SHOCKWAVE THERAPY

What is Shockwave Therapy?

 

It is a non-invasive tool that sends pneumatically-created shockwaves into the body through a handpiece. The effect creates tissue regeneration, muscle relaxation and trigger point reduction, elimination of calcification, pain relief, and reversal of chronic inflammation.

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Shockwaves cause cell stimulation and growth factor release for cells to proliferate and differentiate. This leads to a growth of new tissue cells, new blood and lymph vessel formation, and the improved blood and lymph supply results in tissue repair. Tendons get increased collagen synthesis and accelerated regeneration. 

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Shockwave is only appropriate for CHRONIC conditions that have been an issue for 3+ months.

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Examples of appropriate conditions:

- chronic tendinosis (golfer's/tennis elbow, De Quervain's, rotator cuff tendon pain, Achilles pain)

- chronic plantar fasciitis

- heel spurs

- chronic carpal tunnel syndrome

- chronic knee discomfort (MCL, LCL, patellar tendon)

- chronic IT band pain

- chronic muscle injury (whiplash, rotator cuffs, hamstrings, piriformis syndrome, back pain, etc.)

- calcific tendinopathy (rotator cuffs)

- chronic hip or shoulder bursitis

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Shockwave is not appropriate for the following:

- pregnancy

- acute inflammation less than 3 months old

- children/teenagers still experiencing growth spurts

- individuals with pacemakers

- blood disorders, coagulation problems, thrombosis, or use of blood thinners

- corticosteroid injection less than 6 weeks prior

- near implants, plates, or screws

- active cancer or tumour patients

- polyneuropathy

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How do you prepare for this type of treatment? It's best if you avoid taking anti-inflammatories for 24 hours prior and avoid taking them for 48 hours after the procedure. Also avoid putting heat or cold onto the treated area for 48 hours after.

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Direct billing is available under your Massage Therapy coverage.