Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy, is a non-invasive treatment modality used for various musculoskeletal conditions, mainly focusing on the treatment of tendon issues. It involves the delivery of acoustic waves to targeted tissues, inducing a response that promotes healing and tissue regeneration.
Shockwave therapy has been studied extensively for various tendon issues, including:
Plantar Fasciitis: Studies have shown that shockwave therapy can significantly reduce pain and improve function in patients with plantar fasciitis. A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research in 2018 concluded that shockwave therapy is an effective treatment for plantar fasciitis, with significant improvements in pain and function compared to placebo or other conservative treatments.
Achilles Tendinopathy: Shockwave therapy has been shown to promote tendon healing and reduce pain in patients with Achilles tendinopathy. A study published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine in 2007 found that shockwave therapy resulted in a significant improvement in pain and function in patients with chronic Achilles tendinopathy, with 65% of patients reporting good or excellent outcomes at 6-month follow-up.
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis): A randomized controlled trial published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine in 2002 found that shockwave therapy provided significant pain relief and functional improvement in patients with chronic tennis elbow compared to placebo treatment.
These are just a few examples of the many tendon issues that can be treated with shockwave therapy. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if shockwave therapy is appropriate for your specific condition and to develop a personalized treatment plan.
References:
Gerdesmeyer L, et al. (2008). Radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy is safe and effective in the treatment of chronic recalcitrant plantar fasciitis. American Journal of Sports Medicine, 36(11), 2100-2109.
Speed CA, et al. (2002). Extracorporeal shock-wave therapy in the management of chronic soft-tissue conditions. Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery - British Volume, 84(4), 509-512.
Rompe JD, et al. (2007). Shock wave therapy for chronic Achilles tendon pain: a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research, 456, 201-208.