Shockwave therapy has become a known treatment for various musculoskeletal conditions, from plantar fasciitis to chronic tendonitis. It uses acoustic waves to promote healing in injured tissues by stimulating circulation and cell regeneration. While many patients experience significant relief from pain, ESWT shockwave therapy may come with some side effects. Understanding these side effects and addressing common concerns is essential for anyone considering this treatment through shockwave therapy in Grande Prairie.
Shockwave Therapy Side Effects: What to Expect
1. Mild Discomfort During Treatment
Mild to moderate discomfort is a common concern during shockwave therapy. The treatment delivers high-energy sound waves to targeted areas, which can be incredibly uncomfortable over bony regions with less soft tissue. The discomfort is usually temporary, but patients may feel a stinging or pressure sensation as the shockwaves stimulate tissue repair. This process triggers natural healing responses, which can momentarily cause discomfort. However, most patients tolerate it well, and clinicians adjust the intensity of the waves to suit individual pain thresholds.
2. Redness and Swelling
Redness and swelling are frequent side effects after shockwave therapy, as increased blood flow and tissue stimulation are part of the healing process. The body’s natural response to the treatment includes mild inflammation, which results in temporary redness and swelling in the treated area. These effects are generally short-lived, lasting a few hours or days, and indicate that the therapy actively encourages tissue repair and circulation.
3. Bruising
Bruising may occur occasionally when shockwave therapy is applied to areas with thin skin or minimal muscle mass, such as the heel or elbow. The acoustic waves exert pressure on the tissues, which can cause tiny blood vessels to rupture, leading to visible bruises. This bruising is usually mild and resolves independently within a few days, with no long-term effects.
4. Tingling Sensation
A tingling or prickling sensation in the treated area is another common side effect. The shockwaves stimulate nerve endings, causing a temporary tingling feeling as the nerves are activated. This side effect is typically mild and lasts only a few hours after treatment, gradually subsiding as the nerves settle down.
5. Temporary Increase in Pain
Ironically, shockwave therapy can sometimes cause a temporary increase in pain at the treatment site. This usually lasts for a few hours or up to a day. Treatment stimulates the healing process, which can initially aggravate the injury and cause increased pain before improvement is noticed. This response is normal and indicates that the body is reacting to the treatment as expected.
6. Skin Irritation
Sometimes, patients may experience skin irritation or a mild rash where the shockwaves are applied. This is more common in individuals with sensitive skin. The irritation is caused by the device’s friction or the waves’ direct impact on the skin’s surface. Typically, the irritation resolves quickly with proper care, such as using soothing creams or reducing exposure to the treated area.
7. Numbness
Temporary numbness in the treated area is a rare side effect but occurs due to shockwaves’ effects on the nerves. The therapy may briefly affect nerve conduction, leading to a feeling of numbness or a lack of sensation in the area. This numbness usually fades within a few hours as the nerves recover from the stimulation.
8. Headache or Dizziness
When shockwave therapy is applied near the head, neck, or shoulders, some patients may experience headaches or dizziness. These symptoms are more likely when treating upper body conditions like calcific shoulder tendonitis. The sound waves may affect nerves or muscles that connect to the head, causing tension that leads to a headache or dizziness. However, these effects are resolved on their own.
9. Fatigue
Some patients report feeling fatigued after shockwave therapy, particularly after the initial treatments. The body uses significant energy to repair tissues after therapy, which can lead to feelings of tiredness or exhaustion. This symptom is temporary and can be managed with adequate rest and hydration.
10. Delayed Healing
In rare instances, shockwave therapy may slow the healing process instead of speeding it up. This can happen if the treatment is too aggressive or frequent, causing excessive tissue irritation. Overstimulation can impede healing by overwhelming the body’s natural recovery processes. Following the physiotherapist’s treatment schedule and allowing enough recovery between sessions are essential for optimal healing.
Addressing Shockwave Therapy Concerns: The Takeaway
Shockwave therapy (ESWT) is generally a safe and effective treatment option for musculoskeletal conditions. However, it’s essential to be aware of the potential side effects of shockwave therapy in Grande Prairie. While most are mild and temporary, understanding them feel more confident in their treatment plans through shockwave therapy in Grande Prairie. For those seeking a non-invasive option to promote healing, shockwave therapy could be the answer.
Contact GP Pain Physiotherapy today to schedule a consultation for a pain-free life!
