What is Shockwave Therapy
Radial shockwave therapy is a series of energetic shockwaves applied to the area that needs treatment.
The treatment initiates an inflammation-like condition (pro inflammatory) in the tissue that is being treated. The body responds by increasing the blood circulation and metabolism in the impact area which in turn accelerates the body’s own healing processes. The shockwaves breakdown injured tissue and calcifications.
Shock waves are single, mainly positive pressure pulses that are followed by comparatively small tensile wave components. A shockwave is a purely mechanical wave not an electrical one.
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive, non-surgical treatment, but you might feel a little pain or discomfort in the treatment area during the procedure. After the treatment, you may experience temporary soreness, tenderness or swelling for a few days following the procedure, as the shockwaves stimulate an inflammatory response. This is the body healing itself naturally.
Shockwave treatment is usually done once a week for 3-6 weeks, depending on results. The treatment itself can cause mild discomfort, but it only last 4-5 minutes, and the intensity can be adjusted to keep it comfortable. Most patients say it feels like small pulses against the skin. Dr. Qais Janmohamed may be able to adjust the way he uses the shockwave device if your pain is significant.
Patients can feel significant results after the first treatment. Some patients will not feel a difference until finishing their recommended course of care. The healing process is accumulative and therefore patients continue to have results weeks after ending their treatment. Because the cells are broken down and are rebuilding (they actually are put back into the acute phase) the maximum relief is usually felt at the 12th week after their last treatment.
Shockwave therapy represents an innovative method for the treatment of various musculoskeletal diseases especially when other conservative methods of therapy have failed. This type of therapy is considered safe, non-invasive, low cost and without the dangers of the surgical procedure and postoperative pain.
Shockwave therapy should not be used, with the following conditions:
- Vascular diseases that exist in or near the area of treatment.
- Infections in the treatment area.
- Around malignant or benign tumors.
- Directly on cartilage surfaces or near the small facet joints of the spinal column.
- Directly over implanted electronic devices such as pacemakers, analgesic pumps.