Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT)

Focused Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (also known as ESWT) also known as Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) works by delivering acoustic waves directly to the area triggering pain. This technology was initially developed to break up kidney stones during lithotripsy, but research shows that many orthopedic injuries improve with ESWT.

This non-invasive procedure does not involve needles or surgery and results are seen within only a few treatments. The device delivers shock waves that are precise and targeted through a handheld wand. Deep tissues can be reached and there are no significant adverse effects. ESWT is a fantastic alternative to pain medication with some patients experiencing relief after the first visit.

The therapy isn’t new, but its use in the treatment of painful joints and muscles is a relatively recent development. Shockwave therapy was originally developed to help urologists treat kidney stones non-invasively. Now it’s successfully used to help treat many musculoskeletal conditions.

Multiple scientific papers have found that it can successfully treat conditions such as heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendinopathy.

There are no known side effects to having shockwave therapy.

How does Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) work and reduce pain?

Shock waves are high-energy acoustic waves. These waves are delivered directly onto the skin that covers the affected area. This kind of pain relief therapy uses low-energy sound, or acoustic, waves, rather than electrical waves. The waves easily penetrate the skin and radiate as a shockwave throughout the affected muscle, joint or tendon. Shockwave therapy is therefore a targeted type of therapy, only treating the areas that are injured or damaged.

When you go for shockwave treatment, your Doctor will use a handheld device connected to a machine that turns into sound waves. They’ll apply some light pressure and move the device over the area that requires treatment. Ultrasound gel is applied to the skin beforehand to help transmit the shockwaves through the skin. Call (508) 481-1133

What conditions does Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) treat?

Radial Shock Wave Therapy is indicated by the FDA as a non-invasive treatment option for patients with painful soft tissue (muscle, tendons and ligaments), joint and bone conditions. The therapy can help those with sports or overuse injuries and can benefit those undergoing physiotherapy for a range of complaints.

Shockwave Therapy is used to help treat the following conditions:
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How many treatments will I need?

Generally, three (3) to six (6) sessions are necessary at weekly intervals. Treatment sessions take approximately 5-10 minutes depending on the type of problem area that is being treated.

What are the possible side effects/complications?

The non-invasive ESWT treatment has virtually no risks or side effects. In some cases, patients may experience slight discomfort which may continue for a few days in extremely sensitive areas. Patients may experience bruising, swelling, or redness of the skin over the treatment area. Contraindications to ESWT include bleeding disorders, active malignancy, and pregnancy.

Benefits of ESWT