Shockwave Therapy & Osteoarthritis
Focused Shockwave Therapy Presents Favorable Results in Treating Osteoarthritis (OA)
Osteoarthritis is a condition where the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones in the joints gradually wears away. While the cause is not fully understood, it is believed that age, genetics, injury, and overuse may be factors that contribute to the development of this condition. Typically developing slowly over time, patients experience joint pain, stiffness, reduced range of motion, and potentially a grinding or crackling sound when moving the joint. The is no cure for OA currently, but treatments focus on managing symptoms and improving quality of life through lifestyle changes, therapies, medications, and, in extreme cases, surgery may be an option.
Focused shockwave therapy is an emerging treatment option for those with osteoarthritis that does not require surgery or injections. This non-invasive therapeutic modality has been used for managing OA symptoms, as well as assisted in stimulating healing, reducing pain, promoting circulation, and improving joint mobility. Benefits of focused shockwave therapy in treating osteoarthritis may include:
- Pain Management - reducing pain associated with osteoarthritis, as it stimulates the nerve endings and assists in the release of endorphins, also known as our body's natural painkillers. Focused shockwave therapy may also provide relief by disrupting the pain signals sent to the brain, thus managing the sensation of pain in the joint.
- Reduced Inflammation - with anti-inflammatory effects, shockwave therapy can assist in reducing swelling in the affected areas, more quickly relieving joint pain and stiffness.
- Tissue Regeneration - with shockwaves stimulating fibroblasts and other cells involved in the healing process, regeneration of tissue and synovial fluids may occur. This may help slow the progression of damage to the joint and support the body's healing process.
- Increased Blood Flow - acoustic waves stimulates circulation to the targeted areas, which can enhance the delivery of oxygen and nutrients while encouraging healing and tissue repair. Improved circulation may also reduce inflammation and promote a healthy environment for joints.
- Improved Joint Mobility - treatments from focused shockwave therapy assist with reducing pain and inflammation, which promotes restoring joint motion due to relief from stiffness and pain.
- 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, osteoarthritis impacts daily joint mobility. By reducing pain and stimulating blood flow from focused shockwave therapy treatments, patients improve their overall quality of life and get back to their normal activities, with reduced pain and improved mobility. The results of this treatment will vary from patient to patient. Focus shockwave therapy can be utilized as part of your OA treatment plan and in combination with other therapies, lifestyle modifications (such as diet and exercise), and medications.
Want to learn more about treating osteoarthritis with Focused Shockwave Therapy in an effort to reduce pain, improve healing, and restore function? Request an appointment with Dr. Carter today.
