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Radial Shockwave Therapy

What is Radial Shockwave Therapy

A non-invasive treatment which involves creating a series of low energy acoustic wave pulsations which are directly applied to the site of injury through the client's skin via a gel medium. The concept and technology originally evolved from the discovery that focused sound waves were capable of breaking down kidney and gallstones. Subsequently, generated shockwaves were successful in scientific studies for the treatment of often chronic conditions such as plantar fascitis, Achilles tendonitis, jumper's Knee's, calcific tendonitis, bursitis, and trigger points. (91% improvement in Calcific Tendonitis - Journal of American Medical Association 2003; 77% improvement for Tennis Elbow - The Journal of Orthopedics 2005; 90% improvement for Plantar Fascitis - Journal of Orthopaedic Research 2005)

How Radial Shockwave Therapy Works

It works by stimulating the injured tissues causing cellular permeability, mitochondrial, endoplasmic reticulum, and cell nucleus changes. The acoustic pulsations also mechanically stimulate the area which has been scientifically proven to assist breaking down calcifications. This is not surprising since the original use of shock waves were to break down kidney stones. There is additional benefit such as hyperstimulation of the nerve endings leading to immediate pain reduction. Neurovascularization of the area is also found with the use of radial shock wave which assist with the healing and new tissue regeneration of the injured areas. More recently, it has been found that Radial Shockwave can be effective for releasing trigger points in muscles. Overall, Radial Shockwave can assist the body's natural healing ability.

Precautions/Contra-indications to Radial Shockwave

You may not qualify for Radial Shockwave if you have any of the following. Caution may be required. It is very important that we know if you have any of the following before considering undergoing Radial Shockwave Treatment:
  • Cortisone injection within the last 6 weeks
  • Bleeding disorder (eg. Von Willebrand disease, haemophilia, etc.)
  • Blood thinning medications (eg. Heparin, Warfarin, Coumadin)
  • Heart or circulatory problems (eg. Pacemaker)
  • Cancer
  • Diabetes
  • Pregnancy
  • Blood or nerve supplies too close to affected area
  • Open wound over the site to be treated
  • Poorly localized or non palpable area of pain
  • Inflammation or Infection at the site of treatment (signs include redness, swelling, fever, etc)
  • Cognitive difficulties(unable to follow directions or follow directions; Alzheimer's disease, senile demential, etc)

What to Expect During Treatment

Treatment is usually measured in the amount of shocks applied. 500-3000 shocks are usually required per injury location. Normally 3 sessions are necessary. In rare incidences, additional sessions may be required for chronic conditions. Treatment is typically uncomfortable and may cause some pain, but it is normally tolerable.

What to Expect After Treatment

Many clients experience a decrease or complete absence of pain immediately after treatment. Bruising, swelling, and on rare occasions, skin breakdown may occur. There may be some soreness 1-2 hours afterwards due to an inflammatory response of the body to the shockwave. This is NORMAL and is your body's way of healing itself and regenerating the targeted tissue. This discomfort usually subsides after 1-2 days.
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