how shockwave therapy can help your pain

Shockwave therapy is a physical modality or device that was first developed in Europe (Germany). It can also be referred to as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) or Focal Shockwave Therapy (FSWT). When we talk about shockwave therapy in this case we are not talking about electrical stimulation. The shockwaves we are referring to are sound waves…like the sonic boom from an airplane rather than the electric shock from an electrode or plug in the wall. Shockwave therapy uses a mechanical sound wave to stimulate physiological changes within the body, which will promote improved mobility and function of tissues and joints and reduce pain. Shockwave will also stimulate the body to heal itself.

Not all “shockwave therapy” is shockwave therapy. Most clinics in Edmonton and the area use Radial Pressure Wave Therapy (RPWT). This device does not produce an actual shockwave. It can still be effective for pain and dysfunction, but does not tend to be as effective as actual shockwave therapy. Here at Serene Radiance we use both Radial Pressure Wave Therapy and “real” Focal Shockwave Therapy (FSWT).

The Shockwave device we use at EuroCanadian Shockwave uses the same technology as doctor’s use in hospitals to break-up kidney stones (Lithotripsy). It is not the same device. The device we use has been adapted for use on musculoskeletal and urological conditions.

The differences between RPWT and FSWT are as follows:

The main features of RPWT are:

• Can penetrate up to 4 cm into the tissues
• Very effective in reducing muscle and fascia tightness
• Loosen or break down scar tissue and adhesions
• Improves circulation in existing blood vessels
• Reduces inflammation and pain
• Can feel like a deep massage or pulsation
• Does not have to be painful to produce positive results

The main features of FSWT are:

• Can penetrate up to 12 cm into the tissues
• More effective in loosening or breaking down scar tissue and adhesions
• Stimulates stem cell migration to the area of treatment
• Stimulates growth of new blood vessels in the area of treatment
• Promotes healing of tissues
• Can feel like a deep ache, deep pressure or a "needling" sensation
• Does not have to be painful to produce positive results

Most musculoskeletal conditions will require 3-5 treatments usually one week apart. In many cases, improvements can be noticed after the first treatment. Occasionally, improvements are noticed gradually over time after the treatments are completed.

The Storz Medical group in Switzerland manufactured the devices that we use at EuroCanadian Shockwave Therapy. This company specializes in shockwave therapy devices. They have been developing and manufacturing shockwave therapy devices and accessories since 1987.

The devices that we use are also highly adjustable. Therefore, we can set the strength of the treatment to a comfortable level for almost all clients, even if highly sensitive or in acute or severe pain.

All shockwave treatments at EuroCanadian Shockwave Therapy are performed by Gary Wedman, BSc. PT.  He is a physiotherapist with 29 years experience in helping people of all ages with a wide variety of injuries and conditions causing pain, decreased mobility, decreased function, and affecting quality of life.  He has 7 years experience treating clients almost exclusively with Shockwave Therapy.  With Shockwave Therapy, his clients are achieving better results in a shorter period of time than with any other treatment technology or technique he has used in his career.