Shockwave Therapy: Non-Invasive Treatment for Musculoskeletal Pain
Talk to a Specialist about Shockwave Therapy
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Here at SoCo Therapies, we are a multidisciplinary healthcare clinic located in Bournemouth. Our mission is to help individuals achieve their health goals by offering a range of physical and mental healthcare solutions.
Our clinic boasts a team of practitioners who specialise in osteopathy, sports therapy, massage, chiropractic, counselling, acupuncture, and hypnotherapy.
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive medical treatment that has been gaining popularity at SoCo Therapies and other clinics worldwide. This innovative therapy uses shockwaves to promote healing in various musculoskeletal conditions.
Clinical studies have shown promising results for the treatment of a wide range of conditions, making it a popular choice among patients seeking effective and safe treatment options.
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy utilizes high-intensity sound waves, commonly referred to as shockwaves, to activate the body's natural healing process. A handheld device is utilized to deliver the shockwaves to the targeted area. Two types of shockwaves are employed in this treatment: focused and radial shockwaves.
Focused shockwaves are high-energy acoustic waves that are focused on a specific area. They are typically used to treat deep tissue injuries, such as achilles tendinopathy and plantar fasciitis. Radial shockwaves, on the other hand, are low-energy acoustic waves that are spread out over a wider area. They are commonly used to treat conditions like tennis elbow and shoulder pain.
Shockwave therapy has demonstrated efficacy in treating various musculoskeletal conditions such as tendinopathies, plantar fasciitis, and tennis elbow. It has also been found to be useful in treating non-musculoskeletal conditions such as chronic pelvic pain syndrome and erectile dysfunction.
In the next section, we will delve deeper into how shockwave therapy works, including the biological mechanisms that are involved in promoting healing.
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy offers a range of benefits for patients seeking a non-invasive treatment option for musculoskeletal conditions. Here are some of the most significant benefits:
Reduction in pain and inflammation
Shockwave therapy has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing pain and inflammation in affected areas. The high-intensity sound waves used in this therapy stimulate the body's natural healing response, leading to increased blood flow, oxygenation, and nutrient delivery to the affected area.
This helps to reduce pain and inflammation, while also promoting healing. As a non-invasive treatment option, shockwave therapy offers an attractive alternative for patients seeking relief from musculoskeletal conditions without the risks and side effects associated with surgery or medication.
Faster healing time
Shockwave therapy can help speed up the healing process for a wide range of conditions. This is because it stimulates the body's natural healing response, leading to increased blood flow, nutrient delivery, and oxygenation to the affected area. This promotes the regeneration of damaged tissues, leading to a faster recovery time.
Non-invasive and safe treatment option
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment option that does not require any surgery or anesthesia. It is a safe and effective treatment option with minimal side effects. Compared to surgery, it is a much less invasive and potentially less risky option.
Potential cost savings compared to surgery
Shockwave therapy is often a more cost-effective treatment option compared to surgery. It is a non-invasive treatment that can be performed on an outpatient basis, which means there are no hospital stays or post-surgical recovery costs. This makes it a potentially more affordable option for patients seeking relief from musculoskeletal conditions.
Overall, shockwave therapy is a safe and effective treatment option that offers a range of benefits for patients seeking relief from musculoskeletal conditions. In the next section, we will discuss the success rates of shockwave therapy and how many sessions may be needed to achieve optimal results.
Who Should Consider Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy is an alternative treatment option that can be beneficial for individuals experiencing various musculoskeletal conditions. It is often recommended for patients who have not found success with other treatment options, such as physical therapy, medication, or injections. Shockwave therapy may also be a preferred choice for individuals seeking a non-invasive treatment option and want to avoid surgery or medication.
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Some of the conditions that may benefit from shockwave therapy include:
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Golfers elbow
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Achilles tendinopathy
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Rotator cuff tendinopathy
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Patellar tendinopathy
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Shin splints
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​Individuals experiencing pain or discomfort in various musculoskeletal areas may consider shockwave therapy as a potential treatment option. However, it is crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the appropriateness of this therapy for their specific condition.
How Many Sessions are Needed?
The number of sessions needed for shockwave therapy can vary depending on the individual's specific condition and the severity of their symptoms. Typically, patients will require 3-5 sessions, with each session lasting approximately 15-20 minutes.
Factors that can affect the number of sessions needed include:
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The severity of the condition
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The location of the affected area
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The patient's overall health and healing ability
It is noteworthy that the effects of shockwave therapy may not be immediately apparent and may require a period of time to manifest. Patients should anticipate experiencing a reduction in symptoms within several weeks to months following the completion of their treatment regimen.
The expenses associated with shockwave therapy can fluctuate depending on various factors, such as the number of sessions required and the location of the treatment facility. Certain insurance plans may cover the costs of shockwave therapy, while others may necessitate out-of-pocket expenditures. It is imperative to verify with your insurance provider to ascertain the available coverage options for this form of treatment.
In the next section, we will discuss the success rates of shockwave therapy and who may not be suitable candidates for this treatment option.
Success Rates of Shockwave Therapy
Numerous studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of shockwave therapy for various musculoskeletal conditions. These studies have shown promising results, with many patients experiencing significant pain reduction and improvement in function.
For example, a study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research found that shockwave therapy was effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with plantar fasciitis, with a success rate of up to 88% after just three sessions of treatment.
Another study published in the Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery found that shockwave therapy was effective in treating calcific tendinitis of the shoulder, with 79% of patients experiencing significant improvement in pain and function after just one session of treatment.
In addition to these specific conditions, shockwave therapy has also been shown to be effective in treating other musculoskeletal conditions such as tennis elbow, achilles tendinopathy, and patellar tendinopathy.
Overall, the reported success rates for shockwave therapy vary depending on the specific condition being treated and the number of sessions received, but many studies have reported success rates of over 70%.
Patient satisfaction with shockwave therapy is also high, with many reporting significant improvement in their symptoms and quality of life. However, it is important to note that not all patients will respond to shockwave therapy and individual results may vary.
Precautions and Contraindications
While shockwave therapy is generally safe, there are certain precautions and contraindications that should be taken into consideration. Individuals with certain medical conditions may not be suitable candidates for shockwave therapy.
Who Should Not Receive Shockwave Therapy:
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Pregnant women
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Individuals with blood clotting disorders
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Patients on blood-thinning medications
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Individuals with tumors in the treated area
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Patients with open wounds or infections
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Patients with pacemakers or other implanted devices
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Individuals with nerve disorders
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Safety Measures Taken by Practitioners:
To ensure the safety and effectiveness of shockwave therapy, practitioners take certain precautions when administering treatment. This includes using appropriate dosage levels, selecting the correct type of shockwave for the condition being treated, and monitoring patients closely for any adverse reactions. Practitioners also take steps to ensure that patients are properly positioned and that the treatment area is adequately prepared and sterilized.
Potential Risks and Side Effects:
Like any medical treatment, shockwave therapy does carry some risk of side effects. These may include:
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Pain or discomfort during or after treatment
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Redness or bruising in the treated area
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Swelling
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Numbness or tingling
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Skin irritation or rash
In most cases, these side effects are mild and temporary, resolving on their own within a few days after treatment. It is important to discuss any concerns or potential risks with your healthcare provider before undergoing shockwave therapy.
Comparing Shockwave Therapy to Other Treatments
Shockwave therapy has emerged as a novel and increasingly popular treatment option for various musculoskeletal conditions. However, it is essential to evaluate its efficacy in comparison to other treatments.
One such comparison is between shockwave therapy and ultrasound therapy, which, although using sound waves, have distinct applications. Ultrasound therapy typically provides deep heating to soft tissues, while shockwave therapy employs high-energy sound waves to treat specific musculoskeletal conditions.
In contrast to conventional treatments like medication or surgery, shockwave therapy is often less invasive and has a lower risk of complications. Additionally, it may provide cost savings compared to surgery.
Nevertheless, it is crucial to acknowledge that shockwave therapy may not be the optimal choice for every patient or condition. Therefore, a thorough consultation with a healthcare professional can help determine the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to individual needs.
Book a Free Shockwave Therapy Consultation
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In conclusion, shockwave therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for a range of musculoskeletal conditions. It can offer many benefits, including pain reduction, faster healing time, and potential cost savings compared to surgery.
At SoCo Therapies, we offer shockwave therapy treatment using state-of-the-art machines and a multidisciplinary approach to healthcare. Our team of experts can guide patients through the process and determine the most appropriate treatment plan for their individual needs.
Overall, the effectiveness of shockwave therapy has been supported by numerous studies and patient satisfaction rates. If you're considering shockwave therapy for a musculoskeletal condition, we encourage you to schedule a free consultation with our team to learn more.
FAQs​
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How long do the benefits of shockwave therapy last?
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The benefits of shockwave therapy can last for several months to a year, depending on the condition being treated, the severity of the symptoms, and the patient's individual response to treatment.
Is shockwave treatment painful?
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During shockwave treatment, patients may experience some discomfort or pain. However, the intensity and duration of the discomfort can vary depending on the individual's pain threshold, the area being treated, and the settings used on the shockwave device. In most cases, the discomfort is short-lived and subsides shortly after the treatment.
How many times can you have shockwave therapy?
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The number of sessions needed for shockwave therapy can vary depending on the condition being treated, the severity of the symptoms, and the patient's response to treatment. Typically, a course of shockwave therapy involves several sessions spread over several weeks.
What should you not do before shockwave?
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Before undergoing shockwave therapy, patients should avoid taking anti-inflammatory medications, as these can interfere with the body's natural healing response. Patients should also inform their healthcare provider of any medical conditions they have or medications they are taking.
Is shockwave therapy better than ultrasound?
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Shockwave therapy and ultrasound therapy are both non-invasive treatments that use sound waves. However, they have different applications and are used to treat different conditions. Ultrasound therapy is commonly used to provide deep heating to soft tissues, while shockwave therapy uses high-energy sound waves to treat specific musculoskeletal conditions.
Is shockwave therapy good for sciatica?
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Shockwave therapy has shown promise as a treatment option for sciatica, a condition that causes pain in the lower back and legs due to compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve. However, more research is needed to fully evaluate the effectiveness of shockwave therapy for this condition.
Can you get shockwave therapy on the NHS?
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In some cases, shockwave therapy may be available on the NHS (National Health Service) for certain conditions. However, availability may vary depending on the specific location and healthcare provider. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider or insurance provider to determine their coverage options for shockwave therapy.
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