How Shock Wave Therapy Helps Achilles Tendinopathy
Looking to get therapy for Achilles tendinopathy? Then consider extracorporeal pulse activation treatment and focused shockwave. This advanced and straightforward therapy utilizes the body’s natural healing system to treat Achilles tendinopathy—also known as Achilles tendonitis. But how does it work? Here’s an overview of shock wave therapy for Achilles tendonitis, from the science behind the procedure to the benefits it provides.
What Is Achilles Tendinopathy?
First, let’s review what Achilles tendinopathy is, including the body tissue affected. Your Achilles tendon is one of the longest and strongest tendons in the body and connects the heel bone to the calf muscle of the lower leg. Compared to other tendons, which have a sheath—two layers of surrounding connective tissue—the Achilles tendon has a paratenon, which is a vascularized layer of cells.
An Achilles tendinopathy occurs due to repeated microtrauma and impact loading on the tendon. More specifically, tendinopathy refers to the fraying of a tendon because of failed healing. These traits make Achilles tendinopathy a common overuse injury in sports medicine, especially among runners who increase the length or intensity of their workouts.
How Does Achilles Shockwave Therapy Work?
While extracorporeal pulse activation treatment and focused shockwave may sound complicated, the procedure is relatively simple. After applying a gel to the area that will receive treatment, the focused device releases electromagnetic acoustic sound waves over the injured area. The energy from these shockwaves penetrates the tissue and helps kickstart the body’s natural healing. Cells in that region respond to the energy by releasing biochemicals that improve the rejuvenation process.
Focused shock wave therapy for Achilles tendonitis also stimulates the body’s revascularization—or blood vessel formation—which boosts blood circulation in that area. Thanks to the increased blood flow, it becomes easier for nutrients to reach the damaged area, and healing occurs even faster. Further, research has shown that EPAT and focused shockwave should be used as an initial treatment alongside eccentric exercise.
Benefits of Focused Shock Wave Therapy for Achilles Tendonitis
The effectiveness of extracorporeal pulse activation treatment and focused shockwave has been demonstrated in several studies. A high percentage of patients with Achilles tendonitis were able to achieve a complete recovery in a few months thanks to the procedure. Focused shock wave therapy for Achilles tendonitis has also proven to offer many other benefits, including:
Fast Treatment
Achilles shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment option that only takes about 15 minutes. Athletes who want to get back to practice will appreciate that no surgery is required and that they’ll start to see improvements after around ten weeks.
Safe Procedure
There are no dangerous side effects involved with the treatment. Additionally, steroids and painkillers are not used. Plus, the technology is FDA-approved.
Pain Reduction
Focused shock wave therapy for Achilles tendonitis can overstimulate nerves responsible for pain transmission, which can reduce sensitivity and pain. Not only does this relieve pain, but it can also help restore mobility in the region.
If you’re searching for the best pain management doctors in Philadelphia, contact Dr. David W. Nadler & Associates today. Our advanced chiropractic care in Philadelphia and other physical therapy services can help ease your pain and help you regain mobility.