FAQs regarding shockwave therapy
What does shockwave therapy do?
Shockwave therapy is a natural, noninvasive method of care that provides acoustic pulses to impacted soft tissues. These pulses will reduce discomfort and safely promote the body’s self-healing process.
How is shockwave therapy used?
When this procedure is utilized, Dr. Donahue will first apply a layer of gel to the patient’s skin over the affected area. This gel is used to conduct shockwaves for the probe that will be placed on the skin. The probe is then moved over the skin in a gliding motion and can be set to different degrees of energy waves, depending on the injury and where it’s located, among other considerations.
The session usually lasts about five to ten minutes, and most patients require three to seven sessions, depending on the severity of the condition.
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
During the sessions with Dr. Donahue, patients are relaxed and at ease. Shockwave therapy offers minimal, if any, discomfort. In some cases, when the compromised area is passed over with the probe, the patient experiences a slight ache in the soft tissues; however, while over unaffected tissues, only small pulses against the skin will be felt.
We encourage you to communicate how you’re feeling throughout the process, and if you’re ever uncomfortable with the therapy, we can adjust the energy output accordingly. Like with any new treatment, getting used to it will alleviate your insecurities, and with more use comes increased comfort during your sessions.
After the session ends, you will not have residual pain due to the treatment, and if your injury allows, you can go to work, exercise, and otherwise continue your daily activities.
Is shockwave therapy safe?
Acoustic wave therapy is completely safe and works incredibly fast. In many instances, patients will find immediate relief after the session ends. Shockwave therapy quickly restores soft tissue dysfunction, helping with range of motion and mobility without the harmful effects of medication or surgery.
This is an outpatient, natural and safe therapy that has a proven track record of benefiting several kinds of patients and injuries.
