Shockwave

For targeted, non-invasive pain relief

This advanced technology generates complex, precise, non-invasive high intensity mechanical pulses at targeted depths that are absorbed into the tissues and through complex molecular and cellular level signaling reduces pain, decreases inflammation, increases blood flow, and stimulates and accelerates the healing process. After treatment, damaged tissues regenerate and heal over time.

This non-invasive outpatient procedure represents a breakthrough in regenerative treatment options for a broad range of musculoskeletal conditions. Shockwave treatment is one of the best options for tendon, ligament, joint, and bursal diseases that cause pain, inflammation, and dysfunction.

The advent of new technologies over the past several years has opened a vast range of possibilities for therapeutic, non-invasive and non-pharmacological methods to help patients manage pain and heal damaged tissues. Regen Rx is pleased to offer this new technology to our patients to treat a variety of conditions, including joint and muscle disorders, athletic injuries and chronic pain conditions.

The Underlying Science of Shockwave Therapy

The Shockwaves are absorbed into the treated tissues and through complex molecular and cellular signaling prompts repair and regeneration. Shockwave therapy precisely mechanically stimulates tissues at a target depth which decreases pain and inflammation, stimulates healing, and increases blood flow and tissue fluid exchange. This prompts the body to start resorbing the damaged tissue and toxic fluids, and stimulates new blood vessels to replace the damaged ones. The tiny new blood vessels increase the blood supply to the injured area increasing the flow of oxygen and nutrients necessary for proper healing and to help sustain the result.

Increased nutrient and oxygen dense blood flow is necessary for neovascularization to occur to start and maintain the regenerative process of damaged or diseased tissue. The application of Shockwaves causes release of nitric oxide which dilates blood vessels rapidly and increases the expression of growth factors such as eNOS, VEGF, PCNA and BMP. These signaling molecules stimulate the growth and remodeling of new arterioles and capillaries. The new blood vessels enhance the tissue’s blood supply and oxygenation, resulting in more complete healing of muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, collagen and bone.

Treatment protocols are tailored to your specific condition. For optimal results, 3-6 treatments may be initially needed. For chronic conditions additional sessions may be needed several times a year or as needed to provide you with the level of function and pain management that you desire.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it hurt?

Treatments are generally well tolerated with patients experiencing mild discomfort and a deep ache during treatment. However, if there is any objectionable sensation, our providers can adjust the intensity to within the comfort level of the patient.

Do you numb the area being treated?

No. The treatment relies heavily on biofeedback from the patient to the provider. We need to know the very specific areas (down to the size of dime or smaller) in the injured area to pulse that area more intensely. The pain level should be tolerable and we only can monitor this parameter if the patient is not anesthetized. As the treatment continues the area becomes less painful as the Shockwaves decrease pain through reduction of the cellular concentrations of pain and inflammation generating chemicals called Substance P and Prostaglandin E2.

How long does each treatment take?

The typical treatment is 7 to 10 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated.

How often should a patient be treated?

We recommend treatments be spaced 5-7 days initally. Further into your treatment they may be spaced 10-21 days depending on your condition and response to treatment.

How many treatments does it take?

This depends on the nature of the condition being treated. For most chronic conditions, 3-6 treatments may be sufficient.

How long before results are felt?

Some patients feel relief after just 1 session. If this occurs we still recommend completing a full treatment as advised. The initial treatments tend to treat the pain very rapidly and initiate the healing response which takes time. The maximum result is usually seen within several months after the entire treatment is complete as the body continues to heal the area.

Can Shockwave be used in conjunction with other forms of treatment?

Yes. we use it effectively with Class IV medical laser, High Energy Inductive Therapy (HEIT), and manipulation.

What can I expect after a treatment?

Most patients report pain relief immediately following the treatment. Within two to four hours after your session, you may have some soreness in the area. The soreness should not prevent you from continuing day to day activities.

Are there any restrictions after a treatment?

Since some patients feel relief after 1 session or before completion of a full treatment, we recommend that you do not exert the injured area. Ice packs or excessive heat are not recommended for 48 hours after each treatment. It is also advised you do not take Motrin after treatment for discomfort. Instead, take Tylenol as directed. Ice and ibuprofen can blunt the stimulation that Shockwave produces and be counterproductive.

shockwave

For targeted, non-invasive pain relief

Pinpoint therapy source

Pinpoint therapy source

Pinpoint therapy source

Linear therapy source

Pinpoint therapy source

Pinpoint therapy source

controlling pain | restoring motion

The Underlying Science of Shockwave Therapy

Unique Treatments at Spine & Extremities Center

Frequently Asked Questions