SHOCKWAVE THERAPY
At Spring Physical Therapy we use a Stoltz Shockwave therapy machine which has proven to be the best on the market for maximum results.
What is shockwave therapy and what does it do?
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that stimulates the body’s natural healing process. It can relieve pain and promote healing of injured tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissues. It accomplishes this by releasing growth factors in the injured tissue.
Shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), offers several benefits for various musculoskeletal conditions. This modality is commonly used by the doctors and physical therapists at Spring Physical Therapy as it helps aid in speeding up the rehabilitation and recovery process. This modality is used only 1 x week for 3 weeks while the PT performs all other stretches, manual therapies and strengthening protocols.
Shockwave therapy is known as a type of regenerative medicine (also known as an orthobiologic therapy). It is used to treat tendinopathy as well as difficult-to-heal ligament injuries. Some degenerative tendinopathies have an associated buildup of calcium in the tendon. Focused shock waves can break those deposits up.
What is shockwave therapy best for?
- Common conditions
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendonitis
- Elbow tendonitis.
- Shoulder tendonitis
- Rotator cuff tear
- Knee sprains
- Knee strains
- Ankle sprains
What are 10 benefits of shockwave therapy?
1. Pain relief: Shockwave therapy effectively reduces pain by disrupting pain signals, increasing blood flow, and stimulating the release of endorphins, natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body.
2. Accelerated tissue healing: Shockwave therapy promotes tissue regeneration and repair by stimulating the production of collagen, a key component of tendons, ligaments, and connective tissue, leading to faster healing of injuries and chronic conditions.
3. Improved blood circulation: Shockwave therapy enhances blood circulation to the affected area, increasing oxygen and nutrient delivery while removing metabolic waste products, which aids in tissue repair and recovery.
4. Reduction of inflammation: Shockwave therapy helps decrease inflammation by modulating inflammatory cytokines and promoting the resolution of inflammatory processes, alleviating symptoms of conditions such as tendonitis and bursitis.
5. Breakdown of scar tissue: Shockwave therapy breaks down scar tissue and adhesions within soft tissues, promoting better tissue mobility, flexibility, and function, particularly beneficial for individuals with chronic pain or limited range of motion.
6. Treatment of chronic conditions: Shockwave therapy is effective in treating chronic musculoskeletal conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, and calcific shoulder tendinitis, providing long-lasting pain relief and improved function.
7. Non-invasive alternative to surgery: Shockwave therapy offers a non-invasive, outpatient treatment option for individuals with chronic pain or musculoskeletal disorders, potentially avoiding the need for surgical intervention and its associated risks and recovery time.
8. Minimal side effects: Shockwave therapy is generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects, such as mild discomfort during treatment and temporary soreness or bruising afterward, making it a safe and viable option for many patients.
9. Customizable treatment parameters: Shockwave therapy allows for adjustable treatment parameters, including intensity, frequency, and duration, which can be tailored to meet each individual’s specific needs, ensuring optimal therapeutic outcomes.
10. Improved quality of life: By reducing pain, improving function, and enhancing tissue healing, shockwave therapy can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from chronic musculoskeletal conditions, allowing them to return to their normal activities and hobbies with greater comfort and mobility