Do you have an injury to your ligament or tendon that doesn’t seem to be getting better? Experiencing sharp pain or discomfort at the bottom of your heel or Achilles tendon that disrupts your daily activities? ESWT can be used to improve healing rates.
In every person, there are nerve fibers that releases substances causing pain AND numbs pain (C-nerve fibers producing Substance P). This is very similar to when someone eats a red hot chilli pepper (or cili padi)! Imagine the feeling of initially having your mouth on fire, then feeling like it’s gone completely numb.
Research has indicated that ESWT works quite the same way. When activated, the C-nerve fibers releases pain-causing substances in the tissue, which is responsible for causing slight discomfort during and after ESWT treatments. However, with prolonged activation, C-nerve fibers become incapable of releasing Substance P, and causes reduction of pain for a period of time. The kinetic energy delivered also helps the release of growth factors and the activation of stem cells in the treated tissue.
In layman terms, ESWT helps to reduce pain by numbing the nerve and facilitates healing by improving blood supply to the area of injury. It is for this reason, it has the ability to effectively treat multiple tendon or ligament injuries which have little blood supply.
As mentioned above, it is normal to feel pain during ESWT and to feel sore after. That’s why we normally ice after treatment. Treatment lasts for approximately 5 minutes, depending on the area being treated, and may be followed by rehabilitation to further encourage healing.
Here’s a video showing how our non-surgical, non-invasive ESWT works.
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to treat pain and promote healing in chronic musculoskeletal conditions. These conditions often affect tendons, ligaments, and fascia and can cause pain in areas like the elbow, shoulder, heel, and foot.
Additionally, extracorporeal shock wave therapy can also be used for erectile dysfunction treatment, kidney stones, and low-intensity shock waves. It helps form new blood vessels, improves the healing process by addressing poor blood flow, and is a non-invasive treatment option for severe ED and hip pain.
Shockwave therapy (ESWT) is not necessarily a permanent cure, but it can be highly effective in reducing pain and promoting healing for various musculoskeletal conditions. The therapy works by stimulating blood flow, reducing inflammation, and enhancing tissue regeneration. However, the outcomes can vary depending on the individual and the specific condition being treated.
While some patients may experience long-term relief and significant improvement in their symptoms, others might need additional treatments or maintenance sessions. It’s also important to follow through with any recommended rehabilitation exercises or lifestyle changes to support the healing process and prevent injury recurrence.
Overall, shockwave therapy can be a valuable part of a comprehensive treatment plan, but it is not guaranteed to be a permanent solution for all patients.
Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) can cause discomfort or pain during treatment, but this varies from patient to patient. The sensation experienced during the therapy is often described as a series of sharp tapping or throbbing sensations at the treatment site. The level of discomfort usually depends on the intensity of the shockwaves used and the sensitivity of the treated area.
The discomfort is usually manageable and typically subsides shortly after the session. Some patients may experience mild soreness or bruising in the treated area, similar to what one might feel after intense exercise, but these side effects are generally short-lived.
The frequency and number of Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) sessions can vary depending on the specific condition, its severity, and the individual patient’s response to the therapy. Generally, a typical treatment plan might involve:
Patients might require additional sessions or follow-up treatments for some chronic conditions to maintain their benefits. The healthcare provider will assess the patient’s progress and determine the optimal number of sessions needed.
After undergoing shockwave therapy (ESWT), it is essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure optimal recovery and treatment effectiveness. Here are some general recommendations on what to avoid:
Refrain from intense physical activities, heavy lifting, or high-impact exercises for at least 48 hours after treatment. This allows the treated area to heal and reduces the risk of aggravating the condition.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or aspirin should be avoided for a few days after the treatment, as they can interfere with the body’s natural healing process that ESWT aims to stimulate.
Do not apply ice or cold packs to the treated area. Cold therapy can counteract the inflammatory response induced by shockwave therapy, which is essential for healing.
Limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding smoking can help improve blood circulation and enhance the healing process.
Avoid hot tubs and saunas and apply heat to the treated area for at least 48 hours after treatment, as these can increase inflammation and discomfort.
Do not massage or apply pressure to the treated area for a few days to allow the tissues to recover.
Yes, you can walk after undergoing Shockwave Therapy (ESWT). While you might experience some mild discomfort or soreness in the treated area, walking is generally safe and can be beneficial for maintaining mobility and promoting circulation. However, avoiding strenuous activities, running, or high-impact exercises for at least 48 hours post-treatment is advisable to allow the area to heal correctly.
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) is generally safe for many individuals, but certain groups of people should avoid it. These include:
Don’t let pain hold you back! Discover the benefits of Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) today. Our non-invasive treatments can help you heal faster, reduce pain, and improve your quality of life. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, sports injuries, or musculoskeletal conditions, ESWT Malaysia is here to support your journey to wellness. Make a booking today to experience the knee pain relief you need.
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