Persistent pain can be frustrating, particularly when you’ve tried rest and changes to your normal routine but symptoms continue to interfere with everyday life.
One treatment option that may be considered for certain musculoskeletal problems is shockwave therapy.
But what exactly is it, and when might it be appropriate?
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic waves to deliver energy to a targeted area of the body.
It’s commonly used within musculoskeletal care, particularly for some persistent tendon and soft tissue problems. NICE explains more about how extracorporeal shockwave therapy is delivered.
Rather than being a surgical procedure or an injection, the treatment is delivered externally through a handheld device.
At Bodycare Chiropractic, shockwave therapy can form part of a wider treatment and rehabilitation plan following an assessment.
What Can Shockwave Therapy Be Used For?
Shockwave therapy is often considered for persistent tendon-related problems and some other musculoskeletal conditions.
Depending on the individual, it may be considered for issues such as:
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Plantar fasciitis
- Tennis elbow
- Patella tendinopathy
- Persistent tendon pain
- Some sports-related injuries
It’s important to remember that shockwave therapy isn’t appropriate for every type of pain. Your symptoms and medical history should be assessed before treatment is recommended.
The Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital provides patient information on shockwave therapy, including when it may be considered for conditions such as Achilles tendinopathy and plantar fasciitis.
How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?
During treatment, a handheld applicator is placed against the skin over the area being treated.
The device delivers a series of acoustic waves into the targeted tissue.
Treatment is generally relatively quick, although the exact process and number of sessions will depend on the individual and the problem being treated.
You may feel some discomfort during the treatment, particularly when the area is already sensitive.
Your practitioner should explain what to expect before starting and make sure the treatment is appropriate for you.
Does Shockwave Therapy Work on Its Own?
For persistent tendon problems, treatment isn’t always about one particular technique.
Shockwave therapy may be used alongside other approaches, particularly rehabilitation and exercise.
This can be important because improving how the affected area copes with everyday activity and exercise can be an important part of longer-term recovery.
At Bodycare Chiropractic, your treatment plan may combine shockwave therapy with rehabilitation, soft tissue therapy, chiropractic care or other appropriate techniques depending on your assessment.
You can learn more about rehabilitation and exercise and how it can form part of a personalised treatment plan.
What Does Shockwave Treatment Feel Like?
Everyone responds differently, but shockwave therapy can feel uncomfortable while it’s being delivered.
The level of discomfort can depend on the area being treated and how sensitive the tissue is.
Your practitioner can adjust the treatment parameters depending on your individual tolerance.
Some people experience temporary tenderness or soreness following treatment. Your practitioner will give you appropriate advice about what to do afterwards.
NHS patient information on shockwave therapy also explains what patients may experience during and after treatment.
How Many Sessions Will You Need?
There’s no single number of sessions that works for everyone.
The number and frequency of treatments will depend on factors such as:
- The condition being treated
- How long you’ve had your symptoms
- Your response to treatment
- Your activity levels
- Your wider rehabilitation plan
An assessment can help establish whether shockwave therapy is appropriate and what a suitable treatment plan could look like.
At Bodycare Chiropractic, shockwave therapy is available following an initial assessment where appropriate.
What About Exercise During Treatment?
If you’re having shockwave therapy for a tendon or sports-related problem, completely stopping activity isn’t necessarily the goal.
Instead, your practitioner may advise you on how to modify your normal activities while your symptoms settle.
This might involve temporarily changing your training volume, reducing certain movements or gradually increasing your activity as your tolerance improves.
The right approach depends on your individual symptoms.
When Should You Get Persistent Pain Checked?
If you’ve been dealing with pain for a long time and it isn’t improving, getting an appropriate assessment can help you understand what might be contributing to it.
This is particularly relevant if pain is affecting your ability to work, exercise, sleep or take part in activities you normally enjoy.
However, shockwave therapy isn’t suitable for every condition. If your symptoms suggest that another form of medical assessment is needed, you should be directed towards the appropriate healthcare professional.
Could Shockwave Therapy Be Right for You?
Shockwave therapy can be one option for certain persistent musculoskeletal and tendon problems, but it’s not a universal treatment for pain.
At Bodycare Chiropractic, treatment starts with an assessment so your symptoms can be considered before deciding whether shockwave therapy is appropriate.
If you’d like to find out more, you can contact Bodycare Chiropractic to discuss your symptoms and treatment options.
You can also meet the team before booking an appointment.