Shockwave Therapy
WHAT IS SHOCKWAVE THERAPY?
Shockwave therapy is low-frequency acoustic waves used to instigate a healing response within the body. Essentially, the therapy increases blood flow to the targeted area. The blood brings with it all the nutrients and other components that are necessary for effective healing of injured muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
The use of shockwaves in medicine began in the 1960s, and since then, they have become a go-to treatment for many patients who are struggling with issues like frozen shoulder, plantar fasciitis, sports injuries, and more.
During an ESWT session, our team will apply a gel to your skin at the targeted area. Then, we will use a wand-like device (similar to an ultrasound wand) to begin delivering shockwaves. We will gradually increase the strength of the shockwaves until a therapeutic level is reached, or to a level that you can tolerate without too much difficulty.
Shockwave therapy can be mildly uncomfortable. It may feel like a continual tapping or knocking sensation. However, it should not cause extreme pain. In fact, many patients notice a reduction in pain soon after their first session, though it may take several sessions in order to experience optimum results. Each treatment is likely to take less than 15 minutes.
It can help stubborn cases. Shockwave therapy has proven beneficial for patients who have not responded well to traditional treatments (such as NSAIDs and physical therapy) for issues like plantar fasciitis and tennis elbow.
There are minimal side effects. You might notice some minor bruising, swelling, and discomfort at the treatment site, but severe side effects are almost unheard of.
Common Conditions Responding to Shockwave Therapy
If you are experiencing chronic or acute muscle and joint pain, you may find great relief from Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), also known as shockwave therapy. While this treatment is advanced and effective, it's normal to have questions. Dr. Hall and our team have compiled a list of frequently asked questions about shockwave therapy in the Chattanooga, north Georgia area.
During an ESWT session, our team will apply a gel to your skin at the targeted area. Then, we will use a wand-like device (similar to an ultrasound wand) to begin delivering shockwaves. We will gradually increase the strength of the shockwaves until a therapeutic level is reached, or to a level that you can tolerate without too much difficulty.
Shockwave therapy was initially introduced as a way to break down kidney stones without direct contact. It then evolved to treat non-healing bones by activating osteoblasts. Today it treats a wide range of medical conditions, including:
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Plantar fasciitis
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Bursitis
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Stiff big toe (hallux rigidus)
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Achilles tendinopathy
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Jumper’s knee (patellar tendonitis)
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Hamstring muscle injuries
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Lower extremities
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Upper extremities
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Non-healing ulcers
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Broken bones that have failed to heal (nonunions)
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Muscle and connective tissue injuries
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Tendonitis
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Scar tissue
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Enhancing bone healing
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Stress fractures
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Calcific tendonitis of the rotator cuff
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Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
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Shoulder pain
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Tennis elbow
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Myofascial Trigger Points
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Heel spurs
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Shin splints
Why Consider Non-Invasive Shockwave Therapy?
The ESWT treatment has a tried and tested success rate that is equal to or beyond that of more traditional methods, including surgery!
The shockwave process doesn’t involve the risks, complications, or lengthy recovery time that usually comes with a more extensive procedure. Other advantages of ESWT over surgical treatments include:
Thanks to our advanced and reliable equipment, many patients claim to immediately experience pain relief after finishing their treatment. However, it can sometimes take about four weeks for some people to begin to feel the results of their procedure. Due to the pressure waves that promote improved blood circulation and stimulate metabolism, the process generally alleviates discomfort and renews your mobility, enhancing your overall well-being. Over 80% of shockwave therapy patients claim to feel pain-free and/or experience drastically reduced pain.