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Shock wave is an advanced technology used in physiotherapy to treat various musculoskeletal conditions. In the article below, we will discuss what exactly a shock wave is, how rehabilitation using it is carried out, who can benefit from this therapy, as well as its contraindications and potential side effects.
Shock wave – what is it?
A shock wave is a wave form of acoustic energy that has been used in medicine for over thirty years. It is a non-invasive therapeutic method that involves generating high-energy sound waves and focusing them on the area of the body requiring therapy. The shock wave is mainly used to treat injuries to muscle tissue, tendons, joints and other diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
Shock wave in physiotherapy – what is the treatment?
During shock wave therapy, the patient is subjected to a series of acoustic impulses of varying intensity. These impulses penetrate the skin and reach deeper body structures. The main goal of therapy is to stimulate repair processes in damaged tissues, improve blood and lymph circulation, and reduce pain and inflammation. The procedure itself is usually painless and takes about 15-20 minutes.
Shock wave – indications for shock wave therapy
Shockwave therapy is effective in treating many conditions and ailments, including:
- Chronic back pain
- Myofascial pain syndrome
- Tendinitis
- Joint pain
- Muscle contusions
- Intervertebral disc prolapse
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Shallow lateral knee arthritis
Shock wave therapy can also be used to restore full fitness after sports injuries and as part of the treatment of post-traumatic scars.
Shock wave – contraindications
Despite the numerous benefits of shock wave therapy, there are also situations in which its use is inadvisable. Contraindications to therapy are:
- Pregnancy
- Skin infections in the treatment area
- Blood clotting disorders
- Cancers in the treatment area
- Cardiovascular disease
- Metal implants in the treatment area
Before starting shock wave therapy, always consult your doctor or physiotherapist to rule out contraindications.
Shock wave – effects of shock wave treatment
Shockwave therapy can provide many benefits, including:
- Pain reduction
- Improving blood and lymph circulation
- Stimulation of repair processes in tissues
- Reducing inflammation
- Restoration of mobility
- Increasing tissue elasticity
Many people notice improvement after just a few treatments, but the full effects of therapy may require several weeks or even months of regular sessions.
Shock wave – side effects
Shockwave therapy is generally considered safe, however, some side effects may occur, such as:
- Temporary pain or swelling after the procedure
- Skin discoloration
- A feeling of tingling or numbness
Side effects are usually mild and transient, but it is worth informing your physiotherapist about them.
Your suggestions
If you have any questions about shock wave therapy or would like to share your experiences, please leave a comment below the article.
Recommended articles
If you are interested in the topic of rehabilitation and physical therapy, we also recommend reading our other articles on this topic:
- “How to choose the right physiotherapist?”
- “Kinesitherapy – the role of movement in the rehabilitation process”
- “Kinesio taping – an effective therapy method”
Thank you for visiting our website and we wish you a speedy recovery!