Shockwave Therapy
Musculoskeletal pain affects millions of people every day. For some people, this type of pain is a nuisance. But for many, it is physically debilitating reducing their quality of life and limiting their ability to enjoy activities with family and friends. Shockwave therapy (SWT) can end your suffering, quickly and naturally.
What is shockwave therapy?
Shockwave Therapy is also known as Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Treatment (EPAT), Extracorporeal Shock Wave Technology (ESWT) and Pressure Wave Therapy. Shockwave therapy was evolved after the first non-direct contact disintegration of a kidney stone by Haeusler & Kiefer using shockwaves in 1971. It is a non-invasive treatment involving a series of high-peak acoustic wave pulsations being directly introduced to injured tissue on the body by the MiracleWave device. Pressure Wave Therapy accelerates the healing process in the body by stimulating the metabolism and enhancing blood circulation to regenerate damaged tissue.
How does shockwave therapy work?
The physiotherapist uses a device that delivers mechanical energy into the target tissue. The energy will treat muscle pain and help increase the circulation in the area being treated. It also affects the tissue tone in a positive way making your other therapies more effective.
Your chronic pain may be related to scar tissue and adhesions formed either in soft tissue or tendon/ligament post-injury. Treatment with shockwave therapy effectively presses the reset button on chronic scarred and hard-to-treat soft tissue. Scar tissue or adhesions in many cases adheres to and puts pressure on nerves which can result in pain. Breaking up the scarring and adhesions helps take the pressure off the nerve and increases circulation to the area which helps the body heal itself more efficiently. Plus, this will help improve your limited range of motion.
Is it normal to experience pain during treatment?
Shockwave Therapy creates mechanical stress that may cause mild discomfort during treatment. Depending on the desired depth of penetration, varying amounts of energy may be utilized to create the desired effect and some soreness may be experienced post-treatment.
What is the duration of pain relief after treatment?
Most patients report some pain relief after the first treatment. However, the effects are most prominent after the second or third treatment. Your physiotherapist will be able to help you through this process as every patient based on their condition may respond differently.
How many treatments are required on average?
Some people notice results in as little as 1 or 2 treatments. The normal number of treatments for most conditions is 3 to 4, but certain conditions may require up to a maximum of 9 treatments. Four to 10 days between treatments is recommended for the body to recover naturally. If a maximum of 9 treatments is required, it is advisable to wait 4 to 6 weeks before the next treatment to the same area of the body.
Can I continue playing sports or normal physical exercise after Shockwave Therapy?
Physical exercise promotes metabolism and the restructuring processes in the tissue. It is normal to continue your physical activities within guidelines set by your health care provider.
Give Shockwave Therapy a Try!
End your debilitating musculoskeletal pain today! Call us at (905) 497-1311 for more information or to schedule an appointment.