What is ESWT?
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive, cutting-edge treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to help accelerate healing in injured and painful tissues. The “shock waves” are delivered through the skin to the affected area, stimulating the body's natural healing processes and providing pain relief.
How does ESWT work?
The acoustic energy delivered during an ESWT session promotes healing by creating a controlled inflammatory response in the damaged tissue. This process encourages:
- Increased blood flow: Improved circulation delivers more nutrients and oxygen to the injured site, promoting faster recovery.
- Stimulation of new tissue growth: ESWT helps produce new collagen and other cellular repair mechanisms to regenerate healthy tissue.
- Breakdown of scar tissue and calcifications: The energy waves can disrupt old scar tissue and break up calcified deposits in tendons, allowing for better function.
- Pain reduction: The therapy may interrupt the transmission of pain signals to the brain and stimulate the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers.
What conditions can ESWT treat?
ESWT is a versatile treatment used for many musculoskeletal conditions, especially those that have not responded to more conservative therapies. Common conditions include:
- Plantar fasciitis and heel spurs
- Achilles tendonitis
- Tennis and golfer's elbow (lateral and medial epicondylitis)
- Rotator cuff tendonitis and calcific tendinitis of the shoulder
- Patellar tendonitis (jumper's knee)
- Chronic back and neck pain
- Stress fractures and non-healing bone injuries
- Myofascial pain and trigger points
What can you expect during an ESWT session?
- Preparation: You will sit or lie down, and a gel will be applied to the treatment area to facilitate the transfer of the sound waves.
- Treatment: A handheld applicator will be placed on the skin, delivering rapid, controlled pulses to the targeted area.
- Sensation: While generally not painful, you may experience some discomfort or a deep, pulsing sensation, particularly over the more injured areas. The intensity can be adjusted based on your comfort level.
- Duration: A typical session is short, lasting between 5 and 15 minutes.
- Post-treatment: You may feel some soreness or tenderness in the treated area, but there is generally no downtime. Most patients can resume normal activities immediately, with instructions to avoid anti-inflammatory medications and intense exercise for a short period.
Who is a good candidate for ESWT?
- Have been experiencing chronic pain for more than six weeks.
- Have not found relief from conservative treatments like rest, physical therapy, or medication.
- Are seeking a non-surgical alternative to address the root cause of your pain.