
Chronic pain can make everyday activities feel impossible. Whereas traditional treatments do not always provide the relief patients need, many people are now turning to shockwave therapy as an effective alternative treatment option.
Shockwave therapy uses acoustic waves to stimulate healing in damaged tissues. This non-invasive therapy has helped thousands of patients find relief from various painful conditions by increasing blood flow and promoting the body’s natural healing processes.
What to Know About Shockwave Therapy
Despite its name, shockwave therapy does not involve any shock. Shockwave therapy (aka acoustic wave therapy or AWT) delivers high-energy acoustic waves to injured or painful areas of the body. These sound waves create micro-trauma in the targeted tissue, triggering the body to send more blood and nutrients to the affected area.
The increased blood flow not only helps reduce inflammation and pain but also encourages the formation of new blood vessels. This process is called neovascularization. The therapy can help break down scar tissue and calcium deposits that cause pain.
During treatment, a handheld device applies the acoustic waves directly to the skin. Sessions typically last a mere 15 to 20 minutes, but most patients require three to five treatments spaced one week apart.
Conditions That Respond Well to Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy can effectively treat many musculoskeletal conditions. The treatment works best for chronic conditions that have not responded to other therapies.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the thick band of tissue that supports the arch of your foot becomes inflamed, causing severe heel pain that often feels the worst in the morning. Shockwave therapy helps break down scar tissue in the plantar fascia, thus reducing inflammation.
Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow
These conditions produce pain and tenderness surrounding the elbow joint. Whereas tennis elbow affects the outside of the elbow, golfer’s elbow affects the inside. Both conditions involve inflammation of the tendons. Shockwave therapy helps reduce inflammation and promotes healing.
Shoulder Pain and Calcific Tendinitis
Various conditions – including rotator cuff injuries and calcific tendinitis – can cause chronic shoulder pain. Calcific tendinitis refers to calcium deposits that form in the shoulder tendons. These calcium deposits can be broken down with shockwave therapy, thereby reducing pain.
Achilles Tendinopathy
An inflamed or damaged Achilles tendon that connects your calf muscles to your heel bones can cause significant pain and stiffness. Shockwave therapy can help promote healing in the damaged tendon tissue.
Hip Pain and Trochanteric Bursitis
Hip pain can stem from various sources, including bursitis and tendon injuries. Trochanteric bursitis, for example, creates pain on the outside of the hip. Shockwave therapy helps reduce inflammation in the hip area, providing needed pain relief.
Other Conditions
Shockwave therapy may also help with knee pain, shin splints, and certain types of back pain. The treatment has been proven effective for trigger points and myofascial pain syndrome as well.
AWT even provides an effective, non-invasive treatment for vascular-related erectile dysfunction (ED).
What to Expect During Treatment
When starting shockwave therapy, patients must undergo a thorough evaluation to determine whether the treatment is appropriate for their condition. The doctor will review medical history and perform a physical examination.
During the treatment session, you lie on an examination table while the doctor applies a gel to the treatment area to help the acoustic waves penetrate the skin. The handheld device is then placed against the skin and moved around the affected area.
Patients may feel some discomfort during the procedure. However, the intensity of the procedure can be adjusted to ensure greater comfort. Most people tolerate the treatment well and can resume normal activities immediately afterward.
Shockwave Therapy at Alternative Disc Therapy
Alternative Disc Therapy in Caldwell, New Jersey, provides advanced shockwave therapy treatments under the guidance of triple board-certified physician Dr. Warren J. Bleiweiss. His extensive training and experience ensure patients receive the highest quality care.
Dr. Bleiweiss specializes in non-surgical treatments for chronic pain conditions. Utilizing state-of-the-art equipment to deliver optimal results, Dr. Bleiweiss has helped countless patients find relief through innovative therapies like shockwave treatment.
Patients searching for “shockwave therapy near me” in the greater New York/New Jersey area can find expert care at Alternative Disc Therapy. Our practice serves patients throughout the region – and around the world – who are seeking alternatives to surgery and medication.
Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You
Shockwave therapy may be an excellent option if you have chronic pain that has not responded to other treatments. The therapy works best for conditions involving tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissues.
Good candidates for shockwave therapy include patients with plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and similar conditions. The treatment is particularly beneficial for those who want to avoid surgery or reduce their reliance on pain medications.
Patients with certain medical conditions or those taking specific medications may not be suitable candidates for shockwave therapy. A thorough evaluation can determine if the treatment is appropriate.
Shockwave Therapy in Caldwell, New Jersey
Why live with chronic pain when shockwave therapy offers a safe and effective alternative to surgery?
If you are struggling with chronic pain and want to explore your treatment options, consider scheduling a consultation with Dr. Bleiweiss at Alternative Disc Therapy. His expertise in non-surgical pain management can help you determine if shockwave therapy is right for your condition.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Warren J. Bleiweiss, call the office directly at (973) 403-3334. For your added convenience, you can use our appointment request form to arrange your visit.