What is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that involves creating a series of low energy acoustic wave pulses that are directly applied to an injury through a person’s skin. The concept and technology originally evolved from the discovery that focused sound waves were capable of breaking down kidney stones and gallstones. This technology is now used at PhysioHouse to trigger the body’s own natural healing response.
Shockwave therapy has shown to effectively treat the following conditions:
- Feet - heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis
- Elbow – tennis and golfers elbow
- Shoulder - calcific tendinosis of rotator cuff muscles
- Knee - patellar tendonitis
- Hip – bursitis
- Lower leg - shin splints
- Upper leg - Iliotibial band friction syndrome
- Back pain - lumbar and cervical spine regions and chronic muscular pain
Many people report that their pain is reduced and mobility improved after the first treatment!
Your first Shockwave Treatment: What to expect
Upon your first visit at PhysioHouse, you will be assessed by a physiotherapist to confirm that you are an appropriate candidate for shockwave therapy. The physiotherapist will ensure you are educated about your condition and what you can do in conjunction with treatment - activity modification, specific exercises, assessing any other contributing issues such as posture, tightness/weakness of other muscle groups etc.
Shockwave treatment is usually done 1 time a week for 4-6 weeks, depending on results. The treatment itself can cause mild discomfort, but it only last 4-5 minutes, and the intensity can be adjusted to keep you comfortable.
Are there any side effects with Shockwave Therapy?
After Shockwave treatment, you may experience temporary soreness, tenderness or swelling for a few days following the procedure, as the shockwaves stimulate an inflammatory response. This is a natural response as the body begins to heal itself naturally. Anti-inflammatory medication should be avoided after treatment as they may slow down the healing process. Upon completion of your treatment you can return to most regular activities almost immediately.
Who should avoid Shockwave Therapy?
Avoid Shockwave therapy if you have a circulation or nerve disorder, infection, bone tumor, or a metabolic bone condition. Shockwave therapy should also not be used if there are any open wounds or tumors or if you are pregnant. People using blood-thinning medications or who have severe circulatory disorders may also not be eligible for treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about Shockwave therapy the physiotherapist will be happy to discuss them with you within the clinic.