Shockwave Treatments for back pain and injuries
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment option used to treat musculoskeletal issues, such as joint pain, tendonitis, and myofascial pain. It is a form of acoustic wave therapy, which uses pulses of energy to eliminate adhesion and stimulate the body’s natural healing process. This article series will discuss the use of shockwave therapy for back pain and related conditions. Understanding how shockwave therapy works and the conditions it can treat is important for those suffering from back pain, so they can make an informed decision about their treatment options.
Anatomy of the Back
The back is a complex structure composed of bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. It provides support for the body, allows for movement, and protects the spinal cord and other organs. Each vertebral segment is composed of two bones, an intervertebral disc made of cartilage, and two nerve roots. Each segment is surrounded by spinal erectors and a multitude of ligaments. Common causes of back pain include adhesion, herniated discs, nerve entrapments, and osteoarthritis. Shockwave therapy can be used to treat these conditions by stimulating the body’s natural healing process, reducing inflammation, reducing adhesion and improving circulation.
Conditions treated by Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy can be effective for a variety of conditions affecting the back. These include herniated discs, sciatica, SI joint pain, facet joint syndrome, muscle spasm, and tendonitis. It can also be used to treat chronic pain due to degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis. In addition, scientific studies have shown that shockwave therapy can help reduce the pain associated with fibromyalgia.
Shockwave Treatments are effective: Real-world example
A 55 year-old hedge fund manager came in reporting chronic, deep, achy, pain in his lower back and at his SI joint. He reported getting only temporary relief from chiropractic adjustments. Upon examination, his lumbar spine flexibility was only 55%. We found adhesion and osteoarthritis was limiting his range, compressing his L5-S1 disc, and referring pain into the SI joint. After six treatments, in which we removed adhesion and killed senescence in his facet joints, discs, and ligaments, his flexibility improved to 85% and he reported a 50-75% improvement in his pain on a day to day basis.
How Shockwave Therapy is administered to the back
Shockwave therapy is administered using a handheld device that delivers acoustic waves to the area of the back being treated. Patients are typically placed into a position where the lower back is lengthened and decompressed for best results. The waves are focused on the affected area, penetrating deep into the tissue to stimulate the body’s natural healing process. The treatment protocol varies depending on the condition being treated and the individual’s needs, but typically consists of several sessions, each lasting anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes.
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for the back
Shockwave therapy can provide a number of benefits for the back, including pain reduction, improved range of motion, accelerated healing, and increased circulation. Scientific evidence has also shown that shockwave therapy can help reduce inflammation and improve the function of damaged joints. Shockwave therapy can also help regenerate discs and slow down the rate of degeneration.
Risks and side effects
Although shockwave therapy is generally safe and well tolerated, there can be some side effects, such as temporary soreness, swelling, and bruising. It is also important to note that there is a risk of damage to nearby organs, so it is important to consult with a qualified medical professional before undergoing the treatment. Avoid shockwave therapy to the lower back if you’re pregnant or trying to get pregnant. It must be noted that shockwave therapy to the lower back can free kidney stones so if you think you have kidney stones, please consult a urologist.
Choosing a Shockwave Therapy provider
When looking for a provider of shockwave therapy for the back, it is important to consider their qualifications and experience. Make sure your doctor gives you an accurate and complete diagnosis. The type of equipment used is also important, as some devices are better suited for certain conditions than others. Other factors to consider include the provider’s reputation, cost, and the duration and frequency of treatments. Because this is an emerging technology, be sure to chose a doctor that has a proven track-record of success.
Shockwave treatments can help your back
Shockwave therapy can be an effective treatment for a variety of conditions affecting the back, such as herniated discs, sciatica, facet joint syndrome, and tendonitis. It can provide pain relief, improved range of motion, accelerated healing, and increased circulation. However, there are some risks associated with the treatment, so it is important to consult with a qualified medical professional prior to undergoing the therapy. When selecting a provider, it is important to consider their qualifications and experience, as well as the type of equipment they use. With the right provider and treatment plan, shockwave therapy can provide effective relief from back pain.