Shockwave Therapy for Pain Relief in Marin County

Shockwave therapy is used to treat musculoskeletal aches and pains focusing on tendons, tendon attachments, and muscular conditions. It has been shown to be a highly effective, non-invasive process approved by the FDA for specific treatments.

Let's start with a shockwave consultation (clinical history) and diagnostic scan to see if shockwave is right for you!

What is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave Therapy uses sound waves to create mechanical/physical pulses in the muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments and other connective tissues. These acoustic waves go deep into the body and break down any calcific fibroblasts and scar tissue in the treatment area. Simultaneously, these sound impulses also stimulate tissue repair & regeneration while provoking an inflammatory response. You’ll notice better microcirculation in the musculoskeletal region, along with increased collagen production. Together, this heals the injury in the musculoskeletal treatment site, offering pain and symptom relief.

Disorders Treatable With Shockwave

• Foot and Ankle – Plantar Fasciitis / Achilles Tendonitis / Shin Splints

• Calves/Arches – Trigger Points & Myofascial Pain

• Knee – Patellar Tendonitis / Runners Knee / Iliotibial Band Syndrome

• Hip – Trochanteric Bursitis / Gluteal Tendonitis / Upper Hamstring Strains

• Shoulder – Rotator Cuff Dysfunction / Calcific Tendonitis

• Elbow – Tennis Elbow / Golfers Elbow

• Neck / Trap / Scapula / Lower-Mid Back – Trigger Point & Myofascial Pain

What Are The Benefits of Shockwave?

• Evidence-based and FDA approved

• Non-invasive - doesn't require medication, non-surgical, making it a safe and drug free treatment

• No risk of infection

• No scarring

• No downtime - patients can immediately resume daily activities

• Cost effective

• Fast and effective - many patients report significant pain relief and increased mobility after a few sessions

• Can be combined with chiropractic adjustments

• Versatility - it can be applied to various areas of the body, including the back, shoulders, hips, knees, and feet, making it suitable for different conditions and parts of the musculoskeletal system.

• Long-Term Results - Shockwave therapy not only provides immediate pain relief but also encourages the body's natural healing processes, promoting lasting results.

• Over 80% patient satisfaction

What Are The Expected Results?

Shockwave uses sound waves to disrupt the transmission of pain neurotransmitters through the body, which means the acoustic energy is working on a molecular level to rearrange and correct how your body interprets pain. To do this, it will require several weeks to reach the full potential of the treatment. Typically, at least five treatment sessions are needed at weekly intervals to notice significant improvement, although additional sessions may be required. However, fewer sessions are preferable if effective. Each treatment lasts about 10-15 minutes.

The speed of improvement and the number of sessions required depend on several factors, including the patient's age, the duration of their condition, overall health, activity levels during treatment, and adherence to home stretches and exercises recommended by the doctor.

The majority of patients who use this treatment have enjoyed results. In clinical studies, about 91% of patients reported successful results, including a decrease in chronic pain, increase in mobility, and other health improvements. Roughly 80% of all patients report satisfaction with the results of this treatment.

How Is Shockwave Performed?

The doctor will begin by identifying the specific treatment areas. A thin layer of coupling gel will be applied to these sites. The treatment will start at a very low output setting, gradually increasing to a power level that you help determine, best suited for your condition. As the doctor moves the therapy device around the treatment area, you might feel a deep, dull ache. The doctor will ask you to report when you feel this ache and will adjust the device's output to the appropriate level for your treatment.

Possible Side Effects Or Complications

The non-invasive shockwave treatment has virtually no long-term risks or side effects.

The therapy can be uncomfortable during application and for about 1-2 days following. This is expected although not desired and we will vary the strength and frequency to keep it to the patient’s tolerance.

In some cases, patients may experience some noted localized bruising, redness, swelling, and sensitivity to touch for 24 to 48 hours after the Shockwave session.

​​​​​​​What If I Have A Special Condition?

Shockwave therapy is generally safe and effective when performed by a professional, but there are some circumstances where it's not recommended. A specialist will review your medical history before treatment to assess your suitability.

​​​​​​​Shockwave therapy is not appropriate if a patient has one of these conditions:

• Malignancies / Cancerous Tumors

• Serious Cardiovascular Disorders

• DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) or bleeding disorder

• Pregnancy

• Pacemaker

​​​​​​​ Tips To Improve Your Results

• Make sure to eat a good well-balanced diet with plenty of protein

• Increase your water intake

• Reduce training volume by 50% for 2 days after each Shockwave session

• Discontinue the use of any/all NSAIDS 3 days before your treatment and for 3 days after treatment begins

• Do not apply ice

• Heat the area 10-20 minutes every 3-4 hours after treatment for the first three days to promote blood flow to the area