Shock wave therapy is a type of physical therapy that uses sound waves to heal the body. It’s a non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment used for years to treat various conditions, from chronic pain to injuries. Shock wave therapy is also known as GAINSWave Therapy. Shock wave therapy or GAINSWave Therapy works by sending sound waves through the body, which then breaks up any calcification or scar tissue that may be present. That then allows for better blood flow and healing.
What is shock wave therapy?
Shockwave therapy is a relatively new, non-invasive treatment for various musculoskeletal conditions. The therapy uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing in the body. Shockwave therapy has been used to treat tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, and myofascial pain syndrome. Shockwave therapy increases blood flow to the affected area and breaks down scar tissue. The therapy can be uncomfortable, but it is usually not painful.
How does shock wave therapy work?
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive, highly effective treatment for several musculoskeletal conditions. The therapy uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing in the affected area. Shockwave therapy is usually performed as a series of treatments, each lasting for about 20 minutes. After 3-5 sessions, most patients see a marked improvement.
The vast majority of patients tolerates and responds favorably to shockwave therapy. During treatment, most people experience some level of discomfort. Skin redness, bruising, and swelling are other possible adverse reactions.
Benefits of shock wave therapy
If you’re considering shock wave therapy for chronic pain relief, here are benefits to keeping in mind:
- Non-invasive and drug-free – Shock wave therapy is a non-invasive procedure that doesn’t require anesthesia or any sedation. No drugs are involved, so there’s no risk of addiction or other side effects.
- Quick and easy – Shock wave therapy sessions are typically short, lasting only about 15-20 minutes. There’s no need for any recovery time afterward so you can resume your normal activities immediately.
- Effective – Shock wave therapy is an effective treatment for various chronic pain conditions. In some cases, it can provide complete relief from pain.
- Safe – Shock wave therapy is a safe procedure with minimal risks. The most common side effect is temporary soreness or bruising at the treatment site.
- 5. Affordable – Shock wave therapy is usually covered by insurance and the cost per session is typically lower than other treatments, such as surgery or injections.
Is there any side effect of shock wave therapy?
Shockwave therapy is a relatively new treatment option for various musculoskeletal conditions. Although it is generally considered safe, there are potential side effects that you should take into consideration before starting treatment.
The most common side effect of shockwave therapy is pain during or immediately after the treatment session. This pain is usually short-lived and subsides within a few minutes to hours. Other potential side effects include skin redness, bruising, and swelling at the treatment site. These side effects are also typically short-lived and resolve within a few days.
Rare but more serious potential side effects of shockwave therapy include nerve damage, skin burns, and internal bleeding. If you experience any of these side effects, you must immediately stop the treatment and seek medical attention.
Shockwave therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for various musculoskeletal conditions. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects that you should take into consideration before starting treatment.
How to find a qualified practitioner
There are a few things to consider when looking for a qualified practitioner for shock wave therapy:
- Check if the practitioner is licensed and certified in their field.
- Make sure they have experience treating the specific condition you are seeking treatment for.
- Ask the practitioner about their success rates and patient satisfaction levels.
Once you have found a qualified practitioner, follow their instructions and recommendations to ensure the best possible results.
Conclusion
Shockwave therapy is a new, promising treatment for many different types of injuries and pain. However, much still needs to be discovered about how it works and its long-term effects. More research is needed to determine whether shockwave therapy is an effective and safe treatment option for people with various conditions.
If you are considering shockwave therapy, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
