What is extracorporeal radial shockwave therapy?
Extracorporeal Radial Shockwave Therapy is a series of high-energy percussions to the affected area. The shockwave
is a physical sound wave "shock", not an electric one. back to questions
1) Treatment produces an inflammatory
response. The body responds by increasing metabolic activity around the site of pain. This stimulates and accelerates the
healing process.
2) Shockwave breaks down scar tissue and possibly calcification as well
3) Transmission of pain is blocked.back to questions
Indications: Shockwave Therapy used Worldwide to treat:
| - Achilles Tendinopathy, Tendonitis
|
back to questions What are the benefits of Shockwave Treatment?
This
therapy works without the use of X-rays or drugs; it stimulates the body's natural self-healing process. There is actually
an immediate reduction of pain and improved ease of movement. Secondary effects are minor. Shockwave therapy may also eliminate your need for surgery.back to questions
How long does the treatment last?
2000 shocks are
administered per session, which last approximately 5 minutes.back to questions
How many treatments will I need?
Normally three
treatments are necessary at weekly intervals; there is a small possibility that 2 additional treatments may be necessary if
your condition is very chronic.back to questions
Does the treatment hurt?
It is a 5-minute treatment
that may be uncomfortableand most people are able to tolerate. However, if you cannot tolerate it, adjustments on the machine
can decrease the pressure you feel.back to questions
Will it hurt after the treatment?
There may be no
immediate pain, but some discomfort may be experienced 2-4 hours after the treatment. In some cases it can last up to
48 hours and in very rare cases, the pain lasted up to 5 days.back to questions
What should I do if I am in pain after the treatment?
The
shockwave will trigger an inflammatory response, which is the body's natural process of healing. For this reason, do not use
anti-inflammatory medications. Do not use ice. The pain should subside within 24 hours. Use Tylenol if necessary, provided
you have no trouble with this medication.back to questions
What if it feels good after the treatment?
Even
if it feels good, we recommend decreased activity for 48 hours following the treatment.back to questions
Is Shockwave Therapy covered by my insurance?
If
you have insurance you will want to ask your provider about the requirements of your coverage. You will be invoiced under
chiropody/extracorporeal radial shockwave therapy for foot and ankle treatment. For above the ankle, you will be
invoiced under Extracorporeal Radial Shockwave Therapy treatment.back to questions
What is the success rate of this kind of treatment?
A
successful treatment is considered as a patient having at least 75% reduction in pain within 3 months. Worldwide, success
rates are around 80 to 90%.back to questions
What if it doesn't work for me?
Although the short-term
effects alone are exceptional, the long-term benefits of this treatment may take up to 3-4 months. If after this time there
has not been any marked improvement, you should see your doctor for further treatment options.back to questions
Are there contraindications and/or precautions?
Contraindications
-
-
- Coagulation disorders, thrombosis, heart or circulatory patients
- Use of anticoagulants,
especially Marcumar, Heparin, Coumadin
- Tumour diseases, carcinoma, cancer patients
- Pregnancy
- Polyneuropathy in case of diabetes mellitus
- Acute
inflammations / pus focus in the target area
- Children in growth
- Cortisone
therapy up to 6 weeks before first treatment
- Blood or nerves supplies too close to the affected
area
Side effects
-
-
- Swelling, reddening, haematomas
- Petechiae
- Pain
- Skin lesions after previous cortisone therapy
These side effects
generally abate after 5 to 10 days. back to questions
Why am I asked to sign a consent form?
Pain can
increase temporarily. Bruising and or swelling are also possible. We want you to be informed of all aspects.
