Shockwave Therapy
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave is an acoustic wave therapy, which carries high energy to painful spots and musculoskeletal tissues with acute, and chronic conditions. The energy promotes regeneration and reparative processes of the bones, tendons and other soft tissue by restarting the inflammation process the body naturally goes through after an injury. The kinetic energy of the projectile inside the device, created by compressed air, is transferred into the transmitter at the end of the applicator and into the tissue.
Medical Effects:
• Accelerated tissue repair and cell growth
• Pain relief
• New blood vessel formation to aid in the healing process
• Reversal of chronic inflammation
• Stimulation of collagen production
• Release of trigger points
Conditions shockwave treats:
• Jumpers Knee
• Shoulder pain
• Tennis elbow
• Heel spur
• Chronic tendinopathy
• Shin splints
• Hip pain
• Plantar fasciitis
• Muscle tightness
FAQs
What can I expect during my shockwave treatment?
The area to be treated will be examined by the therapist to best determine what protocol is to be used. Then, an ultrasound gel will be placed on the area to allow the acoustic waves to transfer smoothly. Finally, the machine will be turned on to begin the treatment.
Does the treatment hurt?
There may be some discomfort during the treatment, and depending on the condition, certain areas may be slightly painful. The treatment is not too long (typical anywhere from 10-15 minutes) and the intensity can be adjusted. Your therapist will start at the lowest intensity level to make sure that you are tolerating the treatment well.
How many treatments will I need and how long do they last?
This depends on the condition being treated and how your body responds to the treatment. Typically, you should feel some relief after the first treatment, however expect that it will take a few treatments (anywhere from 3-6) to see long lasting results. Each treatment typically lasts between 10-15minutes.
How often do I need treatment?
Most conditions need anywhere from 3-6 treatments spaced between 7-10 days apart.
Is Shockwave therapy covered under my benefits?
If you book shockwave therapy and massage together, it can be billed under your Massage Therapy coverage. Please note, the time to do the shockwave treatment will be included in the total duration of the massage that is booked (ex. if you book a 30minute massage, 10-15minutes of this will be the shockwave therapy with the remainder of the time being massage)
If you choose to do shockwave therapy alone, it can be billed under Athletic Therapy, as the RMT performing this treatment is also our Athletic Therapist. Please check your benefits to see if you are covered for this service.
What can I expect post treatment?
Most clients will have an immediate sense of pain relief, however 2-4 hours after treatment you may experience some soreness. This is not typically long lasting and can be treated by applying ice to the area. It is recommended that you rest the area of treatment for 24-48 hours after as well, to allow the body to go through the process of healing.
For further evidence of the effectiveness of shockwave therapy, please click on the link below to redirect you to a page showing many different articles reviewing shockwave therapy.