Shockwave Treatments for lower back pain
Shockwave therapy is a form of treatment that uses pressure waves to target areas of pain or injury. It has been used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal injuries, including those in the lower back. This article series will explain how shockwave treatments can be used to address pain and injury in the lower back. Understanding the benefits and risks associated with this therapy can help people make informed decisions about their treatment options.
Anatomy of the lower back
The lower back is comprised of a complex network of muscles, ligaments, bones, and joints that make up the 5 vertebral segments, the sacrum, and the coccyx. Between each segment, is an intervertebral disc. Common causes of pain and injury in the lower back include poor posture, repetitive motions, extended hours of sitting, and trauma. Shockwave therapy can be used to treat pain and injuries in the lower back by stimulating blood flow, reducing inflammation, killing senescence, and removing adhesion in the affected area.
Conditions treated by Shockwave Therapy
Lower back pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, including herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, spinal stenosis, sacroiliac joint (SI) dysfunction, and inflexibility. Shockwave therapy can be used to treat these conditions by stimulating the body’s natural healing process, reducing inflammation, killing senescence, and removing adhesion. There is scientific evidence to support the use of shockwave therapy for treating lower back pain.
Shockwave Treatments work: Real-world example
A 28-year old female came into my office complaining of SI joint pain. She had received hundreds of chiropractic manipulations that provided only temporary relief. An examination revealed that she was full of adhesion in her lumbar spine erectors and supraspinous ligament, especially around her L5-S1 vertebral complex. This was compressing her interverteral disc and radiating pain into her SI joint. After six sessions, she improved by 65% and was able to return to salsa dancing!
How Shockwave Therapy is applied to the lower back
Shockwave therapy is typically administered in a series of treatments. The number of treatments required will depend on the type of condition being treated and the severity of the pain. During the treatment, a shockwave machine will be used to direct targeted sound waves at the affected area. The sound waves create a pressure wave that penetrates the skin and stimulates the body’s natural healing response while breaking down adhesion. Treatment is most effectively administered when the target tissue is under tension.
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for the lower back
Shockwave therapy can provide a number of benefits for people with lower back pain. These include pain reduction, improved range of motion, accelerated healing, and increased circulation.
Risks and side effects of Shockwave Treatments
Although shockwave therapy is generally safe, there are potential risks and side effects associated with the treatment. These include skin irritation, bruising, swelling, and nerve damage. To minimize these risks, it is important to consult with a qualified health care provider before undergoing shockwave therapy. The fewer pulses your doctor uses, the better! Shockwave therapy should be avoided if you have a history of cancer in the treatment area or are pregnant.
Choosing a Shockwave Therapy provider
When choosing a shockwave therapy provider, it is important to consider the qualifications and experience of the provider. Ensure that your provider gives you an accurate and complete diagnosis. Additionally, the type of shockwave therapy equipment used should be taken into consideration. Other factors to consider include the cost of the treatment, the provider’s reputation, and customer reviews. Because this technology is emerging, please chose someone that specializes in shockwave and has a track-record of great success.
Shockwave treatments can help with low back pain and recovery from injuries
In conclusion, shockwave therapy can be an effective treatment for lower back pain. It can provide a number of benefits, including pain reduction, improved range of motion, accelerated healing, and increased circulation. However, it is important to understand the risks and side effects associated with the therapy before undergoing treatment. When choosing a shockwave therapy provider, it is important to consider their qualifications and experience, as well as the type of equipment they use. Ultimately, understanding the use of shockwave therapy for low back pain can help people make informed decisions about their treatment options.