Campbell Clinic has introduced extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), a cutting-edge, non-invasive treatment designed to help patients recover from a variety of musculoskeletal injuries. By harnessing the power of sound waves, this therapy promotes the body’s natural healing mechanisms. It is effective for conditions such as chronic and acute tendinopathy, bone stress injuries, plantar fasciitis, muscle strains, and ligament sprains.
How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?
Shockwave therapy uses high-energy sound waves that are 1000 times stronger than ultrasound waves to stimulate tissue healing. The two primary types of shockwave therapy currently used are radial shockwave (pressure wave therapy) and focused shockwave therapy. While radial shockwave therapy is more widely available, Campbell Clinic is unique in the mid-South for offering focused shockwave therapy, which has specific advantages for certain conditions.
Focused shockwave therapy is particularly effective for treating deeper, more complex injuries such as calcific tendinopathy, bone injuries, and conditions like insertional hamstring tendinopathy. The treatment involves directing concentrated shockwaves into the affected area, where they help break down damaged tissue, improve blood circulation, and stimulate the body’s natural healing response.
Treatment Process and Benefits
The treatment sessions are typically brief, lasting between 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the specific injury. Most patients require three to six sessions, one to two weeks apart. One of the key benefits of shockwave therapy is its cumulative effect: patients generally see incremental improvements with each session, helping them regain mobility and reduce pain over time.
Because it is non-invasive and requires no downtime, patients can resume their normal activities immediately following treatment. In fact, combining shockwave therapy with physical therapy can accelerate recovery, enhancing both pain relief and functional outcomes. Studies have shown that the combination of these treatments leads to faster recovery times for a range of musculoskeletal conditions.
Conditions Treated by Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is FDA-approved for treating conditions like plantar fasciitis and tennis elbow. It has shown great promise in treating a wide variety of injuries, including:
- Tendon injuries (tendinopathy)
- Bone stress injuries
- Plantar fasciitis
- Muscle strains
- Ligament sprains
While shockwave therapy is a highly effective option for many patients, it is typically recommended to try more traditional treatments—such as anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy—first. If these treatments don’t provide sufficient relief after 4 to 6 weeks, shockwave therapy is a viable next step.
Safety and Side Effects
Shockwave therapy is generally well-tolerated by most patients, and the risk of serious side effects is low. The most common side effect is mild discomfort during the procedure, though this is usually temporary, and many patients report feeling better immediately after treatment. Other potential side effects may include temporary redness or bruising at the treatment site.
Because the therapy uses sound waves rather than electricity, it is safe for patients with pacemakers or other implantable devices.
Additionally, it can be used on prior surgical sites and is considered safe for younger patients and pregnant women, depending on the area being treated.
A Step Toward Faster Recovery
While shockwave therapy is not yet covered by insurance, its benefits often outweigh the cost for patients who have not found relief through traditional treatments. With its non-invasive nature, minimal side effects, and ability to promote faster healing, shockwave therapy is becoming an increasingly popular option for those suffering from musculoskeletal pain.
For more information about how shockwave therapy may help your recovery, or to schedule a consultation, you can contact Campbell Clinic at 901.759.3111 or visit their website at CampbellBiologics.com.
By Dr. Kristina Quirolgico
