Does Shockwave Therapy Hurt? Shockwave Therapy: Meaning, Benefits, & Treatment

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In real life, powerful energy that goes through a human being gives rise to a superhero, But in real life, powerful energy that goes through the human body heals. Well,  shockwave therapy is the new superhero of medical treatment. Hearing the word ‘shockwave’ may make you feel uneasy at times.

But,  shockwave therapy is a new advancement in the medical field that can heal your pain like never before. Let’s explore shockwave therapy, and how these waves work their magic.  

The Marvels Of Shockwave Therapy

Since the human body can heal tissue damage itself. Regenerative medicines work by stimulating the growth of new tissues in the injured area. Shockwave therapy is a type of regenerative medicine that can unleash the healing wave to restore vitality to your body which has been reduced due to aging, diseases, and damage caused to the tissues. 

The Marvels Of Shockwave Therapy

What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that is commonly used to treat sports injuries. Shockwave therapy offers extra stimulation to the body’s healing process. 

How Does Shock Therapy Work? 

Shockwave therapy or extracorporeal pulse activation technology (EPAT) helps to reduce pain and accelerate the healing process of injured tendons, ligaments, and tissues.

A shockwave therapy device sends shockwaves into damaged tissues during the procedure. These shockwaves can stimulate increased blood flow and growth of tissues. Ultimately, shockwaves speed up the healing process. There will be a physician to supervise your session. One session may take up to 20 to 30 minutes. You may require multiple sessions in several weeks to get a complete cure. 

Even though the name Shockwave therapy seems to resonate with torture, it is not usually a painful treatment. Patients feel no pain during the treatment procedures. Slight discomfort may occur if the tissue damage is close to the bone. Apart from that,  most times shockwave therapy is a painless treatment. 

Types Of Shock Wave Therapy

There are two types of therapy offered to the patients depending on the type of injury. Generally, the majority of the patients receive both of these treatments. 

Radial Shockwave Therapy: Radial shock waves are used to treat injuries by applying them all over the local area. 

Focused Shockwave Therapy: Focused shockwaves are applied to specific points. If the damaged tissues are deeper into the body. Focused shockwave therapy is the best option.

What Are The Types Of Injuries Treated With Shockwave Therapy? 

Shockwave therapy is generally prescribed for sports injuries. It can offer quick relief for athletes. Shockwave therapy offers relief for injuries like, 

  • Achilles’ Tendinopathy And Plantar Fasciitis
  • Patella Retinopathy
  • Hamstring Injuries
  • Lateral Hip Pain
  • Shoulder Pain
  • Hip Pain
  • Other Conditions That Need Physiotherapy 

In summary, shockwave therapy works for almost all types of sports injuries. Shockwaves can also heal secondary damage caused by orthopedic surgeries. 

Read More:- What Is The Difference Between A Splint And A Brace? Exploring The Facts

What Are The Benefits Of Shockwave Therapy? 

Injured patients undergoing treatment get shockwave therapy along with other types of therapies. Studies about the effectiveness of shockwave therapy are limited. However, based on the available data, shockwave treatment has the following benefits:

  • Trigger points in areas like the neck, back, shoulder, and limbs may cause pain at times. Shockwaves can release these trigger points and reduce pain. 
  • Calcium build-up in the tendon due to injury can lead to severe pain. Shockwave therapy can shatter calcium buildup. 
  • Substance P in your body is associated with inflammation and pain. Shockwave therapy can lower substance P and offer pain relief. 
  • Shockwave therapy can increase blood supply into the injured area and speed up the healing process. 
  • It can help tendon fibers firm up by speeding up the generation of collagen.
  • Shockwave therapy offers long-lasting relief from chronic pain. 
  • It is a safe way of treating injuries and pain. 

Read More:- Is Physiotherapy Good For Disk Bulging? Disc Bulge Physiotherapy Exercises

Conclusion 

Shockwave therapy is revolutionizing the field of healthcare. It stimulates tissue growth and shatters pain. A wide range of applications for shock wave therapy. It ranges from chronic pain to musculoskeletal issues. Shockwave therapy is bringing far-reaching changes in the medical field.

It is thus a non-invasive treatment and a valuable option for patients looking for alternative ways to treat injuries and chronic pain. However, you need to seek an expert opinion before moving forward with the shockwave therapy option.

Only a healthcare professional can determine whether you need shockwave therapy is the right option for you. 

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Dr. David G Kiely is a distinguished Medical Reviewer and former General Medicine Consultant with a wealth of experience in the field. Dr. Kiely's notable career as a General Medicine Consultant highlights his significant contributions to the medical field.

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