What are the Uses of ESWT (Shock Wave Therapy)?
ESWT can be a solution to many orthopedic disorders. While it is frequently used in the treatment of heel spurs, tennis elbow, and golfer's elbow, as well as calcified shoulder pain, it also has applications in many other orthopedic areas such as treating delayed union of fractures, Achilles tendon issues, and relieving hip pain.
Heel Spur Treatment
Heel spur is a condition where tears caused by strain on the foot muscles turn into a bone-like tissue over time. Heel spur, which manifests as pain in the sole when walking, can progress to cause pain that radiates to the leg, causing significant discomfort, particularly in people who work standing all day. Heel spurs, which can result from obesity, standing for long periods, incorrect shoe choices, strenuous sports actions, and rheumatic diseases, can be treated with ESWT.
Tennis and Golfer's Elbow Treatment
Tennis and Golfer's Elbow is a condition that arises due to weakness at the muscle-tendon attachment area of the elbow. Associated with frequent use or strenuous movements of the wrist, this condition is characterized by tenderness and pain in the elbow due to muscle tear and weakening. Tennis and golfer's elbow can be fully and permanently treated with high success rates using ESWT.
Calcified Shoulder Pain Treatment
The exact cause of the condition resulting from the deposition of calcium crystals in the tendons around the shoulder joint is not well-understood, though it is noted that repetitive microtraumas and diabetes increase the likelihood of occurrence. Calcified shoulder pain, which exhibits symptoms like stiffness in the shoulder, severe pain disturbing sleep, and limited movement, can be permanently treated with ESWT.
Advantages of ESWT (Shock Wave Therapy)
ESWT does not require anesthesia, preparation, or rest after treatment. Patients can resume their daily activities immediately after a treatment session lasting between 5-20 minutes. Sessions can be applied at weekly intervals, with the orthopedic specialist determining the number of sessions based on the patient's condition assessment. Frequently preferred due to its advantages, such as causing only infrequent short-term redness and swelling on the skin and providing significant improvement in a short time.
Effects of ESWT (Shock Wave Therapy)
ESWT quickly impacts the treated areas by:
- Accelerating blood flow
- Reducing edema
- Aiding in the repair of bone and tendon tissues
- Supporting collagen formation
- Alleviating muscle spasms
Frequently Asked Questions About ESWT (Shock Wave Therapy)
In today's medical field, non-surgical treatment methods are highly sought after. One of these, ESWT (Shock Wave Therapy), can achieve successful results in various musculoskeletal disorders without the need for surgery.
ESWT shock wave therapy, employing high-energy sound waves applied externally to the body, is a modern technique that aids in tissue regeneration by fostering healing in damaged tissues.
How Does ESWT Work? The basis of ESWT lies in mechanical sound waves causing microtraumas at the cellular level that trigger tissue repair. These microtraumas stimulate the body’s defense system, increasing blood flow in the area, accelerating healing, and providing positive outcomes even in chronic pain cases. This method is preferred in conditions that do not respond or recur after medication treatment, offering great comfort in a short time.
Common Conditions Treated with ESWT
ESWT shock wave therapy is not limited to common issues like heel spurs or tennis elbow.
- Chronic back and neck pain
- Muscle spasms and stiffness
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Anterior knee pain (patellar tendinopathy)
- Trochanteric bursitis around the hip
- Non-union of fractures (pseudoarthrosis)
- Intramuscular trigger points (myofascial pain syndrome)
Who Is Not Suitable for ESWT?
ESWT is not applicable for every condition. The following groups are not suitable for this treatment:
- Pregnant individuals
- Those with active bleeding disorders
- Individuals with coagulation problems (e.g., those taking blood thinners)
- People with severe circulation disorders or vascular diseases
- Its application is discouraged in areas close to tumorous tissues
Post-Treatment Care
While patients can return to their daily lives immediately after ESWT, paying attention to some simple rules can expedite the healing process. It is recommended not to overstrain the area and to rest within the first 24 hours after treatment. Additionally, the prescribed interval between sessions should be adhered to, and the guidance of the specialist doctor should be followed.
What Are the Benefits of ESWT?
- It is a drug-free, injection-free, and surgery-free method
- Has a high success rate
- Effective even in chronic pain
- Sessions are short (5-20 minutes)
- Does not cause loss of work productivity
- Offers a fast recovery process
- Aside from occasional redness and sensitivity seen on the skin, it has no side effects
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sessions does ESWT shock wave therapy take?
The duration of treatment can vary based on the type and severity of the individual’s condition. It is administered in 3 to 6 sessions, planned at one session per week. However, this period may be extended for chronic conditions. An orthopedic specialist's examination and sometimes imaging methods may be necessary to determine the number of sessions.
Is pain felt during and after ESWT therapy?
During application, a brief and mild discomfort may be felt, often described as small vibrations with "tapping" sounds. Some individuals may experience sensitivity in the treatment area after the session. The effects are temporary and do not affect daily life.
Is ESWT a permanent treatment method?
Yes, the effects of ESWT are largely permanent. By supporting tissue regeneration in recurring muscle and tendon issues, it reduces the likelihood of complaints originating from the same area again. However, attention to the patient's lifestyle, shoe choice, and weight control is necessary.
What are the costs of ESWT shock wave therapy?
The costs of ESWT shock wave therapy may vary depending on the area to be treated, the number of sessions, and the healthcare institution where the service is received. While some private clinics offer package session implementations, it may be applied at more affordable rates in public hospitals or facilities contracted with SGK. For precise information, consulting with a specialist doctor and undergoing a detailed examination are required.