Shockwave Therapy for Musculoskeletal Disorders: Accelerating Healing and Relieving Chronic Pain

Physiocore applies shockwave therapy (SWT), also called extracorporeal shockwave therapy, to treat various musculoskeletal disorders using low energy acoustic wave pulsations. We specialize in shockwave therapy for musculoskeletal disorders, including tendons, ligaments, and joint structures.

Since the mid-90s, shockwave therapy has been available in Canada, but its popularity has increased with the introduction of low energy SWT. This procedure actively stimulates the body’s natural healing process and medical research has proven its effectiveness in reducing pain by directly affecting nerve endings.

How Shockwave Therapy Works for Musculoskeletal Disorders

Shockwave therapy utilizes acoustic shock waves that pass through the skin and target injured areas. These audible, mechanical waves have lower energy compared to other medical applications and are non-electric.

The procedure works by enhancing blood flow to the affected area, accelerating the healing process of musculoskeletal disorders. Studies indicate that shockwaves promote re-vascularization, leading to the formation of new blood vessels that supply tendons, ligaments, bones, and surrounding tissues affected by musculoskeletal disorders. Shockwaves are also believed to stimulate the release of local growth factors and have a profound impact on stem cells.

There are two types of shockwaves: low energy and high energy. While both are effective, we will focus on the latter. At Physiocore, our high energy shockwave can be precisely targeted to the injured area, resulting in several effects:

  1. Increased cell membrane permeability, which enhances microscopic circulation and metabolism. This promotes natural healing and may aid in the dissolution of calcific deposits within the injured tissue.
  2. Stimulation of osteoblasts, responsible for new bone production.
  3. Stimulation of fibroblasts, responsible for the repair of connective tissues.

The procedure also reduces pain through two mechanisms. Firstly, hyperstimulation anesthesia overwhelms nerve endings with a barrage of stimuli, resulting in short-term pain reduction. Secondly, the gate control mechanism stimulates nerves in a way that the brain perceives the stimuli before the pain, leading to long-term pain reduction.

Conditions of the Musculoskeletal System Treatable with Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is increasingly prevalent in physiotherapy as an advanced treatment option for a range of musculoskeletal disorders, including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, calcific tendinitis, retrocalcaneal bursitis, Morton’s neuroma, and more. It is particularly suitable for individuals with chronic tendinopathies lasting over six weeks that have not responded to other treatment regimens.

Shockwave therapy can effectively address various conditions, including but not limited to:

  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Achilles Tendinopathy
  • Calcific Tendinitis (Rotator Cuff)
  • Retrocalcaneal Bursitis
  • Morton’s Neuroma
  • Hip Pain, Shoulder Pain
  • Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome
  • Heel Spurs, Hallux Rigidus (Stiff Toe)
  • Lateral Epicondylosis (Tennis Elbow)
  • Medial Epicondylosis (Golfer’s Elbow)
  • Patellar Tendinosis (Jumper’s Knee)
  • Chronic Stress/Non-union Fractures

Is Shockwave Therapy Safe for Musculoskeletal Disorders? Understanding the Side Effects

Shockwave therapy proves highly safe and successful, boasting a 20-year track record in European medical facilities. As a non-surgical alternative, it minimizes risks, eliminating anesthesia, downtime, and medication. However, not everyone is eligible due to factors such as pregnancy, cancer, clotting disorders, pacemakers, blood thinners, local infection, age (<16 years), recent cortisone injections, or steroid injection within three months. Consult our specialists to determine suitability.

Post-procedure, temporary tenderness, soreness, or swelling may occur as shockwaves trigger an inflammatory response. These are natural healing processes, requiring no additional intervention. Refrain from painkillers or anti-inflammatory medication, as they hinder results. Resume daily activities promptly, but avoid strenuous exertion for 48 hours to maximize healing and benefits.

Administering Shockwave Therapy for Musculoskeletal Disorders: Procedure and Process

On your first visit, our physiotherapist will conduct an assessment and take your full medical history to make sure that you are an ideal candidate for shockwave therapy.  The procedure is pre-planned by marking the trigger points and the injured area. An ultrasonic gel is applied then theSWT handpiece is positioned to begin transmitting shockwaves. The handpiece delivers gently compressed air impulses through the gel. The whole procedure lasts approximately 15 minutes.

Depending on the results, shockwave therapy is usually performed once a week for 3-6 weeks. The treatment can cause mild discomfort but your physiotherapist can adjust the intensity to keep it tolerable. The majority ofpatients report substantial improvement after just one treatment session. Success rates are 80% and rise to as high as 90% with a second treatment.

Does OHIP Cover Shockwave Therapy?

The Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) does not cover shockwave therapy. However, select private medical or drug plans, as well as certain extended benefit plans, may provide coverage. We suggest checking with your provider or contacting our staff at Physiocore to explore coverage options. Considering the significant benefits and relief experienced after just one or two treatment sessions, the affordability of shockwave therapy is sure to pleasantly surprise you.

Getting Started with Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy treats chronic injuries or pain resulting from musculoskeletal injuries. It’s a conservative treatment that works when traditional therapies fail to provide relief. Surgery or medications are not required as the therapy aims to activate your body’s natural healing power.

Physiocore, a trusted rehab therapy clinic in Ontario, offers shockwave therapy. We have earned an excellent reputation by providing outstanding care as a multi-disciplinary injury rehab center. With our team’s 40 years of combined experience, we take pride in helping you achieve fast recovery. Call us at 905-882-1908 or book an appointment to discover how we can assist you on your journey to recovery.

For more information on how shockwave therapy affects the morphology of musculoskeletal tissues, check out this systematic review and meta-analysis.