Shock Wave Therapy for Pain

What Is Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy?

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy is an alternative treatment used to treat many painful conditions. When it’s performed correctly by experienced pain management doctors, your body heals on its own with this remarkable treatment without the need for risky surgical procedures. The word extracorporeal simply means that the shockwaves come from outside your body.

You don’t need any implants or invasive procedures when your doctor uses a specialized device that sends controlled acoustic waves through your skin directly to the affected tissues. These waves encourage cells to repair damage, break down scar tissue and promote collagen production, necessary for healing. Dr. Leon Reyfman offers this and other regenerative therapies at five New York City locations of Stem Cell Therapy NYC.

What Conditions Are Treated with Shockwave Therapy for Pain?

Stubborn muscle, joint and tendon problems that don’t heal through other conservative treatments respond well to shockwave therapy for pain. Whether you’re dealing with a recent injury or a long-standing source of pain, the sound waves target the root cause of your pain and don’t just mask the symptoms. You may benefit from shockwave therapy for pain if you’re managing conditions, such as:

• Plantar fasciitis. Relieves heel and arch pain while reducing inflammation and restoring tissue health.
• Tendonitis. Reduces tendon inflammation and supports faster recovery.
• Bursitis. Eases joint swelling and tenderness around the affected area.
• Osteoarthritis. Improves joint mobility while easing stiffness and discomfort.
• Tennis elbow. Speeds tendon healing and reduces pain from repetitive strain.
• Degenerative joint disease. Works well in conjunction with other non-surgical treatments like stem cell therapy.

Shockwave therapy works deep within your tissues to support lasting recovery. When you undergo shockwave therapy at Stem Cell Therapy NYC, your treatment is customized to your condition and healing goals. Whether your pain comes from a sports injury, repetitive strain or a degenerative condition, shockwave therapy offers a non-surgical treatment to heal and strengthen your body from within.

How Is Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy Performed?

Your session begins with a detailed consultation during which your doctor reviews your medical history, discusses your symptoms and identifies the exact area of pain. Imaging tests ensure that shockwave therapy is suitable for your condition. The inpatient procedure follows steps that include:

1. Applying a small amount of gel to the targeted area,which improves the transmission of the shockwaves into your tissues and ensures the energy reaches the right depth.
2. Placing a handheld device against your skin,which gently delivers radial shockwaves directly to the affected area. You may feel tapping or pulsing sensations indicating the waves are stimulating healing in your tissues.
3. Adjusting the frequency of the shockwaves,based on your comfort level and the severity of your condition. The discomfort is so mild that you typically don’t need anesthetics.

You may experience mild soreness or swelling after the session, which usually disappears within a day or two. Your doctor also recommends steps to support healing that include:

• Avoiding heavy workouts for 48 hours
• Skipping ice packs and anti-inflammatory medications
• Using gentle stretches to maintain flexibility

What Are the Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Pain?

One of the main benefits of shockwave therapy for pain is that you don’t have to worry about anesthesia, injections or surgical incisions. It’s an excellent choice if you prefer to avoid medications or invasive procedures.

Up to 80 percent of people who visit Stem Cell Therapy NYC experience noticeable improvements in pain and function after completing their sessions. You may start feeling the benefits after just a few treatments, which depends on the condition being treated and how your body responds. Other benefits include:

• Quick recovery. Noticeable relief after a few sessions.
• Low side effects. Mild soreness that fades quickly.
• Cost-effective. No hospital stays or medications required.
• Broad application. Effective for both chronic and recent injuries.

Am I A Good Candidate for Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy?

You may be an ideal candidate for shockwave therapy if you’re dealing with a musculoskeletal or soft tissue condition that hasn’t improved with rest, medication or physical therapy. While the treatment is safe for most people, it may not be suitable for everyone. You may need to avoid this particular form of regenerative therapy if you have conditions that include:

• Being pregnant
• Suffering from a bleeding disorder or taking blood-thinning medication
• Having a pacemaker, metal implant or tumor in the treatment area
• Experiencing an open wound, infection or nerve problem near the targeted region

At Stem Cell Therapy NYC, skilled doctors use shock wave therapy to target the root of your discomfort and help you regain mobility.  Contact one of five convenient locations today to set up a consultation.