In recent years, shockwave therapy has emerged as a promising treatment option for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions.
Patients suffering from chronic pain, tendinopathy, and other musculoskeletal disorders may be recommended to undergo shockwave therapy. However, many patients are unaware of the healthcare practitioners who can perform this therapy.
In this article, we will explore the role of physiotherapists in administering shockwave therapy.
What is shockwave therapy?
Shockwave therapy in Edmonton is a non-invasive form of treatment that uses shockwaves to stimulate the body’s natural healing process.
It is also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) and is often used to treat musculoskeletal conditions such as plantar fasciitis, tendinopathy, and tennis elbow.
During shockwave therapy, high-energy acoustic waves are delivered to the affected area of the body. The vibrations from the shockwaves penetrate through the skin and are believed to stimulate the body’s natural healing process.
The treatment is typically administered in a series of sessions, with each session lasting anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes.
To get more details on shockwave therapy, you can contact Turning Point Physical Therapy in Edmonton, AB.
Do physiotherapists do shockwave therapy?
Yes, many physiotherapists are trained to administer shockwave therapy. Physiotherapists who offer this therapy often have experience working with patients suffering from musculoskeletal conditions.
The following are the roles of physiotherapists in administering shockwave therapy:
Assessment
Physiotherapists who administer shockwave therapy typically begin by conducting a thorough assessment of the patient’s condition.
They will review the patient’s medical history, perform a physical examination, and may also order diagnostic tests to identify the underlying cause of the patient’s pain.
Treatment planning
Once the physiotherapist has completed the assessment, they will develop a customized treatment plan based on the patient’s specific needs. This plan may include a combination of shockwave therapy, exercise therapy, manual therapy, and physiotherapy in Edmonton.
Shockwave therapy administration
The physiotherapist will administer shockwave therapy to the affected area of the body using a device that delivers acoustic waves. The number of sessions needed will depend on the patient’s individual needs and the severity of their condition.
Post-treatment rehabilitation
After the patient has undergone shockwave therapy, the physiotherapist will work with the patient to develop an exercise program to help strengthen the affected area and prevent future injury.
The physiotherapist may also provide manual therapy to help loosen any tight muscles or fascia in the affected area.
Benefits of shockwave therapy
The following are the benefits of shockwave therapy:
Non-invasive
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive form of treatment, which means that it does not involve any surgical procedures. This makes it an attractive treatment option for patients who want to avoid more invasive forms of treatment.
Minimal downtime
Unlike surgical procedures, shockwave therapy typically requires minimal downtime. Many patients are able to return to their normal activities immediately after the treatment.
Cost-effective
Shockwave therapy is often a more cost-effective treatment option compared to surgical procedures. This is because it does not require a lengthy hospital stay or extensive post-operative care.
Effective in treating a variety of conditions
Shockwave therapy has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including plantar fasciitis, tendinopathy, and tennis elbow.
Helps avoid surgery
One of the main benefits of shockwave therapy is that it can help patients avoid surgery. When facing a chronic musculoskeletal condition, surgery may be seen as the only option for pain relief, especially if other treatments have been unsuccessful.
However, surgery comes with inherent risks, including potential complications from anesthesia, as well as post-operative pain and downtime.
Reduces the need for pain medication
Another benefit of shockwave therapy is that it can help reduce the need for pain medication. Many patients with musculoskeletal conditions rely on pain medications to manage their symptoms, but these drugs can have undesirable side effects and may be addictive.
By using shockwave therapy instead of medication as part of a multi-modal pain management approach, patients may be able to lower their reliance on painkillers.
Improves quality of life
Shockwave therapy can help improve the overall quality of life for patients with musculoskeletal conditions.
Living with chronic pain can affect a patient’s ability to perform daily activities, negatively impact their mental health, and erode their overall well-being.
By reducing pain and improving the range of motion in the affected area, shockwave therapy can help patients return to normal activities, improve their mood, and restore their overall quality of life.
Conclusion
Physiotherapists are capable of administering shockwave therapy to patients suffering from musculoskeletal conditions. By offering this non-invasive form of treatment, physiotherapists can help patients manage their pain and improve their overall function.
If you are suffering from chronic pain or a musculoskeletal condition, talk to your physiotherapist to see if shockwave therapy is right for you.
You can also contact Turning Point Physical Therapy in Edmonton, AB, for more details on the role of physiotherapists in shockwave therapy.