Shock wave therapy is non-invasive and involves the creation of pulsations of low energy acoustic waves. These waves are applied directly to the injury using a gel medium on the patient’s skin. The technology and concept originated when the discovery was made that gallstones and kidney stones could be broken down using sound waves. Scientific studies have proven shock waves can be successfully used to treat numerous chronic conditions.
Shock wave therapy is used to treat pain caused by an illness or a lingering injury. This therapy eliminates the need for painkiller by triggering the natural healing response of the body. Many individuals have reported an improvement in mobility and a decrease in pain after one to two treatments. This modality is commonly used in physiotherapy, but the energy is much lower than for medical applications. This therapy is used to treat numerous musculoskeletal conditions involving connective tissues including tendons and ligaments.
Shock wave therapy is a good tool for chronic and stubborn tendinopathy. Certain tendon conditions will not respond to the more traditional treatments. This type of therapy provides another option for physiotherapists. This treatment is suitable for individuals who have had chronic tendinitis for more than six weeks and have not responded to other treatments. These conditions include tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, achilles, jumper’s knee, rotator cuff and calcific tendinitis of the shoulder.
The individual is assessed during their first visit to ensure they are a good candidate for this treatment. The individual will be educated regarding their condition and what is possible with treatment, specific exercises and activity modification. Any other contributing issues including a weakness or tightness of muscle groups and posture is also considered.
The Conditions Treated by Shock Wave Therapy
Shock wave therapy is effective for treating the following conditions:
- Feet – Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis and heel spurs
- Knee – Patellar tendonitis
- Shoulder – calcific tendinosis
- Upper leg – Iliotibial band friction
- Elbow – golfer and tennis elbow
- Hip – bursitis
- Back pain – chronic muscular pain and cervical and lumbar spine regions
- Lower leg – shin splints
There are a wide variety of benefits to this therapy. No drugs or anesthesia are required, the therapy is cost effective, non-invasive and a good option for pain in the back, elbow, shoulder, knee and heel. This treatment is being used for sports medicine, rehabilitation and orthopedics. Research has shown the impact on acute pain is positive. The treatment enables the body to heal naturally. Once the treatment has been completed, the individual can resume their normal daily activities almost immediately.
If you are interested in learning more or finding out if you are a good candidate for shock wave therapy at The Guyer Institute of Molecular Medicine in Indianapolis, please contact us today to schedule your personal consultation!
