What Is Shockwave Therapy?
People looking for noninvasive therapies for soft-tissue pain are increasingly discovering shockwave treatments. By delivering waves directly to the injured area, this FDA-approved therapy promotes the body’s own natural healing mechanisms. If you’re experiencing slower-than-desired healing from an injury or strain, this is an option you may want to explore when consulting with a chiropractor about available treatment options. Dr. Trent Artichoker is delighted to be able to offer this treatment for our patients here at Denver Chiropractic. Find out more about why so many patients here at our Colorado office are finding relief with this therapy.
How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?
During treatment, fast-traveling shockwaves are released directly into the area where you’re experiencing pain. These waves instantly begin to stimulate blood flow and circulation to ramp up the healing process. One of the reasons why shockwave treatments are commonly used for foot conditions like plantar fasciitis is that this therapy is effective at promoting blood flow in areas of the body that tend to have reduced circulation. For patients, there is an opportunity to stimulate cell production for healing and regrowth in both bone and connective tissue. As noted by the Mayo Clinic, “multiple high-quality randomized clinical trials have provided substantial evidence that ESWT is a safe and effective non-invasive option for treating tendinopathy throughout the musculoskeletal system.”
Who Should Get Shockwave Treatments?
Considered very gentle and safe, shockwave treatments can be ideal for anyone dealing with musculoskeletal pain or injury. In particular, this therapy is lauded as a top treatment for plantar fasciitis. It is also commonly used to stimulate healing in people suffering from:
- Achilles tendinopathy.
- Calcific tendonitis.
- Patellar tendinosis.
- Tennis elbow.
- Rotator-cuff injuries.
In sports medicine, shockwave treatments can be desirable for athletes with injuries that are not responding strongly to baseline treatments like icing, resting, bracing, or special exercises prior to considering surgery. Additionally, people with pain and injuries caused by repetitive movements or strain can benefit from this treatment. In studies, patients have seen an improvement in functionality and quality of life after shockwave treatment.
What Does Shockwave Treatment Feel Like?
For patients, shockwave therapy typically feels like a very “uneventful” experience. While you may experience some slight discomfort as the wand is used, this treatment does not generally cause pain. A complete session often takes less than 30 minutes. Patients are able to resume normal activities with no downtime following a treatment.
Why Is Shockwave Treatment for Pain a Good Option?
The answer is really twofold. Many patients find that the waves create immediate pain relief. This is great for anyone who has grown frustrated with unrelenting aches, pains, and loss of function in a particular area of their body. Additionally, the cellular stimulation that occurs during treatment creates long-term healing benefits.
See a Chiropractor for Pain Treatment in Denver, Colorado
Dr. Trent Artichoker and his team will be more than happy to help you determine if this treatment is right for you if you’re dealing with pain by going over your medical history, current treatment plan, and goals for healing. For more information about shockwave therapy, *contact Denver Chiropractic* or *book your appointment* today!