Shockwave treatments for elbow pain and injuries
Shockwave treatment for elbows is a revolutionary form of therapy that uses sound waves to treat common orthopedic conditions. It is a minimally invasive, non-surgical alternative for relieving joint pain, improving range of motion, and accelerating healing. This article series provides a comprehensive look at the use of shockwave therapy for the elbow, including its benefits and risks, and how to choose a qualified provider.
Anatomy of the elbow
The elbow is a complex joint which combines the three bones of the upper arm—the humerus, radius, and ulna—to form a hinge joint. This joint enables the bending and straightening of the arm, as well as rotation of the forearm. The common flexor tendon and common extensor tendons are the two main tendons. The ulnar nerve, radial nerve, and medial nerve all cross the elbow.
Conditions treated by Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is most commonly used to treat tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, and bursitis. It can also be used to treat tendonitis, tendon tears, and peripheral nerve entrapments featuring the ulnar, median, and radial nerve. Scientific studies have shown that shockwave therapy is an effective treatment for these common elbow conditions.
Shockwave Treatments work: Real-world example
A 35-year old CrossFit athlete came into my office complaining of numbness in her pinky every time she bent her wrist. An MRI of her neck was negative and no one seemed to be able to figure out where the numbness came from. Upon examination, we found her ulnar nerve entrapped at her elbow and 3 sessions of shockwave therapy freed it, resulting in a 95% improvement in her condition.
How Shockwave Therapy is administered to the elbows
Shockwave therapy for the elbow involves the delivery of high-energy sound waves to the affected area. The treatment typically takes between 5-10 minutes and is typically administered in a series of three to five treatments. The intensity and frequency of the sound waves can be adjusted to meet the individual needs of the patient. For most effective results, the patient is placed into a position where the target tissue is lengthened.
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for the elbow
Shockwave therapy offers many potential benefits for the elbow, including pain reduction, improved range of motion, accelerated healing,increased circulation, and reduced adhesion. Scientific studies have demonstrated that shockwave therapy is an effective treatment for many common elbow conditions.
Risks and side effects
The risks and side effects of shockwave therapy are usually mild and often temporary. Common side effects include temporary skin reddening, swelling, and bruising. In rare cases, the treatment can cause nerve damage, but this can be minimized by using a qualified provider and proper technique.
Choosing a Shockwave Therapy provider
When choosing a shockwave therapy provider, it’s important to make sure they have the qualifications and experience to administer the treatment safely and effectively. Ensure that your doctor gives you an complete diagnosis. Additionally, it’s important to make sure they have the appropriate shockwave therapy equipment. Other factors to consider include the provider’s reputation, cost, and location. Because this technology is emerging, it’s best to select a provider with a proven track-record of fixing chronic pain.
Shockwave treatments can help with your elbow pain and injuries
Shockwave therapy for the elbow is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive treatment for common orthopedic conditions. It can be used to reduce pain, improve range of motion, and accelerate healing. The risks and side effects are usually mild and temporary, and the treatment can be tailored to meet the individual needs of the patient. When choosing a provider, it’s important to make sure they are qualified and experienced, and that they have the appropriate shockwave therapy equipment. This article series has provided a comprehensive overview of the use of shockwave therapy for the elbow, and we hope it has been helpful in understanding the potential benefits and risks of the treatment.
