Musculoskeletal pain and injuries are incredibly common and can really put a damper on your daily life. Luckily, there are non-invasive treatments that can help.
Two such options are shockwave therapy (ESWT) and ultrasound therapy. This article will explore the science behind each of these therapies and their applications for different conditions.
When you’re done reading, you should have a better understanding of how a shockwave ultrasound machine works and which type of therapy might be right for you.
Understanding Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)
ESWT stands for Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy. But what exactly is shockwave therapy?
What is Shockwave Therapy?
ESWT is a treatment that uses acoustic waves to help your body heal and to reduce pain. It works by stimulating blood flow, boosting collagen production, and helping your cells regenerate.
Types of Shockwave Therapy
There are two main types of shockwave therapy:
- Focused Shockwave Therapy (FSWT). In FSWT, the energy is delivered to a specific, targeted area.
- Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT). RSWT delivers energy over a broader area.
Applications of ESWT
ESWT is often used to treat chronic pain and injuries that haven’t responded to other treatments. Some conditions that ESWT can help with include:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Tennis elbow
- Slow-healing fractures
- Shoulder tendinopathies
Understanding Ultrasound Therapy
What is Ultrasound Therapy?
Ultrasound therapy is a treatment that uses high-frequency sound waves to create heat.
As the sound waves penetrate your muscles and tissues, they improve blood flow and boost flexibility.
Applications of Ultrasound Therapy
Ultrasound therapy is often used to treat pain, inflammation, and soft tissue injuries that are either chronic or that happen after an acute event.
For example, ultrasound machines can be used to treat:
- strains
- sprains
- tendon strains
- fractures
In addition, they may help ease chronic pain, muscle spasms, and joint contractures.
Shockwave vs. Ultrasound: A Detailed Comparison
Both shockwave therapy and ultrasound therapy can help your body heal, but they work in different ways and are better suited to different types of injuries.
Mechanisms of Action
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) uses acoustic waves to stimulate tissue regeneration. In contrast, ultrasound therapy uses high-frequency sound waves to create heat.
Shockwave treatments can reach deeper tissues than ultrasound treatments can.
Applications
ESWT is often a better choice for chronic, stubborn problems, such as plantar fasciitis and tennis elbow. Ultrasound is often used for acute injuries that are closer to the surface of the body, such as muscle strains and sprains.
Treatment Duration and Frequency
ESWT treatments are usually shorter and happen less often than ultrasound treatments. You may need to go in for ultrasound treatments more frequently than you would for shockwave therapy, but there are options for best shockwave therapy machines for home use.
Choosing the Right Treatment: What to Consider
It’s essential to talk to a healthcare professional to figure out the best treatment for you. The choice between shockwave therapy and regular ultrasound depends on your specific condition, how severe it is, and your individual needs.
Both therapies are non-invasive, meaning they don’t require surgery or injections. However, a doctor can help you weigh the pros and cons of each to make the right decision for your health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the two negative consequences of shock therapy?
When considering “shock therapy,” it’s important to distinguish between electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and shockwave therapy. If you’re referring to ECT, potential negative consequences can include memory loss and confusion. If you’re asking about shockwave therapy, some people may experience pain during the treatment or temporary skin redness.
What is the alternative to shockwave?
Alternatives to shockwave therapy depend on the condition being treated. They may include physical therapy, ultrasound therapy, massage, dry needling, medication (like pain relievers or anti-inflammatories), or, in some cases, surgery.
When should you not use shockwave?
Shockwave therapy is generally not recommended for people who are pregnant, have a pacemaker, have a blood clotting disorder, are taking anticoagulant medication, have a tumor in the treatment area, or have an active infection.
Is shockwave the same as a TENS unit?
No, shockwave therapy and TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) units are not the same. Shockwave therapy uses acoustic waves to stimulate healing. TENS units use electrical impulses to stimulate nerves for pain relief.
Does insurance cover shockwave therapy?
Insurance coverage for shockwave therapy can vary greatly depending on your insurance plan and the specific condition being treated, similar to other treatments where understanding Emsella contraindications and eligibility is crucial. It’s always best to check with your insurance provider to determine if shockwave therapy is a covered benefit and what your out-of-pocket costs might be.
Summary
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) and traditional ultrasound offer two different ways to treat muscle and bone problems.
The best treatment plan for you will depend on your unique circumstances, so it’s important to get an assessment from a healthcare professional. They can help you decide which treatment is most likely to give you the best results.
Don’t hesitate to seek professional advice to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific condition.