Shock wave therapy is a non-invasive therapy that has gained popularity for treating chronic pain and musculoskeletal conditions. In sporting injuries, joint pain, which is cumulative over time, and other conditions, this form of treatment is usually prescribed when the traditional means of treatment, such as medication or physiotherapy, have failed to produce lasting effects. But people often wonder whether shock wave therapy treatment is painful. Knowing what the process is like and what to anticipate may help eliminate fears and prepare you better for the process.
The Basics of Shock Wave Therapy
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) or shock wave therapy treatment is a therapeutic method that involves the use of sound waves to enhance the healing of injured tissues. These waves infiltrate the skin and attack the conditioned parts of the body, which include tendons, ligaments, and muscles. The intention is to enhance blood flow, decrease inflammation, and stimulate normal tissue healing.
It is usually used in the treatment of conditions like plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, shoulder tendinitis, and calcific deposits. Being non-surgical and drug-free, it is a safer option than other invasive procedures.
Does Shock Wave Therapy Hurt?
It can bring some discomfort, yet it is usually bearable. Pain during shock wave therapy varies among individuals and is dependent on a number of variables such as condition severity, region treated, and personal pain tolerance.
You can also experience a tapping or pulsing sensation during the procedure when the shock waves are being delivered. The sensation may be sharper or slightly stronger in those regions of the body where the tissue is more sensitive or inflamed. Most patients, however, report it to be uncomfortable, but not really painful.
The therapist will adjust the intensity based on your comfort level. In case of too strong sensation, the therapist will be able to decrease the pressure so that it is a manageable experience.
What Happens During the Session
A normal shock wave therapy treatment is a simple one and normally takes 15-30 minutes.
- Initial Assessment
The therapist will also explore the affected region to find the point of pain or injury before commencing. This guarantees accuracy in targeting the treatment.
- Application of Gel
To allow shock waves to penetrate tissue well, a gel is placed on top of the skin.
- Delivery of Shock Waves
The therapist uses a handheld device to administer controlled pulses to the treatment area. During the session, you can experience rhythmic pulses or vibrations.
- Adjustment of Intensity
The intensity can begin at a low level and progressively get higher depending on your tolerance. This phase is important to communicate with your therapist.
How Does It Feel After the Session?
Slight soreness or tenderness of the treated part might be expected after the treatment. The sensation is comparable to muscle pain following exercise and usually goes away in a day or two.
Patients might experience slight redness or swelling, which are temporary side effects and do not normally disrupt daily activities. Some individuals are able to resume their work or usual routine right after the session.
What is the Number of Sessions Required?
The length of sessions will depend on the condition to be treated and its severity. The average patient requires 3-6 sessions with a time interval of a week.
Some can feel better after the initial session, but others can experience gradual relief with time as the body adjusts to the treatment. It is significant to be consistent in recording the best outcomes.
Advice for a More Comfortable Experience
Here are some simple measures that you may take to ensure that the procedure is comfortable:
- Be calm: Tense body muscles may make you extra sensitive to pain.
- Be open: Let your therapist know the way you are feeling in order to adjust the intensity.
- Aftercare advice: Avoid vigorous activity in the areas treated for a while.
- Stay hydrated: Adequate hydration helps in recovery and healing.
Is It Worth It?
The short-term discomfort of shock wave therapy treatment is a minor sacrifice for long-term pain relief. This therapy directly addresses the root cause of the pain, unlike drugs that merely serve to cover up the symptoms, thus ensuring healing starts internally.
Trust Us for the Best Shock Wave Therapy
Physio Healing Hands is a leading neuro-musculoskeletal physiotherapy clinic providing shock wave therapy treatment for pain relief. Get in touch with us today to book an appointment and start your recovery journey now.