By Dr Andrew Ullo (Chiropractor)

 

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive medical treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to help alleviate pain and promote healing of certain musculoskeletal conditions. It is often used to treat conditions such as bursitis and tendinopathy, which are common causes of chronic pain and discomfort.

 

Bursitis is a condition that results from inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions bones, muscles, and tendons. Bursitis can cause pain and swelling in the affected area, and can make it difficult to move the joint normally. Shockwave therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and improving joint mobility in individuals with bursitis (Vogrin et al., 2016).

 

Tendinopathy, on the other hand, is a condition that results from overuse and degeneration of tendons, the fibrous tissues that connect muscles to bones. Tendinopathy can cause pain, weakness, and reduced range of motion, and can be difficult to treat. However, shockwave therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and improving function in individuals with tendinopathy, especially in the shoulder, elbow, and knee (Castagna et al., 2015).

 

Shockwave therapy works by creating pressure waves that penetrate deep into the tissue, promoting healing by stimulating blood flow and cell regeneration. The therapy is performed in a series of sessions, and can be completed in as little as 20 minutes per session.

 

While shockwave therapy is a relatively safe and effective treatment option, it is important to note that it may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as blood disorders, or those taking certain medications, may not be able to undergo shockwave therapy. Additionally, the therapy may not be effective in all cases, and may require additional treatment or rehabilitation to achieve the desired outcomes.

 

In conclusion, shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment option that can be effective in reducing pain and promoting healing in individuals with conditions such as bursitis and tendinopathy. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if shockwave therapy is suitable for your individual needs and to ensure the best possible outcome.

 

References:

 

Castagna, A., D’Agostino, A., D’Errico, V., Giorgi, I., Santilli, V., & Padua, E. (2015). The efficacy of shock wave therapy for tendinopathies: a systematic review. Muscles, Ligaments and Tendons Journal, 5(3), 300-307.

 

Vogrin, T., Skerjanc, T., & Mlakar, V. (2016). The effect of extracorporeal shockwave therapy on patients with chronic calcifying tendinitis of the rotator cuff: a randomized controlled trial. Physical Therapy in Sport, 17(2), 71-77.