2025-01-30T18:46:34
Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive medical treatment that uses acoustic waves to stimulate healing in injured or damaged tissues. It is commonly used to treat musculoskeletal conditions, particularly those involving tendons, ligaments, and bones. The therapy is called "extracorporeal" because the shockwaves are generated outside the body and then directed toward the affected area. ### How It Works: Shockwave therapy delivers high-energy or low-energy acoustic waves to the targeted area. These waves create microtrauma in the tissue, which stimulates the body's natural healing processes. The therapy promotes: - **Increased blood flow**: Enhances circulation to the injured area, delivering oxygen and nutrients essential for repair. - **Collagen production**: Encourages the growth of new collagen, which is vital for tissue regeneration. - **Reduction of inflammation**: Helps decrease pain and swelling. - **Breakdown of calcifications**: Effective in treating conditions like calcific tendinitis, where calcium deposits accumulate in tendons. ### Common Applications: Shockwave therapy is used to treat a variety of conditions, including: - **Plantar fasciitis**: A common cause of heel pain. - **Tendinopathies**: Such as Achilles tendinopathy, tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis), and rotator cuff injuries. - **Bone fractures**: Helps stimulate bone healing in non-union fractures. - **Calcific tendinitis**: Breaks down calcium deposits in tendons. - **Chronic pain**: Used for conditions like myofascial pain syndrome. ### Types of Shockwave Therapy: 1. **Focused Shockwave Therapy**: Delivers high-energy waves to a specific, deep target area. Often used for deeper tissues like bones. 2. **Radial Shockwave Therapy**: Uses lower-energy waves that spread out radially, making it suitable for treating larger, more superficial areas like muscles and tendons. ### Procedure: - The treatment is typically performed in a clinic or medical office. - A gel is applied to the skin to help transmit the shockwaves. - A handheld device is used to deliver the waves to the affected area. - Sessions usually last 10–20 minutes and may require multiple visits depending on the condition. ### Benefits: - Non-invasive and does not require surgery. - Minimal side effects (e.g., mild discomfort or redness at the treatment site). - Effective for chronic conditions that have not responded to other treatments. ### Side Effects: While generally safe, some patients may experience: - Temporary pain or discomfort during or after the procedure. - Redness, swelling, or bruising at the treatment site. - Rarely, more serious complications like tissue damage (if used improperly). ### Contraindications: Shockwave therapy is not suitable for everyone. It should be avoided in: - Pregnant women. - Patients with blood clotting disorders or taking anticoagulants. - Areas with tumors, infections, or open wounds. - Patients with nerve or vascular disorders in the treatment area. ### Conclusion: Shockwave therapy is a promising treatment for various musculoskeletal conditions, offering a non-invasive alternative to surgery or long-term medication. However, its effectiveness depends on the specific condition, the severity of the injury, and the patient's overall health. Always consult a healthcare professional to determine if shockwave therapy is appropriate for your needs. Physiotherapy clinic in Tambaram Are you Looking for Physiotherapy Treatment in Tambaram, Sunshine Super Speciality Physiotherapy Clinic, We Provide Electrotherapy, Exercise and Manual Therapy, Orthopedic, Neuro, Cardio, Pediatric, Sports and Geriatric Rehabilitation, Post Operative Physiotherapy Treatment, Fracture Rehabilitation, pain free movement. SUNSHINE ® SUPER SPECIALITY PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINIC - #DrParthiban #Sunshinephysioclinic.in #Physiotherapyclinicintambaram #Physiotherapyclinicnearme DR.M.P. PARTHIBAN.M.P.T (Ortho), Chief Orthopedic Physiotherapist, Call for Appointments: - 9345122177 East Tambaram, CHENNAI