Shockwave treatment aims to reduce discomfort and help you regain physical strength by enhancing collagen formation, releasing growth factors, and breaking up calcifications that might appear in your soft tissue due to trauma. This procedure accelerates the recovery of complex musculoskeletal diseases that restrict your movement or make it painful. But before you seek the most reliable clinic in Sydney for shockwave therapy, you must learn how it works and why it will speed up your recovery.

Shockwaves were initially used in clinical settings to treat urologic problems in 1982. This technology's success in treating urinary stones soon established it as a first-line, non-invasive, and efficient treatment. It was subsequently investigated in orthopedics, where it was discovered that it could strengthen the bone-cement interface, promote osteogenic response, and improve fracture healing.

Who Benefits from Shockwave Treatment?

Shockwave treatment is a safe option for musculoskeletal problems and chronic pain since it comes with minimal risks when administered by trained therapists. It is an efficient way to enhance functionality when suffering from ailments such as tennis elbow, shin splints, painful shoulder, jumper's knee, hip pain, chronic pelvic pain syndrome, and tendinitis. You can read more about how scientists work on new ways shockwaves can improve healthcare.

It's crucial to remember that although shockwave therapy has been effective in many circumstances, it might not be appropriate for everyone. Candidates who are pregnant, have specific medical issues or are on certain drugs should consult a health professional before trying the therapy.

The Procedure

The majority of patients say the treatment was mildly uncomfortable but not in any way painful. Certain body areas, like the hip bone, can be more sensitive than other parts, like the calves, which have more muscle and less skin. Your comfort will vary depending on where your chronic pain resides.

Wear clothing that allows access to the treatment region when you go for shockwave therapy. If you'd prefer, disposable shorts and gowns are available. After you are placed in a comfortable position, your skin will first be treated with a water-based gel. The handheld applicator will gradually increase the pulses as it applies pressure waves to your skin to reach a therapeutic level.

What is TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) 

It might be challenging to distinguish between shockwaves and TENS because both are used to relieve pain. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, or TENS, is a technique for pain relief without drugs. This method applies electrodes to the skin over the painful location. The electrical impulses that the electrodes emit stimulate the nerves while preventing the brain from receiving pain signals. The outcome is a tingling sensation that's frequently compared to a light massage. Back pain, migraines, and other chronic pain disorders are commonly treated using TENS. It is a risk-free and efficient substitute for painkillers that can be done at home or with a healthcare professional's supervision.

On the other hand, shockwave treatment uses high-intensity soundwaves to apply mechanical pressure to the injured area to stimulate the body's natural healing process. It is the best treatment for chronic diseases like plantar fasciitis or tennis elbow. At the same time, TENS is frequently used for acute pain, such as that brought on by a muscular strain or injury. Shockwave therapy, unlike TENS, tackles the root of the pain rather than just concealing the symptoms. Therefore, its effects might continue for several months.

Put an End to Chronic Pain

Most patients who receive shockwave treatment have a pain reduction equivalent to other conservative treatments and an improvement in how well the affected part moves. Typically, a minimum of 3 sessions and a maximum of 5 treatments are advised. In a trial for hamstring tendinopathy, 85% of patients showed at least a 50% reduction in pain after three months.

According to studies, using shockwaves can help people with plantar fasciitis feel less discomfort and perform better. Success rates vary. However, some research indicates that roughly 70–80% of cases have a positive outcome. The same favorable results are seen for breaking down calcium deposits in the shoulder.

A Safe Alternative to Invasive Surgery

Since this therapy's creation more than 50 years ago, there has been an increasing number of applications for it, and researchers are always coming up with new ways to use low-energy shockwaves to assist patients in managing pain and regenerating tissue. The main reason for its popularity is the fact that it's non-invasive.

Instead of setting aside time for a drawn-out surgical recovery, you can keep your day-to-day life while receiving shockwave therapy in Sydney for plantar fasciitis, bursitis, or tennis elbow. Patients typically receive 2 or 3 sessions as a trial run from practitioners.

How Fast Will You See Results?

After only a few shockwave treatment sessions, some patients may experience less pain or more mobility. These improvements are caused by the immediate impacts of increased blood flow and the activation of healing processes. With each session, the full advantages become more apparent. Most treatment regimens call for many sessions spaced out over several weeks.

Like any medical procedure, there are several patient-specific aspects to consider. The severity of the ailment, the person's general health, compliance with post-treatment suggestions, and any extra therapies or exercises suggested can all affect how quickly a person recovers.

What is The Cost of Shockwave Therapy in Sydney?

The price of shockwave therapy in Sydney or anywhere else can differ significantly depending on various variables, including the clinic or healthcare provider, the disease being treated, the required sessions, and the local healthcare market.

Reports of costs range from approximately AUD 100 to AUD 300 per session. Speaking directly with clinics, physiotherapy facilities, or healthcare professionals is highly advised. They can give specifics regarding their particular pricing structure, any additional costs, and whether there are any package deals offered for consecutive sessions. Review the terms and conditions of your insurance policy's papers. Your needs may fall within physiotherapy or rehabilitation services. Therefore, look for information on these topics.

Publication: 10/10/2023 11:00