Shockwave Therapy: Pros And Cons
It is natural for you to want to understand more about a medical procedure before undergoing treatment. After all, every treatment carries its benefits and risks. You would likely have similar sentiments about shockwave therapy. Well, let us reassure you that it is a safe and effective treatment for localised musculoskeletal pain.
That said, every individual is unique and responds differently to treatment. Shockwave therapy may be ideal for one patient but not suitable for someone else. So how do you know if this treatment is right for you? Let us share the pros and cons of the procedure so that you can make an informed decision.
What is shockwave therapy?
Shockwave therapy is a clinically proven non-invasive procedure used to treat various musculoskeletal pain. Our therapists will use a device to send rapid percussion shock waves into your soft tissues or outer bone layers. This is done to re-injure the problem area on a cellular level in a controlled manner and break up any scarring that has developed in your fascia layers, ligaments, muscles, or tendons.
This process helps stimulate the production of bone-forming cells and micro-blood vessels. The resulting neovascularization (growth of new blood vessels to an old damaged area) promotes faster healing and better nutrient supply to the healing tissues.
Shockwave therapy is best suited for patients afflicted with pain for 6 weeks or longer.
Pros of shockwave therapy
Benefit #1: Non-invasive treatment
Some people may hesitate about going under the knife to treat their musculoskeletal pain. The good news is that shockwave therapy is a non-invasive, non-surgical treatment. Before the treatment starts, our therapists will apply a friction-reducing gel to the target area to ensure the smooth and efficient transfer of the percussion waves.
During the treatment, you may experience slight pain or discomfort in the treatment area. If you feel uncomfortable, you can inform our therapists, and they can adjust the intensity of the pulses accordingly. These shockwave pulses are only necessary to kick-start the healing process. Your body will handle the rest on its own.
Benefit #2: Minimal downtime
Another benefit of non-invasive treatments like shockwave therapy is the minimal downtime associated with such procedures. When you undergo surgery, the doctor may require you to be warded for observation. Conversely, you can walk into our clinic for shockwave therapy, and the treatment can be completed within an hour. Afterwards, you are free to go about the rest of your day.
Benefit #3: Accelerated recovery
Shockwave therapy stimulates the production of bone-forming cells and micro-blood vessels to promote faster healing. You may even experience less discomfort and greater mobility after the first session. Nonetheless, our therapists will advise against high-impact activity for at least 48 hours following each treatment session. However, the recovery process is still substantially shorter than surgery.
If you are suffering from chronic pain that will not subside, this is may be the solution you seek! Do not hesitate to speak with our therapist, as they can help determine if shockwave therapy is a good fit for your comprehensive treatment plan. Contact Orchard Health Clinic today to schedule an appointment with us.