05/13/2023
Some people have been wondering about shockwave therapy and how it works and what it will treat. Here is a little about shockwave therapy how it works and what it will treat. Sorry for the long post but people have been asking so here it is:
Focused shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive medical treatment that utilizes acoustic waves to stimulate the body's natural healing processes. The therapy involves delivering high-energy sound waves to specific areas of the body, generating mechanical pressure and promoting tissue repair.
Here's a general overview of how focused shockwave therapy works:
1. Application: A specialized device is used to deliver acoustic waves to the target area. The device consists of a handpiece that contains the shockwave generator, which emits the waves.
2. Shockwave generation: The handpiece delivers rapid and focused bursts of acoustic energy. The shockwaves are created by compressed air or electromagnetic systems, depending on the type of device being used.
3. Targeting the affected area: The healthcare provider guides the handpiece to the precise location where treatment is needed. This ensures that the shockwaves are concentrated on the specific region requiring therapy.
4. Mechanical effects: The shockwaves create a mechanical force that penetrates into the tissues. The intensity of the shockwaves can be adjusted based on the individual's needs and the condition being treated.
5. Biological response: The shockwaves trigger a series of biological responses in the targeted tissues. They stimulate blood circulation, promote the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), and enhance the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the area.
6. Tissue regeneration: Focused shockwave therapy promotes the production of collagen, a crucial component of connective tissue. Collagen helps in the healing process and the remodeling of damaged tissues. The therapy also stimulates cellular activity, which aids in tissue repair and regeneration.
Here are the specific pathways to treatment:
➢ Activation of endogenous growth factors (e.g., BNDF, BMP, FGF-2, IGF-2, NO, PCNA, PLGF, TGF-8, VEGFs)
➢ Induction of stem cell proliferation and migration
➢ Stimulation of neovascularization and angiogenesis
➢ Enhanced blood circulation and cell metabolism
➢ Reduced cell apoptosis and tissue necrosis
➢ Stimulation of the catabolism and the natural anabolic growth function of tissues (blood and lymphatic vessels, skin, connective tissue, bones, cartilage, tendons, joints, smooth and striated muscles, nerves, etc.)
➢ Promotion of tissue remodeling and regeneration
Focused shockwave therapy has been used to treat various musculoskeletal conditions, including:
1. Plantar fasciitis: A common condition that causes heel pain due to inflammation of the plantar fascia ligament.
2. Achilles tendinopathy: A degenerative condition affecting the Achilles tendon, causing pain and reduced function.
3. Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis): An overuse injury causing pain and inflammation on the outer side of the elbow.
4. Rotator cuff tendinopathy: A condition characterized by inflammation or degeneration of the tendons in the shoulder.
5. Patellar tendinopathy (jumper's knee): An injury that affects the patellar tendon, causing pain and swelling in the knee.
6. Calcific tendinitis: The formation of calcium deposits in tendons, leading to pain and limited mobility.
7. Myofascial trigger points: Localized areas of muscle tightness and sensitivity, often causing pain and discomfort.
It's important to note that focused shockwave therapy may not be suitable for everyone and should be performed by a trained healthcare professional. The specific treatment protocol, number of sessions, and expected outcomes can vary depending on the condition being treated and individual factors. At Shockewave Therapy Clinic Vancouver Island, our Registered nurses will assess your condition and if needed will consult with your family doctor or nurse practitioner to ensure it is safe to proceed with treatment. Book your appointment on line now at https://fix-ed.janeapp.com/