Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate healing in injured or painful tissues. Originally developed for breaking up kidney stones, it’s now widely used in orthopedics, sports medicine, podiatry, and chiropractic care.
How It Works
- The device delivers focused shockwaves to the affected area.
- These waves promote increased blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and stimulate collagen production and cellular repair.
- It also helps break down calcifications and scar tissue.
Conditions Shockwave Therapy Can Help With
Musculoskeletal & Orthopedic Conditions:
- Plantar fasciitis (heel pain)
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Patellar tendinitis (jumper’s knee)
- Shoulder tendinitis (especially calcific)
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
- Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis)
- Shin splints
- Hip bursitis
- IT band syndrome
- Myofascial trigger points
- Chronic neck or back pain related to muscle tension or tightness
Spine-Related Pain (commonly seen in chiropractic care):
- Facet joint pain
- Chronic low back pain
- Sacral or SI joint dysfunction
- Degenerative disc disease (to some extent)
Other Applications:
- Delayed bone healing or non-union fractures
- Scar tissue breakdown
- Improved range of motion and muscle relaxation
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy
- Non-invasive, no injections or surgery
- No downtime—patients can often return to normal activity quickly
- Minimal side effects
- Often used in combination with MLS laser therapy or spinal decompression for enhanced results
