Shock wave physiotherapy: what it is for and how it works

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive form of treatment that uses a device that sends sound waves through the body to relieve some types of inflammation and stimulate the growth and repair of various types of injuries, especially at the muscle or bone level. , and it is important that it is recommended by the physiotherapist.

This type of treatment emits waves at a specific frequency that is capable of promoting the activation of tissue metabolism, and can be used to treat cellulite, tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, bursitis or tennis elbow, for example.

Although it has good results in relieving symptoms, shockwave therapy does not always cure the problem, especially when it involves changes in the bone, such as spurs, which may require surgery.

What is it for

Shock waves are used to:

• Reduce inflammation locally, which helps relieve swelling and local pain;
• Stimulate the formation of new blood vesselsas it facilitates the repair of the injury, as it increases the amount of blood and oxygen in the region;
• Increase collagen production, which is important to maintain the repair of muscles, bones and tendons.

Furthermore, this method also reduces the amount of substance P in the area, which is an element that is present in high concentrations in cases of chronic pain.

When is indicated

Physiotherapy treatment with shock waves may be indicated in the following situations:

• Chronic changes in tendonssuch as plantar fasciitis, inflammation of the Achilles tendon, patellar tendinitis, calcifying tendonitis of the shoulder and tennis elbow, for example;
• Bone problemssuch as pseudoarthritis, stress fractures and delayed healing in bone healing, osteonecrosis and osteochondritis dissecans;
• Skin problemssuch as delayed or non-healing of wounds, skin ulcers, cellulitis and burn wounds.

Furthermore, there are other situations in which shock wave physiotherapy treatment may be indicated, such as bursitis, heel spurs or carpal tunnel syndrome, for example.

How it is made

Shock wave therapy is practically painless, however, the physiotherapist can use an anesthetic ointment to numb the area to be treated, in order to alleviate any discomfort caused by the device.

During the procedure, the person must be in a comfortable position that allows the professional to reach the area to be treated. Then, a gel is applied to the area to facilitate the glide of the device into the treatment site.

In most cases, 3 to 10 sessions of 5 to 20 minutes are needed to completely eliminate the pain and repair the injury and the person can return home immediately after treatment, without the need for special care.

When it is not indicated

Physiotherapy treatment with shock waves is considered quite safe, however, it is important that this therapy is carried out by a trained professional, as this makes it possible to ensure that the equipment is calibrated and the appropriate current frequency is being applied to the type of condition. treatment.

It is also recommended that shockwave therapy not be performed over sites such as the lungs, eyes or brain. In addition, it should also be avoided in the belly area of ​​pregnant women or above areas with cancer, as it can stimulate tumor growth.