SoftWave Therapy: Benefits and Risks

Electrohydraulic shockwave therapy, also known as ESWT, has made a splash in the medical world, specifically in orthopedics. But with a name like that, it’s understandable to feel a bit intimidated or even confused about what it actually involves. So, what’s the buzz about electrohydraulic shockwave therapy and how does it differ from other treatment options? Let’s uncover the fascinating world of this innovative approach to healing.

Table Of Contents:

• Understanding Electrohydraulic Shockwave Therapy
  • How Electrohydraulic Shockwave Therapy Works
  • Applications of Electrohydraulic Shockwave Therapy
  • Electrohydraulic vs. Other Types of Shockwave Therapy
  • Benefits of Electrohydraulic Shockwave Therapy
  • What to Expect During and After Treatment
  • Contraindications
• FAQs about electrohydraulic shockwave therapy
  • Is Electrohydraulic Shockwave Therapy Painful?
  • Is Electrohydraulic Shockwave Therapy FDA Approved?
  • How Much Does Electrohydraulic Shockwave Therapy Cost?
• Conclusion

Understanding Electrohydraulic Shockwave Therapy

Electrohydraulic shockwave therapy is a non-invasive procedure that uses high-energy shock waves to stimulate healing in musculoskeletal conditions. Before you imagine yourself being blasted with the kind of sound waves that rock a concert stadium, let me clarify: these sound waves are focused, controlled, and targeted directly at the injured tissues.

This process, called mechanotransduction, kickstarts a cascade of biological responses within your body. It encourages natural regeneration and repair through radial pressure waves.

How Electrohydraulic Shockwave Therapy Works

Electrohydraulic shockwave therapy delivers these high-energy acoustic waves to injured tissues through a process that involves three main phases:

1. Physical: A shockwave, a large positive pressure wave followed instantly by a negative pressure wave, is generated. It travels faster than sound, making it different than ultrasound waves that are periodic with a narrow bandwidth.
2. Chemical: The physical impact of the pressure pulse triggers chemical reactions in the body. These reactions lead to the release of biomolecules, essential for cell signaling, which sets off the body’s natural healing processes. Think of it like sending a wake-up call to the cells in the treatment area.
3. Biological: These chemical signals activate a healing cascade, increasing blood flow (angiogenesis), decreasing inflammation, and stimulating tissue regeneration. All of these are crucial for repairing those aching tendons and tissues.

Applications of Electrohydraulic Shockwave Therapy

While still considered relatively new, research, such as this 2012 study on Extracorporeal shockwave therapy in musculoskeletal disorders, suggests electrohydraulic shockwave therapy is showing promise for a growing list of conditions. These include:

• Plantar fasciitis: A common and often stubborn foot pain, especially for runners, caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia. This condition causes stabbing pain in the heel that is often worse in the morning. Plantar fasciitis is often treated with low-energy shockwave therapy.
• Tennis elbow: Also known as lateral epicondylitis, a painful condition affecting the tendons on the outside of the elbow. Electrohydraulic shockwave therapy for tennis elbow is an alternative treatment option.
• Achilles tendinopathy: Pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon, frequently seen in athletes.
• Calcific tendinitis: A painful build-up of calcium deposits in the tendons, commonly affecting the shoulder.
• Non-union fractures: Where a broken bone fails to heal properly.

Electrohydraulic vs. Other Types of Shockwave Therapy

While all shockwave therapies aim to kickstart the body’s healing response through the use of energy shockwaves, they’re not all created equal. You’ll often come across terms like radial shockwave therapy or extracorporeal shockwave therapy. So, where does electrohydraulic shockwave therapy fit into the picture?

While more research is needed, some clinical trials suggest electrohydraulic shockwave therapy might be more effective for certain deep-tissue conditions due to its focused, higher-energy waves. However, your doctor will help you determine the best treatment approach based on your specific condition and needs. They may even recommend a combination of high-energy shockwave therapy and low-energy shockwave therapy.

Benefits of Electrohydraulic Shockwave Therapy

The allure of electrohydraulic shockwave therapy, like any treatment option, lies in its potential benefits, especially when compared to traditional methods. Electrohydraulic shockwave therapy is showing promise in the treatment of chronic plantar fasciitis. Some of these advantages include:

• Non-invasive: Unlike surgery, electrohydraulic shockwave therapy doesn’t require any incisions, anesthesia, or prolonged recovery periods.
• Drug-free: This therapy offers a compelling alternative to pain medications or steroid injections, potentially sparing you from unwanted side effects.
• Fast treatment sessions: Treatments are typically short, averaging around 10–15 minutes, making them easier to fit into busy schedules.
• Minimal side effects: While some people might experience mild discomfort during or after the procedure, serious side effects are uncommon.

What to Expect During and After Treatment

Knowing what’s coming can ease anxiety, and electrohydraulic shockwave therapy is no different. Here’s a glimpse into what you can anticipate during and after your treatment sessions:

During Treatment

1. Preparation: You’ll be positioned comfortably, and the treatment area might be marked to ensure accuracy. Your provider might apply a conductive gel for better transmission of shockwaves.
2. Shockwave delivery: Your clinician will use a handheld device placed against your skin, emitting the focused shockwaves.
3. Sensations: You may feel a tapping or pulsing sensation during the treatment, and some areas may be more sensitive than others.
4. Treatment time: Sessions are typically brief, lasting about 5-15 minutes depending on the condition and treatment area.

After Treatment

1. Immediate post-treatment: You may notice mild discomfort, redness, or tingling at the treatment site. These usually subside within a few hours or days.
2. Recovery: There’s generally no downtime, meaning you can typically return to your usual activities after the treatment.
3. Multiple sessions: The number of treatments required varies but typically ranges from 3 to 6 sessions, spaced about a week apart, for optimal results. Your doctor will be able to give you a recommendation specific to you.

Contraindications

Electrohydraulic shockwave therapy may not be a suitable option for everyone. For instance, individuals with certain health conditions, such as nerve disorders, blood clotting issues, or who are pregnant, should not undergo this treatment. It’s essential to consult your physician to ensure this therapy aligns with your overall health profile.

FAQs about electrohydraulic shockwave therapy

Is Electrohydraulic Shockwave Therapy Painful?

Electrohydraulic shockwave therapy can cause some discomfort during the procedure, but it’s generally tolerable. Think of it as a deep, pulsating sensation, rather than a sharp or stabbing pain. Most people compare the sensation to a rubber band snapping against their skin.

Anesthesia is not usually required. However, your physician may offer options to minimize discomfort if needed, such as topical numbing agents or adjusting treatment intensity based on your feedback.

Is Electrohydraulic Shockwave Therapy FDA Approved?

The FDA has granted clearance for some electrohydraulic shockwave therapy devices to treat specific conditions. However, some uses may still be considered off-label. It’s always wise to have an open conversation with your doctor about whether the FDA has cleared the specific device and for the condition you’re considering.

How Much Does Electrohydraulic Shockwave Therapy Cost?

Cost is a common concern, but unfortunately, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to pricing. Several factors can sway the overall expenses associated with electrohydraulic shockwave therapy:

• Location of the provider
• Number of treatment sessions needed
• Whether your insurance covers the procedure

Don’t hesitate to discuss costs openly with your healthcare provider to understand better the financial aspects involved, as they can often provide more specific estimates.

Conclusion

While electrohydraulic shockwave therapy is making strides in orthopedic treatment, it’s important to have realistic expectations and understand its limitations. Speak to your healthcare provider to see if it is the right fit for you. Like any medical procedure, thorough research, an open dialogue with your doctor, and realistic expectations are crucial.

When handled responsibly and ethically, electrohydraulic shockwave therapy holds immense promise, offering a non-invasive path to address persistent pain and reignite your body’s natural healing capabilities.