Shockwave Therapy for Tendon Pain

Shockwave Therapy for Tendon Pain

Tendon pain can make the simplest activities—like running, walking, or even lifting objects—feel like an uphill battle. When tendon pain strikes, traditional treatments don’t always resolve issues.

Enter shockwave therapy, a revolutionary, non-invasive treatment designed to promote healing and reduce pain for tendon injuries and other musculoskeletal conditions. But what exactly is shockwave therapy, how does it work, and could it be the solution for you? Learning about this innovative treatment and its potential to get you back to the activities you love is the first step towards long-lasting recovery.

What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy acoustic sound waves to stimulate the body’s natural healing process. These sound waves are directed into the injured area, increasing blood flow, promoting healing, and alleviating pain.

We use this in conjunction of physical therapy and it’s particularly effective for injuries that have not responded to more conventional treatments, such as oral pain medication. It is widely used to treat chronic conditions like tendinopathy.

How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?

The process is simple yet effective. During a shockwave therapy session:

• A healthcare provider applies a gel to the injured area to improve sound wave transmission.
• A handheld device is then placed on the skin, delivering acoustic waves to the affected tendon or tissue.

These waves trigger several healing mechanisms:

• Enhanced Blood Flow: The therapy increases circulation to the injured site, accelerating the body's repair processes.
• Tendon Remodeling: The waves stimulate cellular activity, to promote the body’s repair and remodeling pathways for damaging tissues.
• Pain Reduction: Shockwave therapy reduces discomfort by nerve descension. 

The sessions are quick, with each procedure taking about 5–10 minutes. To achieve the best results, patients typically undergo 3–5 sessions spaced over several weeks.

What Is Shockwave Therapy Used For?

Shockwave therapy is a versatile treatment with applications across various injuries and conditions. Common uses include:

• Tendinopathy (e.g., Rotator cuff, achilles, hamstring, quadriceps and gluteal)
• Plantar Fasciitis (heel pain caused by inflammation of the foot's connective tissue)
• Calcific Tendonitis (calcium deposits in tendons, often affecting the shoulder)
• Stress Fractures
• Patellar tendinopathy (jumper’s knee)
• Hip and Gluteal Injuries
• Tennis elbow

It’s also gaining popularity among athletes seeking to accelerate recovery and optimize performance while avoiding invasive procedures.

At Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics, patients have access to this advanced treatment to safely address long-standing injuries.

How Long Does Shockwave Therapy Last?

One of the standout benefits of shockwave therapy is its long-term efficacy. While some patients may notice improvement after the first session, significant results typically appear after completing the full course of treatments. Healing continues for weeks following the final session as the body attempts to repairs itself.

While the results vary by individual, many patients report lasting relief from pain and improved mobility, making shockwave therapy a preferred option for managing chronic conditions.

Can You Exercise After Shockwave Therapy?

A frequently asked question is whether it’s safe to resume physical activity post-treatment. The answer depends on your condition and injury severity.

• Immediate Recovery: Patients are typically advised to avoid high-impact or strenuous activities for 48 hours after a session.
• Gradual Resumption: Light activities, such as walking or stretching, may be allowed during recovery. Always follow your healthcare provider's recommendations.

By gradually incorporating exercise, you’ll help promote healing and avoid aggravating the treated tendon or muscle tissue.

Benefits of Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is packed with advantages that make it a compelling alternative to more invasive treatments:

• Non-Invasive: No needles, no surgeries, and no downtime.
• Minimal Side Effects: Patients may experience mild redness or swelling, which typically subsides within days.
• Quick Treatment Time: Each session lasts only minutes, so it easily fits into busy schedules.
• Safe and Proven: Countless studies and clinical applications reinforce its effectiveness in treating musculoskeletal injuries.
• Accelerated Healing: Particularly for chronic injuries, shockwave therapy can speed up tissue repair and reduce recovery time.

If you’re based near Carmel, Greenwood, Noblesville, or Tipton, IN, the team at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics is specially trained in administering this advanced treatment.

Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You?

Shockwave therapy is great for chronic, persistent injuries that haven’t responded to other treatments, such as rest, physical therapy, or medication. However, it’s not the right option for everyone. There are certain cases where shockwave therapy may not be recommended. Your healthcare provider might suggest alternative treatments if you:

• Are pregnant, as the treatment could potentially pose risks to the developing fetus.
• Have a blood clotting disorder or are taking anticoagulants, which may increase the risk of bleeding during the procedure.
• Have a significant infection or open wounds in the area to be treated, as these conditions can interfere with the therapy’s effectiveness and safety.
• Have nerve damage or circulation problems in the affected area, which could limit the treatment’s ability to stimulate healing effectively.

To determine whether shockwave therapy is a suitable option for you, a consultation with a physician at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics is essential. During this visit, experts will assess your medical history, current condition, and treatment goals to create a personalized care plan that best supports your recovery and overall health.

Start Your Healing Journey Today

If you’re struggling with ongoing tendon pain that’s holding you back, shockwave therapy could be the game-changing solution you’ve been searching for. With its blend of innovation, effectiveness, and safety, it offers renewed hope for anyone tired of living with chronic pain.

Experience the difference that shockwave therapy can make. Call (317) 817-1200 to schedule a consultation with Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics today at one of our convenient locations in Carmel, Greenwood, Noblesville or Tipton, IN. Our team of experts will craft a personalized plan to get you back to doing what you love, pain-free.