Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)
At FoRM Health, one of the most effective, non-invasive treatments we offer in our Portland, Oregon, clinic is shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT). This advanced therapy promotes healing, reduces pain, and helps break down scar tissue and fibrosis, allowing patients to recover faster and regain their active lifestyles.
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses shockwaves to help heal tissue and reduce pain. It’s a type of regenerative medicine that can provide significant relief for injuries and pain affecting the tendons, ligaments, muscles, joints, and areas affected by fibrosis or scarring.
Our Portland clinic uses a method of ESWT therapy called focused shockwave therapy. This therapy uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. Focused shockwave therapy not only addresses musculoskeletal injuries but is also highly effective in treating scar tissue and fibrosis, which can restrict movement and cause chronic pain.
How Does ESWT Work?
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy uses focused acoustic waves to penetrate deep into tissues, where they stimulate cellular activity, promote tissue repair, and break down adhesions. ESWT works by:
- Stimulating blood flow to the damaged area, enhancing healing.
- Breaking down scar tissue and fibrosis, improving tissue elasticity and function.
- Promoting collagen production, which strengthens and repairs tissues.
- Reducing inflammation and calcifications in tendons and ligaments.
- Relieving pain by desensitizing nerve endings and promoting tissue regeneration.
Shockwave Therapy for Scar Tissue and Fibrosis
One of the key benefits of focused shockwave therapy is its ability to reduce and break down scar tissue and fibrosis. After injuries or surgeries, excessive scar tissue formation can lead to stiffness, restricted movement, and chronic pain. Fibrosis, the thickening or hardening of tissue due to excess collagen formation, can further exacerbate these symptoms. ESWT helps by:
- Breaking up adhesions and fibrotic tissue that restrict movement.
- Stimulating tissue regeneration, encouraging healthier, more elastic tissue to replace scar tissue.
- Restoring flexibility and mobility in areas affected by scarring, such as tendons, ligaments, and muscles.
This makes ESWT an ideal treatment for individuals suffering from post-injury or post-surgical scar tissue, as well as those with chronic conditions where fibrosis has developed.
Conditions Treated with Shockwave Therapy
ESWT is an ideal treatment option for a variety of musculoskeletal and pain conditions, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis: Chronic heel pain due to inflammation of the plantar fascia.
- Tendinitis: Such as Achilles tendinitis, patellar tendinitis, and tennis elbow.
- Calcific Tendinitis: Calcium deposits in tendons causing pain and limited movement. This is most common in the shoulder rotator cuff.
- Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (Shin Splints): Pain and inflammation along the shinbone, common in runners.
- Hip Bursitis: Inflammation of the hip bursa, causing pain and restricted movement.
- Chronic Muscle Pain: Such as myofascial pain syndrome, where pressure on sensitive points in muscles leads to pain.
- Scar Tissue and Fibrosis: Post-surgical or post-injury scarring, as well as fibrosis affecting soft tissue.
Key Benefits of ESWT
- Non-Invasive: No surgery or injections are required, making it a safe and gentle option for pain relief.
- Quick Recovery: Most patients experience significant improvement after 4-6 sessions, with minimal downtime.
- Natural Healing: ESWT boosts the body’s natural healing mechanisms, making it an excellent alternative to medications or invasive procedures.
- Scar Tissue Reduction: ESWT effectively reduces the formation of excessive scar tissue and breaks down existing fibrosis, improving tissue health.
- Long-Term Relief: The benefits of shockwave therapy extend beyond short-term pain relief, addressing the root cause of conditions for lasting improvement.
What to Expect During Treatment
Shockwave therapy sessions at FoRM Health typically last around 10-15 minutes. Here’s what you can expect:
- Consultation: During your initial visit, our Portland ESWT doctors will evaluate your condition and determine if ESWT is the right treatment for you.
- Treatment: Focused shockwaves are applied to the affected area using a handheld device. Most patients experience some discomfort that immediately resolves once the procedure is complete.
- Follow-Up: Depending on the severity of your condition, a series of sessions (usually 4-6) is typically recommended. Some patients notice improvement after just one session, with further relief in the following weeks.
Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You?
Shockwave therapy is an excellent treatment option for individuals who have not found relief from conventional treatments like physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or corticosteroid injections. It is ideal for treating chronic pain and injuries that have not responded to other therapies. ESWT is particularly effective for athletes or active individuals looking to minimize downtime.
Why Choose FoRM Health for Shockwave Therapy?
At FoRM Health, our Portland, Oregon, orthopedics and sports medicine team specializes in non-invasive, cutting-edge treatments like EWST to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. We combine the latest technology with personalized care, tailoring each treatment to your specific needs and condition. Our goal is to help you recover quickly and return to the activities you love—pain-free.
Ready to Get Started?
Schedule a New Patient Visit with Dr. Joanne Siegel DPT or Dr. Jessica Binshaieg, ND
If you’re suffering from chronic pain or a musculoskeletal injury, contact FoRM Health today to schedule a consultation and learn how extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) can help you. Our team is here to guide you on the path to recovery.
