What to Expect During a Shockwave Therapy Appointment: A Comprehensive Guide

Note: Shockwave therapy is a different form of treatment from electro-convulsive therapy (ECT), which is not commonly used in physical therapy and often involves anesthesia and the induction of controlled seizures in the brain. Shockwave therapy, on the other hand, is a non-invasive procedure that has shown to be effective for several musculoskeletal conditions.

Conditions Treated by Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is primarily used for the treatment of various musculoskeletal conditions, including:

Myofascial Triggers Trapezitis Calcific Tendinitis Adhesive Capsulitis Plantar Fasciitis Lateral / Medial Epicondylitis IT Band Stiffness Gluteus Triggers

Understanding Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy, part of the electrotherapy segment, utilizes high-intensity sound waves to break down painful tissue and stimulate healing. Here are the key specifications:

Shock Intensity

Shock intensity ranges from 1.0 to 5.0 Bar, providing adjustable treatment levels tailored to the condition.

Shock Frequency

The frequency of shocks can be set from 1 to 20 Hz, allowing for precise adjustment of the treatment.

Treatment Duration

The therapy period can be set for up to 9999 individual shocks, enabling extended treatments if required.

Resolution Settings

For fine-tuning, the intensity and frequency can be adjusted to as low as 0.1 Bar and 1 Hz, respectively.

Applicators

Two applicators, TD 20 and TD 15, are used based on the affected muscle group:

TD 20 (20 mm diameter) for larger muscle groups TD 15 (15 mm diameter) for smaller muscle groups

Preparation for Your Shockwave Therapy Appointment

When you visit us for shockwave therapy, our physiotherapists will first conduct a thorough assessment of your condition. This process typically takes around 5 minutes. If shockwave therapy is deemed appropriate, we will proceed to prepare you for the treatment.

What to Expect Before the Treatment

Before the shockwave therapy, a number of steps are taken to ensure your safety and comfort:

Initial consultation to assess your condition Adjustable intensity and frequency settings to suit your needs Proper application of the shockwave treatment using the appropriate applicator

During the Shockwave Therapy Appointment

The actual shockwave treatment is a relatively short and comfortable procedure. Here’s what to expect during the appointment:

Step-by-Step Procedure

You will be asked to lie on your back on a comfortable bed. A physiotherapist will carefully position the shockwave applicator over the affected area. The treatment will begin, and you may feel a mild, quick tingling sensation. The therapy period will last for the duration set by your physiotherapist, typically a few minutes. After the treatment, you may experience some mild soreness, which is normal and manageable.

After Your Shockwave Therapy Appointment

Following the shockwave therapy, you can expect the following outcomes:

Immediate Aftereffects

Mild soreness or tenderness at the treatment site Should not require any special care May experience some increased pain within 24-48 hours, which is a normal part of the healing process

Follow-Up Care

Additional treatments or follow-up sessions may be recommended, depending on your progress. Our physiotherapists may also recommend:

Massaging the affected area to enhance blood circulation and relief Joint mobilization to improve mobility and flexibility Exercise prescription to strengthen the muscles and prevent recurrence Taping the area to provide support and reduce pain Education on post-treatment care and self-management techniques

Conclusion

Shockwave therapy is a powerful non-invasive treatment that can significantly alleviate pain and improve function for various musculoskeletal conditions. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can expect a comfortable and effective treatment experience.