Shockwave Therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) and Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology (EPAT) are a natural and non-invasive treatment that stimulates the body’s natural healing mechanisms to repair both acute and chronically damaged ligaments, tendons, or other structures. The treatment involves using acoustic (sound) pressure waves, generated from a FDA approved device to the injured area that stimulates and reactivates a healthy healing response. This positive inflammation triggers the body’s natural repair processes to strengthen the existing tissue and to enhance the growth of new tissue/collagen. In addition, shockwaves help to over-stimulate pain transmission nerves, which can lead to a reduction in sensitivity and pain. Shockwave Therapy is clinically proven and recognized by the top orthopedic hospitals, and used by high-profile sports bodies. 

How Does It Work?
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive, effective treatment that can eliminate pain, restore full mobility, and greatly improve quality of life, with beneficial effects typically experienced with as few as one treatment session but often requires a series of three or more for best results. Shockwave acts by increasing blood flow to the injured area, breaking up scar tissue and activating local stem cells and recruiting healing proteins for a healing response.

Shockwave Therapy treats a variety of musculoskeletal diseases, particularly when other conservative methods have failed. This type of therapy is regarded as safe, non-invasive, low-cost, and free of risks associated with surgical procedures and postoperative pain. ESWT side effects are limited to mild bruising, swelling, pain, numbness, or tingling in the treated area, and recovery time is short compared to surgical intervention.

Conditions Treated?
ESWT is a great treatment option for musculoskeletal and nerve conditions and pain relief. By increasing blood flow and stimulating new blood vessel formation, breaking up scar tissue, reducing inflammation and releasing triggered and restricted muscles, it is an effective treatment option for many musculoskeletal conditions including but not limited to:
  • Shoulder Pain and Tendinopathy/partial tears of the shoulder
  • Knee Pain
  • Hip Pain
  • Neck and Back Pain
  • Plantar Fasciitis/Fasciosis
  • Chronic Tendinopathy
  • Calcifications (Calcific Tendinitis and Rotator Cuff Calcifications)
  • Tennis Elbow (Elbow Tendinopathy and Lateral Epicondylitis)
  • Achilles’ Tendinopathy
  • Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (Trochanteric Bursitis, Gluteus Medius Tendinopathy)
  • Peripheral Neuropathy and Nerve Entrapments (Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Cubital Tunnel Syndrome and Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, etc..)
  • Stress and Non-union Fractures
 
What Should I Expect? 
At your initial visit, Dr. Hammonds will perform a thorough history and physical examination in order to establish an accurate and complete diagnosis. During this time, we will review your medical history, previous records, imaging studies (MRI, Xray, CT scan), medications, nutritional status and physical activities or sports. Using all of the above information, Dr. Hammonds will discuss appropriate treatment options and answer any questions you may have.  

Once you have been determined to be a good candidate for this intervention, you will receive a pre-procedure plan that includes medications/supplements to hold as well as how to prepare for your procedure. Shockwave Therapy treatments can often begin immediately. Most treatments take 15-20 minutes per treatment area. Depending on your condition, Dr. Hammonds will often perform an ultrasound evaluation at your first session to assess the area of concern and to customize your treatment plan. Though many of our patients report significant relief after just one visit, best results are seen often with at least three weekly sessions. After your sessions are complete, you will have continued healing for another 2-3 months. While receiving shockwave therapy, you have minimal downtime and depending on your injury, may be able to continue training during your treatment window. It has been a great option for our athletes that are in season. Click here to schedule an appointment to see if you are a good candidate for shockwave therapy.