What is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy, or extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate the body's natural healing processes. These acoustic waves are delivered to injured tissues like tendons, ligaments, and bones, promoting increased blood flow and tissue regeneration. The therapy was developed in the late 20th century and initially used for breaking down kidney stones. It was soon discovered that this therapy can do so much more.

How does Shockwave Therapy work?

Shockwave therapy works by sending high-energy sound waves through your skin and into the soft tissue underneath. Think of it like sonar or ultrasound; this focused sound beam is designed to help your cells work better and improve your overall circulation. When this happens, the waves increase blood flow, break down calcified deposits, and trigger a localized inflammatory response that releases growth factors, ultimately promoting tissue repair and relieving pain. This treatment is commonly used for conditions such as plantar fasciitis, tendinitis, tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, and other chronic musculoskeletal pain.

Shockwave therapy works by sending high-energy sound waves through your skin and into the soft tissue underneath.

What does Shockwave Therapy do for me?

As these waves penetrate the tissue, they trigger biological changes, such as increased collagen production and metabolic activity, which are essential for restoring the function of connective tissues. Overall, this process offers a noninvasive treatment option rooted in facilitating the body's repair processes, leading to a reduction in chronic pain and an improvement in quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Shockwave therapy is generally a safe procedure with few risks and side effects. In fact, the most common side effect is a temporary increase in pain or discomfort in the area that was treated. Other possible side effects may include redness, swelling, or bruising.

    Rare but serious side effects can occur in some cases. These may include skin burns, nerve damage and tissue damage. Side effects may occur due to improper technique or dosing, because of an underlying medical condition or the simultaneous use of corticosteroids.

  • Before deciding, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a sports medicine doctor or physical therapist, to see if you are a suitable candidate.

    You should consider shockwave therapy if you have a chronic musculoskeletal injury or condition that has not responded to more conservative treatments, such as physical therapy.

    If you are pregnant, have a heart condition/pacemaker, blood clotting disease, or cancer, shockwave is not recommended.

  • Please contact us for more information. Call (781) 829-9355 or email Wellness@NEWellnessSolutions.com.

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