How does Shockwave Therapy work?
Using a much lower energy than in medical applications, shockwave therapy, or extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), is used in the treatment of many musculoskeletal conditions, primarily those involving connective tissues such as ligaments and tendons. Shockwave therapy sends pressure waves into the site of injury helping to break down calcium deposits in soft tissues as well as stimulating the cells responsible for healing tendons and ligaments. Furthermore, shockwaves stimulate the growth of new blood vessels to the treated area. This explains why shockwave therapy works so well with chronic injuries that have not responded to traditional medical management, such as steroid injections.
Should I consider Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave Therapy is recommended for:
- calcific tendonitis (calcium in tendons)
- plantar fasciitis
- lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow)
- medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow)
Shockwave therapy is commonly used for tendinopathies (commonly referred to as tendinitis), which includes: rotator cuff tendonitis, patellar tendonitis, achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, trigger point therapy, muscle and joint injuries.