Shockwave Therapy Equipment Is Highly Sophisticated: What Is It

In the realm of innovative physiotherapy treatments, shockwave therapy has emerged as a promising option for various musculoskeletal conditions. This non-invasive procedure utilizes acoustic waves to stimulate healing and alleviate pain. 

In Edmonton, AB, individuals can explore the benefits of shockwave therapy at Turning Point Physical Therapy. Chronic musculoskeletal injuries can be frustrating, leading many to consider surgery as their only hope. 

Fortunately, shockwave therapy offers a non-invasive and innovative modality that holds the potential for resolving stubborn cases of tendon tears, osteoarthritis, muscle pain, and other orthopedic issues. 

How Shockwave Treatment Relieves Chronic Pain

Shockwave therapy utilizes high-frequency acoustic pulses generated from a compact, wand-like device. The sound waves rapidly transmit into targeted spots through the skin and soft tissues. Treatments last under 10 minutes per session.

As these sound waves traverse areas of injury, they create tiny zones of controlled microtrauma deep within tissue. 

This kickstarts natural healing processes, including:  

• Increased blood and nutrient supply to revitalize damaged structures
• Stem cell activation to stimulate tissue regeneration   
• Disruption of scar tissue and adhesive bands causing stiffness/pain 
• Reduction in chronic inflammation contributing to discomfort

Research also indicates shockwave pulses may beneficially alter pain signaling. By reorganizing nerve endings, they can influence how sensation gets interpreted by the brain. Especially for arthritis sufferers, this could mean gaining substantial relief. 

The result is a robust repair response that can finally resolve lingering issues. Damaged tendons, muscles, joints, ligaments, and bones can undergo remodeling to restore structural integrity and function. Pain diminishes as form and flexibility improve.

Conditions That Respond To Shockwave Therapy

There is a wide spectrum of musculoskeletal disorders that may benefit from shockwave therapy. Ongoing research continues to explore additional applications as well.

Tendinopathies

Common sites of painful, degenerated tendons – like tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, patellar tendonitis (jumper’s knee), Achilles tendinosis, and rotator cuff tears – often respond well. Upwards of 75% of cases see positive outcomes. 

Osteoarthritis

Inflammatory arthritis afflicting major joints of hips, knees, shoulders, hands, and spine can improve with shockwave treatment. Lessening discomfort may allow patients to move through daily activities and exercise better.

Myofascial Pain Syndrome 

For muscle tightness and spasms related to trigger points, shockwave therapy can relieve myofascial pain. Neck, shoulder, and back regions plagued by chronic muscular issues benefit the most.  

Bone Healing

When fractures or surgical repairs fail to unite properly, shockwaves may help consolidate the bone ends. Success rates around 80% make it an appealing intervention before drastic measures like bone grafting or re-operation.

Plantar Fasciitis

Stubborn cases of plantar fasciitis – manifesting in acute morning heel pain – can finally subside with shockwave therapy. Surgery may possibly be avoided.

What To Expect During Treatment Sessions 

Today, Shockwave therapy equipment is highly sophisticated – utilizing imaging guidance to target treatment zones accurately. After the application of a water-based conductive gel, a handheld device held to the skin delivers gentle pulses. Patients feel some mild tapping or buzzing sensations.

Focused shockwaves penetrate deeply into areas like tendon insertions at bone or arthritic joint surfaces. Sessions last 5-10 minutes depending upon the condition treated – shorter than getting a haircut! You remain fully clothed as well.  

After the first consultation and assessment, you generally return for 3-6 total shockwave therapy sessions scheduled every 1-2 weeks. Giving the body adequate recovery time between is crucial for maximum response. Progress gets checked periodically to confirm the right treatment track or the need for adjustments.

Combining Other Therapies

Your therapist may advise combining shockwave treatment with therapeutic exercises, manual techniques, taping, or other interventions to achieve optimal outcomes from your care plan. Physiotherapists are experts at such rehabilitative regimens tailored to your situation.

At facilities like Turning Point Physical Therapy in Edmonton, AB shockwave therapy seamlessly integrates with skilled hands-on Physiotherapy in Edmonton for both assessment and follow-up therapy. This ensures precision targeting of your unique pain generator for the best chance of success. 

Recovery Timeframe  

Every condition and patient response varies, but here is a general timeline:

• Most feel some improvement after just 1-2 shockwave sessions
• Three sessions often decrease symptoms substantially 
• Full resolution commonly occurs after 4-6 total treatments
• Some patients may relapse and need maintenance therapy periodically   

Benefits Over Surgery

Utilizing Shockwave Therapy Edmonton early on may preclude eventual surgical interventions – things like tendon repair, joint replacement, bone grafting, heel spur removal, and more invasive measures.

Clinical evidence reveals excellent potential for delaying, reducing the need for, or even avoiding certain operations. Why undergo surgery if a safer and less costly option like shockwave treatment helps resolve the problem?

Seeking Advanced Relief For Musculoskeletal Pain  

If injuries or arthritis hamper your activity level and quality of life, consider exploring shockwave therapy. Today’s focused acoustic pulses offer a better-than-ever ability to treat chronic issues non-invasively.

Rehab specialists like those at Turning Point Physical Therapy in Edmonton, AB, can advise if adding shockwave to your care plan makes sense. Their cutting-edge expertise maximizes your chances for turning the tide on that stubborn case of tendonitis, osteoarthritis, or other nagging orthopedic condition. 

Make an appointment today to learn more about modern shockwave treatment – an innovative solution to finally overcoming chronic musculoskeletal pain!