Shockwave Therapy

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What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy is a modality that uses a specific frequency of sound waves to remodel tissue and stimulate healing in the body. It is a modern and non-invasive therapy administered by our doctors and physical therapists that has great potential to repair the structure of underlying tissue. We use radial shockwave therapy, which allows us to cover a larger treatment area and address a wide range of musculoskeletal and spine-related conditions. This therapy has proven effective in repairing tendons, ligaments, fascia, and even certain bone injuries that are resistant to healing.

The therapy works by sending controlled acoustic waves into injured tendons, ligaments, and fascia. These waves create microtrauma that stimulates the body’s natural repair process, improving blood flow, breaking down scar tissue, and encouraging new cell growth. Over time, this helps remodel tissue that has been slow or resistant to healing. By promoting true tissue regeneration rather than simply masking symptoms, shockwave therapy provides patients with a powerful option for long-term recovery.

Shockwave Therapy Benefits

Shockwave therapy is an effective treatment option for patients who have not responded to rest, physical therapy, or medication. Shockwave therapy is often used alongside regenerative medicine treatments like PRP therapy or stem cell injections to enhance healing and improve outcomes. Key benefits include:

Shockwave therapy stimulates the body’s natural repair mechanisms at the cellular level. The acoustic waves trigger controlled microtrauma that encourages new collagen production, which strengthens and restores the structure of tendons, ligaments, and fascia. Over time, this remodeling process helps rebuild damaged tissue, making it more resilient and functional.

Unlike surgery or more invasive procedures, shockwave therapy does not require incisions, injections, or downtime. Instead, it targets the source of chronic pain by treating damaged tissue directly. Patients can experience meaningful pain reduction as the therapy improves tissue health, often allowing them to return to daily activities and exercise without the risks associated with surgery.

The controlled shockwaves improve circulation in the treated area, delivering more oxygen and nutrients that are critical for repair. This increase in blood flow accelerates the body’s healing timeline while also stimulating the growth of new cells. For patients with injuries that have stalled in the healing process, shockwave therapy provides the boost needed to restart recovery.

Scar tissue buildup can limit flexibility and restrict normal joint movement. Shockwave therapy helps break down these adhesions, softening tight tissues and restoring natural range of motion. As stiffness decreases, patients often find they can move more freely and comfortably, improving overall quality of life and reducing the likelihood of reinjury.

physical therapist doing shockwave therapy

Who is a Good Candidate for Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy can benefit patients with a wide range of chronic or hard-to-treat musculoskeletal problems, including:

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What to Expect During Your Shockwave Therapy Session

Shockwave therapy sessions are quick and efficient, typically lasting five to seven minutes. The treatment is performed by one of our physical therapists in an outpatient setting in conjunction with physical therapy. Most patients undergo four to eight sessions, usually spaced five to seven days apart, depending on their specific condition. You may feel some mild discomfort during the treatment, which is normal and indicates the therapy is working to stimulate healing. Many patients notice significant improvements within two to three months of initial treatment.

radio shockwave therapy machine

Why VSI Offers Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is more than just a treatment, it is part of our comprehensive philosophy on recovery. We believe recovery starts before your surgery even takes place and continues long after the procedure is complete. This forward-thinking approach is at the heart of the Recovery Revolution™, a movement created to transform how patients experience healing and restoration.

Shockwave therapy is one of the advanced tools we use to set the stage for optimal recovery. This therapy remodels damaged tissue, enhances your healing capacity, and accelerates your return to the life you love. It is part of our 5 Pillars of Recovery, which include cutting-edge technology, surgical precision, continuity of care, and specialized recovery modalities.

Frequently Asked Questions on Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is considered very safe when performed by trained providers. Because it is non-invasive and drug-free, most patients tolerate it well and can return to normal activities immediately after treatment.

Shockwave therapy is included as part of your physical therapy treatment plan and does not add any extra cost. If your doctor or physical therapist recommends shockwave therapy for your condition, it will be provided as part of your standard session.

Each session is 5-7 minutes long and doesn’t require any special medical requirements. A doctor or trained physical therapist will conduct the treatment and ensure its effectiveness.

To maximize benefits, sessions should be administered five to seven days apart. Depending on the location of the treatment and the needs of the individual patient, four to eight sessions may be encouraged.

Mild discomfort is expected and normal during shockwave therapy, and indicates that the therapy is effectively transforming the body’s tissue that needs healing.

Patients often experience results from shockwave therapy within two to three months of starting treatment.

Yes, shockwave therapy is safe if you have metal implants or hardware from surgery. It is not recommended directly over areas with metal implants, but otherwise has very few restrictions.

While shockwave therapy doesn’t require a prescription, order or referral, you do need a thorough evaluation at VSI prior to any treatment being performed. To get started, speak with one of our New Patient Coordinators and they will get you scheduled for an appropriate evaluation with a specialist to discuss your treatment options, including shockwave therapy.