How Shockwave Therapy Can Help Relieve Chronic Pain

How Shockwave Therapy Can Help Relieve Chronic Pain

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive, non-surgical treatment modality that has been used for many years to treat a variety of musculoskeletal disorders. Shockwave therapy utilizes high-intensity sound waves that are directed at the affected area of the body. These sound waves cause microtrauma to the affected tissues, which initiates a healing response within the body. This healing response can lead to a reduction in pain and an improvement in mobility and function.

The sound waves used in shockwave therapy are created using a specialized device that is held against the skin. The device produces high-intensity sound waves that are directed at the affected area of the body. The sound waves are delivered in short bursts, which last for several minutes. During the treatment, the patient may feel a mild to moderate level of discomfort, but the discomfort should not be severe.

There are two types of shockwave therapy: radial and focused. Radial shockwave therapy uses a lower intensity sound wave that is spread out over a larger area. Focused shockwave therapy uses a higher intensity sound wave that is focused on a smaller area. Both types of shockwave therapy can be effective in treating musculoskeletal disorders, but they are used for different indications.

Shockwave therapy works by inducing a healing response in the body. The high-intensity sound waves create microtrauma within the affected tissues, which triggers an inflammatory response. This inflammatory response leads to the production of growth factors, which stimulate the healing process within the body.

The microtrauma created by the sound waves also causes an increase in blood flow to the affected area. This increased blood flow can help to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the damaged tissues, which can aid in the healing process.

Shockwave therapy has been used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal disorders, including tendinopathies, plantar fasciitis, and chronic pain. Tendinopathies are a type of injury that affects the tendons, which are the fibrous tissues that connect muscles to bones. Tendinopathies can be caused by overuse, repetitive motions, or trauma. Shockwave therapy has been shown to be effective in the treatment of tendinopathies by promoting the healing of the affected tissues.

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that affects the plantar fascia, which is the fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. Plantar fasciitis can cause severe pain and discomfort, and it can be difficult to treat. Shockwave therapy has been shown to be effective in the treatment of plantar fasciitis by promoting the healing of the affected tissues.

Chronic pain is a common condition that can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, disease, and inflammation. Shockwave therapy has been shown to be effective in the treatment of chronic pain by reducing inflammation and promoting the healing of the affected tissues.

How physiotherapists use shockwave therapy to treat musculoskeletal disorders

A physiotherapist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. Physiotherapists can provide a range of treatment modalities to help patients recover from injuries and improve their mobility and function. One treatment modality that physiotherapists may use is shockwave therapy.

Physiotherapists may use shockwave therapy to treat a variety of musculoskeletal disorders, including tendinopathies, plantar fasciitis, and chronic pain. When a patient presents with one of these conditions, the physiotherapist will conduct a thorough assessment to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. If shockwave therapy is deemed appropriate, the physiotherapist will explain the treatment process and what to expect during and after the treatment.

During a shockwave therapy session, the physiotherapist will use a specialized device to direct high-intensity sound waves at the affected area of the body. The sound waves create microtrauma within the affected tissues, which stimulates the healing process. The physiotherapist may adjust the intensity of the sound waves based on the patient’s tolerance level.

After the shockwave therapy session, the physiotherapist may provide additional treatments to help promote healing and reduce pain. These treatments may include massage, stretching, or exercises. The physiotherapist will work with the patient to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their specific needs and goals.

One of the advantages of working with a physiotherapist for shockwave therapy is that the physiotherapist can provide a comprehensive treatment plan. In addition to shockwave therapy, the physiotherapist can provide other treatments that may be beneficial, such as manual therapy, acupuncture, or ultrasound therapy. By combining different treatment modalities, the physiotherapist can help the patient achieve optimal results.

Another advantage of working with a physiotherapist for shockwave therapy is that the physiotherapist can provide guidance and support throughout the treatment process. The physiotherapist can answer any questions the patient may have about the treatment and can provide education on how to manage their condition outside of the clinic. The physiotherapist can also monitor the patient’s progress and make adjustments to the treatment plan as needed.

In addition to providing treatment, physiotherapists can also help prevent musculoskeletal disorders from occurring or recurring. Physiotherapists can provide education on proper posture, body mechanics, and exercise techniques to help reduce the risk of injury. They can also provide ergonomic assessments for workplaces and sports activities to identify potential risk factors.

Overall, working with a physiotherapist for shockwave therapy can be an effective way to treat musculoskeletal disorders and improve mobility and function. Physiotherapists can provide a range of treatments to help patients achieve optimal results, and they can also provide education and support throughout the treatment process. If you are experiencing a musculoskeletal disorder, consider working with a physiotherapist to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs and goals.

Book Your BACK NECK SHOULDER KNEE ELBOW HIP WRIST FOOT Pain Consult

This appointment is your opportunity to tell us what hurts and discover whether physiotherapy or chiropractic care is a good fit for you! During this session, you will talk with a physiotherapist or chiropractor on a phone call (or online) and create the right care plan specifically for your pain. There is no obligation on this session is to find out whether physiotherapy or chiropractic care can help you getting back to doing the things you love in life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Shockwave therapy typically results in long-term relief of symptoms, with most patients experiencing relief for 6-12 months. However, some patients may need additional treatments to maintain their results.

Shockwave therapy is not recommended for pregnant women, people with a history of kidney stones, and those who have had chemotherapy or radiation therapy in the area to be treated. Additionally, patients with certain medical conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, or any other severe condition, should speak with their healthcare provider prior to undergoing shockwave therapy.

After shockwave therapy, it is important to avoid strenuous activities and high-impact activities, such as running, for at least 48 hours. Additionally, patients should avoid taking hot baths or swimming for 48 hours after treatment.



About Tony Magliocco

Dr. Magliocco has spent over 25 years refining his skills in Chiropractic, Acupuncture, and Rehabilitation Sciences. He has a special interest in modern approaches to Acupuncture. He has been teaching to other health professionals for over 20  years as a Senior Clinical Instructor of McMaster University’s Contemporary Medical Acupuncture course.

Medical Disclaimer:

The information presented in this blog post is for educational purposes and should not be interpreted as medical advice. If you are seeking medical advice, treatment or a diagnosis, consult with a medical professional such as one suggested on this website. The Clinic Accelerator Inc. and the author of this page are not liable for the associated risks of using or acting upon the information contained in this article.

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