Shockwave & Cold Laser
What is Shockwave Therapy? How does it work?
Shockwave Therapy creates Radial Pressure Waves and was first introduced as a medical treatment 20 years ago to eliminate kidney stones. It was discovered that one side effect from treatment was accelerated tissue healing in the area. The acoustic energy created by Shockwave Therapy is a non-invasive treatment method for long-term tendon injuries with very few side effects.
The pressure waves penetrate the tissue and reduce pain by inhibiting the transmission of pain signals (Gate Control Theory). It also increases cell metabolism and promotes the release of pain and inflammatory inhibiting substances. Revascularization of the area occurs with new blood flow promoting tissue healing and regeneration.
What conditions can be treated?
Shockwave works well for any insertional tendinopathy where soft tissue attaches to the bone. It also works well on trigger points and muscle tension.
How long is the treatment and how often do I need to be seen?
After the initial assessment, each follow-up visit is 15 min. It is recommended you come in for 3-5 treatments separated by 5-7 days each.
Is it painful?
I can be uncomfortable at times as it is applied directly to the injured area. However, it is usually well tolerated. The injured area will normally feel better after a treatment and then may become sore 24-48 hours post treatment. The soreness should dissipate over the following 24-48 hours and before your next treatment.
What is Laser Therapy? How does it work?
Laser Therapy has been used successfully in our South Surrey clinic to treat a broad range of medical conditions, including musculoskeletal problems, arthritis, sports injuries and post-surgical wounds. Unlike many pharmacological treatments that mask pain or only address the symptoms of disease, Laser Therapy treats the underlying condition or pathology to promote healing. This means that the treatments are effective and the benefits of Laser Therapy are long lasting. This dynamic technology utilizes super-luminous and laser diodes to irradiate abnormal tissue with photons. These are particles of energy that are absorbed by a variety of micro-molecules within the cell, a process which initiates a number of positive physiological responses. In essence, light energy is converted into biochemical energy. The result: normal cell morphology and function are restored.
What conditions can be treated?
GENERAL: Carpal tunnel syndrome, epicondylitis, fibromyalgia, reflex sympathetic dystrophy, repetitive stress injury, rotator cuff tears, TMJ dysfunction.
INJURIES: Bulging and herniated discs, contusions, facet joint syndrome, fractures with associated soft-tissue injuries, ligament and tendon tears.
INFLAMMATORY: Bursitis, myositis, plantar fasciitis, rheumatoid arthritis, synovitis, tendonitis.
DEGENERATIVE: Calcifications (e.g. bone spurs), chondromalacia patella, discogenic and vertebrogenic radiculopathy, osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis.
How often do I need treatment?
Treatments are typically 30 minutes. The number of treatments will vary with regard to the individual presenting problem. Just as every medical condition varies so will the individual response to therapy.
