Shockwave Therapy & Achilles Tendinitis
Focused Shockwave Therapy Presents Favorable Results in Treating Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles tendinitis is a common condition where the large tendon at the back of the ankle (Achilles Tendon) becomes inflamed due to excessive stress or overuse. Becoming a more widely accepted treatment option for Achilles tendinitis, focused shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that has gained popularity for managing various musculoskeletal conditions, as it accelerates the healing process by stimulating tissue repair, reducing pain, and promoting proper tendon remodeling. Focused shockwave therapy addresses both the pain and the underlying tissue damage, making it an effective, non-invasive treatment for those suffering from Achilles tendonitis that otherwise may have not responded well to other conservative treatments for this chronic condition.
Focused shockwave therapy is a treatment option that does not require surgery, injections, stitches, or anesthesia, which may have longer recovery times and more risks. This therapeutic modality reduces complications and promotes a quicker recovery with the delivery of acoustic waves to the affected areas. Benefits of focused shockwave therapy in treating Achilles tendinitis may include:
- Pain Management - reducing both acute and chronic pain associated with Achilles tendinitis, focused shockwave therapy promotes circulation and stimulates the release of endorphins, also known as our body's natural painkillers.
- Tissue Regeneration and Healing - acoustic waves increases blood flow to the injured areas, which can enhance the delivery of oxygen and nutrients and encourage tendon repair, as well as heal damaged tissue and muscles around the ankle.
- Reduced Inflammation - with anti-inflammatory effects, shockwave therapy can assist in reducing swelling in the affected areas, quickly relieving pain and stiffness.
- Collagen Production and Tendon Repair - as a key protein in tendons and ligaments, collagen can be stimulated by focused shockwave therapy promoting production, which can assist in rebuilding the strength and function to the injured areas. Specific to Achilles tendinitis, the tendon fibers may have been overstretched or incurred microscopic tears due to repetitive stress, so the encouragement of healthy tissue regrowth as a result of focused shockwave therapy can accelerate repair and recovery of the tendon.
- Scar Tissue Break Down - with chronic Achilles tendinitis, scar tissue formation is not uncommon, which can cause additional discomfort. Focused shockwave therapy can assist in breaking down scar tissue and assist in restoring this tendon's strength and flexibility.
- Improved Range of Motion - treatments from focused shockwave therapy promote healing, which assists in restoring the range of motion for the ankle.
- Reduced (Few) Side Effects - the use of focused shockwave therapy treatments offers minimal side effects. Some common side effects include mild bruising, swelling, and redness, which typically resolve within 24 to 72 hours.
- Quick Treatment Sessions with Minimal Downtime - non-invasive sessions typically last around 15 minutes and most can resume their busy lifestyles same day.
- Long-Term Results - while results may vary based upon each patient's health, focused shockwave therapy can provide pain relief and functional improvement for months or even years.
For many patients, Achilles tendinitis can significantly strain daily mobility. By reducing pain and improving function with focused shockwave therapy treatments, patients improve their overall quality of life and get back to their normal activities, with reduced pain and more flexibility with their Achilles tendon.
Want to learn more about treating Achilles tendinitis with Focused Shockwave Therapy in an effort to reduce pain, improve healing, break down scar tissue, and restore function? Request an appointment with Dr. Carter today.
