What is Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)?
What started out as a non-invasive way to treat kidney stones, quickly became a useful tool in the management of various orthopedic conditions.
Shockwaves are sounds waves with particular characteristics. These characteristics create a positive and negative phase. The positive phase produces a mechanical force on the tissues; the negative phase creates gas bubbles and cavitations that stimulates another wave of shockwaves.
The exact mechanism of ESWT is unknown, but the current theory ultimately stimulates collagen and tissue remodeling. This is via increasing circulation, tenocyte formation, stimulating bone growth, and amplifying protein synthesis.
Most of the research for ESWT has been to treat soft tissue injuries, that is issues with the tendons, fascia, and ligaments.
Why Should I Come to Absolute Health & Wellness?
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy is indicated for a wide range of conditions, especially those stubborn ones that just won’t go away. Our team of physiotherapists and chiropractor can assess your issue and help determine if ESWT is for you. They will ensure that it isn’t contraindicated for your particular injury or any other medical conditions you may have. It is a great adjunct to your regular treatments and home exercise program to help manage your condition.
Commonly Treated Conditions with Shockwave
- Tendinopathy (rotator cuff, tennis elbow, patellar, Achilles, etc)
- Greater trochanteric pain syndrome
- Shin splints
- Frozen shoulder
- Knee osteoarthritis
- Heel spurs
- Back pain (lumbar and cervical regions, chronic muscular pain)
