Shockwave Therapy

A SHOCKWAVE is essentially a PRESSURE DISTURBANCE that propagates rapidly through a MEDIUM. A shockwave is, put simply, an acoustic wave, a means of transmitting energy. Acoustic waves that are generated by the shockwave, trigger biological effects which lead to faster and long-term healing and regeneration of the tissue.

Shockwave Therapy is an alternative to invasive surgical procedures. It is a highly effective treatment for chronic soft tissue injuries and certain bone conditions.

There are four different ways to produce a ‘shock wave’: spark discharge; piezoelectric; electromagnetic and pneumatic (or electrohydrualic). The wave that is generated will vary in its energy content and also will have different penetration characteristics in human tissue. In therapy the most commonly employed generation method is based on the  pneumatic system, and the key reason for this is that a radial (dispersive) wave results. The focussed waves are essential for ‘surgical’ interventions, but given their destructive nature, they are less appropriate for therapeutic uses. Focussed waves are sometimes also referred to as ‘hard’ shockwaves, the radial or dispersive wave sometimes called a ‘soft’ shockwave (another twist in the terminology).

Benefits of Shockwave Therapy:

• Proven Effective – Independent studies proved patients undergoing shockwave therapy have a 60 to 90 percent chance of healing their injury.
• Boost Collagen Production – Collagen is one of the body’s building blocks needed to heal an injury. Shockwave therapy aids in increasing collagen production.
• Breaks up Calcification – Trauma to the tendons can generate calcified fibroblasts in the injured area. Calcified fibroblasts cause chronic pain which decreases mobility.
• Non-Invasive – Shockwave therapy is a strong option for patients who want to avoid surgery, prescription medication, and possible side effects.