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About Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave Therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate healing in injured or painful tissues. Originally developed to treat kidney stones, shockwave technology is now widely used in chiropractic, orthopedic, and sports medicine settings to help patients recover from chronic pain and soft tissue injuries.
During treatment, acoustic waves are delivered through the skin directly to the affected area. These waves help stimulate circulation, break down scar tissue and calcifications, encourage cellular repair, and activate the body’s natural healing response. Shockwave Therapy may also help reduce pain sensitivity and improve mobility.
Chiropractic Shockwave Therapy is often used alongside chiropractic adjustments and other conservative therapies to help patients heal more efficiently and return to normal activities sooner.
Treatments are non-surgical, require little to no downtime, and are generally well tolerated by patients. Most sessions are relatively brief and customized according to the patient’s condition and comfort level.
Conditions We Treat with Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave Therapy is commonly used for chronic musculoskeletal conditions, overuse injuries, and stubborn soft tissue problems that have not responded well to traditional care.
Common conditions treated include:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendonitis
- Tennis elbow
- Golfer’s elbow
- Shoulder pain
- Rotator cuff tendonitis
- Frozen shoulder
- Knee pain
- Patellar tendonitis
- Shin splints
- Hip pain
- Bursitis
- Neck pain
- Low back pain
- Sciatica
- Trigger points and muscle tightness
- Tendon injuries
- Muscle strains
- Ligament sprains
- Scar tissue restrictions
- Chronic inflammation
- Sports injuries
- Repetitive stress injuries
- Joint stiffness
- Calcific tendonitis
Shockwave Therapy may also help improve mobility, circulation, tissue healing, and recovery following injury or chronic overuse conditions.
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Shockwave Therapy FAQs
What does Shockwave Therapy feel like?
Most patients describe the treatment as a series of rapid pulses or tapping sensations delivered to the affected area. Some mild discomfort may occur, especially in chronically inflamed tissues, but treatment intensity can be adjusted according to your comfort level.
How long does a Shockwave Therapy session take?
Most sessions last approximately 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the size and location of the treatment area.
How many treatments will I need?
Treatment plans vary depending on the severity and duration of the condition. Many patients receive between 3 and 8 treatments spaced over several weeks.
When will I notice improvement?
Some patients experience relief after the first treatment, while others notice gradual improvement over several sessions. Healing continues between visits as the body responds to the therapy.
Is there downtime after treatment?
Most patients can return to normal daily activities immediately following treatment. However, strenuous exercise involving the treated area may need to be limited temporarily.
Is Shockwave Therapy safe?
Shockwave Therapy is considered a safe, non-invasive treatment when administered by a trained healthcare provider. Side effects are typically mild and temporary and may include slight redness, soreness, or tenderness in the treated area.
Who should not receive Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave Therapy may not be appropriate for patients who are pregnant, have certain circulatory disorders, blood-clotting conditions, active infections, or areas of cancerous tissue. A complete examination and consultation will determine if this therapy is appropriate for your condition.
Can Shockwave Therapy be combined with chiropractic care?
Yes. Shockwave Therapy is frequently combined with chiropractic adjustments, rehabilitation exercises, and other conservative treatments to improve outcomes and help address both the symptoms and underlying causes of pain.
Is Shockwave Therapy Covered by Insurance?
Coverage varies by insurance provider and individual policy. Our office can help review your benefits and discuss available payment options.
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