What Is Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy?
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate the body's natural healing processes. It is most commonly used to treat chronic pain, particularly in the muscles, tendons, and joints.
How does ESWT work?
ESWT works by creating micro-injuries in the affected tissue. This stimulates the body's own healing response, which leads to the formation of new blood vessels, the growth of new tissue, and the reduction of inflammation.
What conditions can be treated with ESWT?
ESWT is FDA-approved for the treatment of several conditions, including:
- Plantar fasciitis: A common cause of heel pain, plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot.
- Achilles tendinitis: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone.
- Calcific tendinitis of the shoulder: A condition characterized by the formation of calcium deposits in the rotator cuff tendons.
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis): Pain on the outside of the elbow, caused by inflammation of the tendons that attach to the elbow.
- Golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis): Pain on the inside of the elbow, caused by inflammation of the tendons that attach to the elbow.
- Trigger finger: A condition in which the tendons in the finger or thumb become inflamed, causing the finger or thumb to lock in a bent position.
- Hip bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that helps to reduce friction between the tendons and bones in the hip.
What are the benefits of ESWT?
ESWT offers several benefits, including:
- It is non-invasive: ESWT does not require surgery or the use of needles.
- It is relatively painless: Most patients experience only mild discomfort during ESWT treatment.
- It is effective: ESWT has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and improving function in a variety of conditions.
- It is typically covered by insurance: Many insurance plans cover ESWT treatment.
What are the risks of ESWT?
The risks of ESWT are generally mild and temporary, and may include:
- Skin bruising: ESWT can cause some bruising in the treated area.
- Swelling: ESWT can cause some swelling in the treated area.
- Pain: ESWT can cause some pain during and after treatment.
- Infection: There is a small risk of infection at the treatment site.
How is ESWT performed?
ESWT is typically performed in a doctor's office or outpatient clinic. The patient will be positioned comfortably on a treatment table and the area to be treated will be cleaned and shaved. A gel will then be applied to the skin to help conduct the sound waves.
The ESWT device will then be placed over the treatment area and the therapist will begin to deliver the shock waves. The treatment typically lasts for 10 to 15 minutes.
How many treatments are needed?
The number of ESWT treatments needed will vary depending on the condition being treated. Most patients will require 3 to 6 treatments, spaced about a week apart.
What is the recovery time from ESWT?
The recovery time from ESWT is typically quick and easy. Most patients are able to resume their normal activities immediately following treatment. Some patients may experience some soreness or discomfort for a few days after treatment, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Is ESWT right for me?
ESWT is a safe and effective treatment for a variety of chronic pain conditions. If you are suffering from chronic pain, talk to your doctor to see if ESWT is right for you.