Shockwave therapy is an effective help for chronic pain
"Shock wave therapy is now a common part of modern physiatry. We use it mainly for tendon, muscle and joint pain. It is very effective, for example, for heel spurs, tennis elbow, shoulder pain, but also for chronic back pain," says Marek Tkáč, M.D., MBA, the primary of the rehabilitation department at AGEL Bratislava Hospital.
The shock wave works on the principle of high-energy acoustic impulses that penetrate the affected tissues. At the site of application, blood circulation is improved, healing is stimulated and, most importantly, pain is significantly reduced. It is one of the modern and effective rehabilitation methods used in the treatment of musculoskeletal pain, chronic tendon or muscle inflammation and other functional disorders. However, despite its widespread use, there are certain health limitations for which this treatment is not recommended.
Shockwave therapy is not suitable for pregnant women, patients with blood clotting disorders, cancer, infections or inflammation of the skin at the site of application. Its application is not suitable if the affected part of the musculoskeletal system has been repeatedly or recently treated locally with corticosteroid spray. In this case, a minimum of six weeks' interval is required after corticosteroid administration. It is also inappropriate for persons with implanted metals at the site of application, or for persons with electronic devices such as a pacemaker. Application is only possible in adulthood; children and adolescents are not suitable for this therapy. Relative contraindications include certain vascular diseases, acute inflammation, the active phase of rheumatoid arthritis and bone fragility due to osteoporosis. It is particularly suitable for physically active patients without serious diseases and athletes.
"Shockwave is an excellent choice for patients who want to avoid surgery or long-term medication. Results can be seen after just a few sessions," adds Primary Tkáč.
