Focused Shockwave Therapy/ Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)

How Focused Shockwave / ESWT® Works?

The shock wave unit that we use at i’Therapy PLC is manufactured in Switzerland by Storz Medical. This premier unit is used extensively in Europe within the orthopedic world. This technology is the same technology used in generating shock waves to break up kidney stones and is approved by the FDA. The mechanism by how it works is that the unit uses the natural repair mechanisms of the human body. The stimulus produced by the shock wave is transformed into chemical-cellular-biological activity, a process known as “mechanotransduction”. This helps to repair and restore normal function to the cells.

What disorders can be treated?

Generally, acute or chronic musculoskeletal pain and/or pain that significantly impairs mobility or quality of life. Conditions include:

  • Achilles tendinitis/tendonopathy

  • Plantar Fasciitis

  • Bunions

  • Heel spurs/ Haglunds deformities

  • Delayed union/malunion fractures/Avascular necrosis

  • Calcific tendinitis

  • Medial/lateral epicondylitis (golfer/tennis elbow)

  • Meniscal tears

  • Labral tears

  • Joint osteoarthritis

  • Rotator cuff pathology

  • Ligamentous strains

  • Trochanteric Bursitis

  • Trigger finger

  • Tendon insertional pain

Benefits of Shockwave?

Stimulates the healing process by transmitting energy thru the tissue to Increase metabolization at the cellular level which stimulates mitochondria and the release of ATP (cellular energy)

  1. Rapidly increases blood flow to the injured area by enhanced expression of growth factors and nitric oxide.

  2. Creates new blood supply to the injured area on the body (neovascularization)

  3. Produces growth of existing blood supply (angiogenesis)

  4. Reduces pain in the body (reduces Substance P which causes pain)

  5. Regenerates muscle tissue and nerve tissue (by enhanced expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen, recruitment/activation of stem cells)

  6. Drastically reduces inflammation (anti-inflammatory)

  7. Improves wound healing

  8. Increases osteoblastic activity (bone healing)

Is it safe?

Yes. This FDA cleared technology was developed in Europe and is currently used around the globe. A wealth of medical experience, state-of-the-art engineering, and optimal quality have been built into each ESWT® device; and extensive clinical studies and tests have confirmed its safety and efficacy.

If performed by a qualified caregiver, Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT®) has minor risks and side effects.

Why consider non-invasive ESWT?

ESWT has a proven success rate that is equal to or greater than that of traditional treatment methods (including surgery) and without the risks, complications and lengthy recovery time. ESWT is performed at our office (not a mobile unit), does not require anesthesia, requires a minimal amount of time, patients can immediately bear weight and/or return to normal activity within a few days of the procedure.