Shockwave Therapy for Persistent Pain

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing in various conditions, with 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.

There are two main types of shockwave therapy, both offered at Akron Children’s:

Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT):

Radial shockwave therapy (RSWT), also known as radial pressure wave therapy, uses lower-energy acoustic waves that spread out in a broad, radial pattern from the point of application. This makes it an effective treatment for superficial conditions that affect a broader area, such as tendons and trigger points

Focused Shock Wave Therapy (FSWT)

Unlike RSWT, this type of therapy uses high-intensity sound waves that converge at a specific point within the body. This specific targeting allows for the treatment of deep-tissue injuries and conditions.

Which therapy should I choose?

The choice between focused and radial shockwave therapy is determined by the specific condition, the depth of the affected tissues, and the treatment goals. Dr. Eddy will consult with you to ensure you make the proper selection.

Does the procedure require anesthesia?

The procedure is performed in an office/clinic, does not require anesthesia, and requires a minimal amount of time. Patients can immediately bear weight (i.e. walk) and return to normal activity within a few days of the procedure.

Shockwave therapy uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing in damaged tissues, promoting healing and recovery, helping you get back to doing the things you love faster.

Shockwave therapy is primarily used in the treatment of common musculoskeletal conditions, including:

• Achilles tendinopathy
• Adductor tendinopathy syndrome
• Calcifying tendinopathy of the shoulder
• Chronic tendinopathies
• Delayed fracture healing
• De Quervain disease
• Foot and ankle tendinopathies
• Greater trochanter pain syndrome/hip Bursitis
• Lateral epicondylopathy of the elbow (tennis elbow)
• Medial tibial stress syndrome (shin splints)
• Muscle Strains
• Patellar tendinopathy
• Pes-Anserinus tendinopathy syndrome
• Peroneal tendinopathy
• Plantar fasciitis (with or without heel spur)
• Stress fractures
• Scar Tissue Treatment

Patients may experience temporary, mild discomfort that lasts for a few days. This is a normal side effect of shockwave therapy. This is a normal reaction and can be compared to the ache and stiffness experienced after a strenuous physical workout.

After a thorough examination, Dr. Eddy will determine the appropriate treatment intensity, and the number of sessions needed for your condition. Treatment sessions take approximately 10-20 minutes depending on the disorder to be treated. Generally, 3-6 treatment sessions are necessary at weekly intervals. More chronic conditions may require more sessions.

While some individuals experience instant pain relief, it's important to remember that the full healing effect of shockwave therapy is a gradual process, with noticeable pain reduction sometimes taking as long as four weeks to start.

Scheduling a consultation is the proper first step for shockwave therapy. During this initial visit, Dr. Eddy will assess your medical history and specific condition to confirm if you are a good candidate for the treatment.

To schedule a consultation, call 330-543-2128.