Shockwave treatments for hand pain and injuries
Shockwave Therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive medical procedure used to provide relief from chronic pain and to accelerate healing. This article series is designed to provide an overview of the use of shockwave therapy for treating hand pain, including the anatomy of the hands, common conditions treated, the administration of shockwave therapy, and the potential benefits and risks.
Understanding the use of shockwave therapy for treating pain in the hands is important for those who suffer from chronic pain and those interested in finding effective treatments for joint pain.
Anatomy of the hands
The human hand is a complex structure composed of bones, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves, including the median nerve at the transverse carpal ligament (carpal tunnel). The hands are highly specialized for gripping and manipulating objects and for performing delicate tasks. The main function of the hand is to enable the use of tools and to enable communication through the use of sign language.
Most injuries of the hand result from overuse. Tendons build up adhesion, nerves build up adhesion, and your palmar fascia builds up adhesion.
Conditions treated by Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a safe and effective treatment for many conditions affecting the hands, including: carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, epicondylitis, tendinitis, trigger finger, osteoarthritis, and adhesion. It can also be used to treat chronic pain in the hands caused by repetitive strain injuries.
Scientific evidence supports the use of shockwave therapy for the treatment of hand pain. Studies have shown that shockwave therapy can reduce pain and improve range of motion in the hands. It has also been shown to improve healing time and reduce the need for surgery.
Shockwave Treatments work: Real-world example:
A 45 year old male reported to my office with an inability to straighten his pointer finger. After multiple rounds of physical therapy, steroid injections, he was considering using surgical release to fix his trigger finger. As a last resort, he came into our office and within 7 visits, his finger was able to straighten out fully, along with being able to extend by more than 45 degrees than before.
How Shockwave Therapy is administered to the hands
Shockwave therapy is administered by a qualified medical professional using a handheld device. Usually, the transponder head used is a softer material like ceramic or polymer to reduce impact on bones. The device emits pulses of sound waves that are directed at the affected area of the hand. The sound waves stimulate the body’s natural healing processes to reduce pain and promote the regeneration of damaged tissue.
The treatment protocol may vary depending on the condition being treated, but typically consists of four to six treatments over a period of four to six weeks. The intensity of the treatment can be adjusted to suit the individual needs of the patient.
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for the hands
Shockwave therapy has been shown to be effective for reducing pain in the hands and improving range of motion by reducing adhesion. It can also accelerate healing and improve circulation in the affected area. Scientific evidence supports the use of shockwave therapy for the treatment of hand pain, including studies that have demonstrated the efficacy of shockwave therapy for reducing pain and improving range of motion.
Risks and side effects of Shockwave Treatments
As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects associated with shockwave therapy. Possible side effects include temporary soreness, swelling, and bruising in the treated area. Other risks include nerve damage.
The risks can be minimized by using a qualified medical professional and using the correct treatment protocol for the condition being treated.
Choosing a Shockwave Therapy provider
When choosing a shockwave therapy provider, it is important to ensure they are qualified and experienced in the use of shockwave therapy. Ensure that your provider gives you an accurate and complete diagnosis. It is also important to ensure that the shockwave therapy equipment they use is of the highest quality. Other factors to consider include their reputation, the cost of the treatment, and the availability of other services such as follow-up care.
Shockwave Treatments can help with your hand pain and injuries
Shockwave therapy is a safe and effective treatment for many conditions affecting the hands. It can reduce pain, improve range of motion, accelerate healing, and increase circulation. The risks of the therapy can be minimized by using a qualified medical professional and choosing the correct treatment protocol for the condition being treated.
In conclusion, shockwave therapy can be an effective treatment for many conditions affecting the hands. For those suffering from chronic pain, it is important to understand the potential benefits and risks of the therapy and to choose a qualified medical professional to ensure the best possible outcomes.