projectile strikes a designated point, it creates a powerful pulse of energy that travels as a pressure wave.
Administering the Treatment:
The shockwaves are transmitted through a handheld applicator placed directly on your skin over the targeted area. This ensures a safe and non-invasive treatment approach.
A Typical Session and Patient Expectations:
Shockwave treatments are generally brief, lasting around 15 minutes. During the session, you might feel a tapping or tingling sensation as the waves penetrate your tissues. The discomfort is usually manageable, and a topical anesthetic cream can be applied to further reduce any sensation.
Important Pointers:
The number of sessions required and the treatment frequency will vary depending on the specific condition being addressed.
Consult with a healthcare professional to determine if shockwave therapy is the right course of treatment for you.
What Is Shockwave Therapy Used For
ESWT's versatility makes it a valuable tool for addressing a range of conditions. While ED treatment (Erectile Dysfunction) is not currently an approved use, shockwave therapy can heal various parts of the body.
Here are some of its common applications:
Musculoskeletal Conditions: ESWT is particularly effective in treating chronic pain and inflammation in tendons, ligaments, and muscles. Conditions like plantar fasciitis, a painful inflammation of the heel tissue, and tennis elbow can experience significant relief.
Enhanced Blood Flow: ESWT creates microscopic disruptions in the affected area. This triggers the body's natural healing response, leading to an increased blood flow. This improved circulation delivers essential nutrients and oxygen to the injured tissues. This, in turn, accelerates the healing process and reduces inflammation.
Breaking Down Deposits: In some cases, ESWT can even be used to break down deposits that contribute to pain. For instance, some studies have shown its potential effectiveness in fragmenting kidney stones. This makes them easier to pass naturally.
Note: Insurance plans may not always cover shockwave therapy. Discussing this aspect with your healthcare provider beforehand is crucial.
Benefits and Potential Side Effects of Shockwave Therapy
Many patients experience pain relief after undergoing treatment. The shock waves can help break down chronic inflammation. Additionally, ESWT can accelerate the body's natural healing process, leading to a faster recovery time.
Since it is non-invasive, ESWT is a preferred alternative to surgery. There is no need for anesthesia or incisions, making it a more convenient option for many people.
Some patients might experience mild discomfort or temporary swelling in the treated part of the body. These side effects are usually minor and resolve on their own within a few days. Always discuss any concerns you have with your healthcare provider before starting shock wave therapy.
Conclusion
ESWT is a promising physical therapy. Patients love the fact that it harnesses the power of pressure waves to promote healing and pain relief. From chronic tendonitis to plantar fasciitis, ESWT provides a valuable alternative to invasive treatments.
If you are experiencing pain and are curious if ESWT might be a good fit for you, consult with a healthcare professional. They are the right ones to seek help from when you are not sure if ESWT is suitable for you.
FAQs
What are the negative side effects of shockwave therapy?
While generally safe, ESWT can cause some temporary discomfort or swelling in the treated area. Serious side effects are rare.
Is shock wave therapy painful?
You might feel a tapping or tingling sensation during treatment, but it is usually manageable. Topical numbing cream can further minimize discomfort.
What are the 2 types of shockwave therapy?
There are two main types: focused shockwave therapy and radial shockwave therapy. They differ in how the shock waves are generated and delivered.
Who should not use shockwave therapy?
ESWT may not be suitable for everyone. People with certain medical conditions, pregnant women, and those with poor circulation in the affected area might not be good candidates. Consulting a healthcare professional is crucial to determine if ESWT is safe for you.
