Shockwave therapy, although not a new form of technology, is becoming more widely recognized and utilized for musculoskeletal conditions. Ever since the FDA approved Shockwave therapy devices for Plantar Fasciitis, there are now dozens of other uses to help patients with having access to an affordable, non-invasive option to treat pain and injury!
At Hershey Family Chiropractic, we are incredibly lucky to have access to this technology for our patients suffering with Low Back Pain, Disc Injury, Rotator Cuff Injuries, Post Surgical Pain, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and even MIGRAINES!
So How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?
Shockwave uses acoustic sound waves to mechanically create a biological response in the body for the purposes of breaking down scar tissue and simulating soft tissue and nerve remodeling. When applied, shockwaves “bounce” or “reflect” off of damaged tissue, creating a shearing force that breaks up scar tissue and adhesions. When this occurs, the body’s natural response of sending macrophage cells helps to clean up the debris, making way for tissue remodeling and healing.
(As stated, this technology is not new. In fact, it is used at much higher dosages to assist with breaking up kidney stones non-invasively!)
Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s get a bit more specific by answering a few frequently asked questions:
Your first experience with Shockwave is called a “discovery” or “diagnostic”. Your doctor will use muscle and orthopedic testing to determine where to begin, and then utilize the Shockwave in a specific manner to narrow down the origin of injury or pain. Once that is determined, ongoing treatments will be focused in that area.
Most conditions require 8-10 treatments, and function very much like Stem Cell treatments. You will feel your absolute best around 6 weeks after you complete your last treatment, because you will continue to improve!
(Although rare, our doctors will be able to tell early on if you are not responding properly or are not a candidate for this treatment.)
More chronic conditions like osteoarthritis, bone on bone knees, and so on – can improve drastically and feel great for 12 months or more at a time. Our patients who follow post care and lifestyle recommendations will notice improvement for much longer periods of time!
Regardless, there are options for maintenance care for more severe chronic conditions as recommended by your doctor.
Can I Use My HSA/FSA to Pay for This Treatment?
To schedule a new patient appointment at HFC, which INCLUDES a Shockwave Discovery, please contact our office today at 717.531.3411 or request online! You can even shoot us over an email at HFCMain@hersheyfamilychiropractic.com with additional questions prior to scheduling your new patient appointment.
We look forward to serving you by providing another non-invasive, healthy way to leverage your own NATURAL healing power for injuries and pain!