Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave Therapy in St. Albert

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is an innovative, non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to target various musculoskeletal conditions. This clinically proven therapy promotes pain relief, speeds up tissue healing, and enhances mobility.

Conditions Treated with Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is highly effective for a variety of conditions, including:

  • Achilles tendonitis
  • Avascular necrosis
  • Bone spurs
  • Bursitis
  • Calcific tendonitis
  • Chronic pain syndrome
  • Enthesiopathies
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Hallux rigidus
  • Ligament sprains
  • Metatarsalgia
  • Motor vehicle accident injuries
  • Muscle strains
  • Myofascial pain syndromes
  • Patellar tendinopathy
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Rotator cuff tendinopathy
  • Shin splints
  • Osteoarthritis-related symptoms
  • Tennis elbow & golfer’s elbow (epicondylitis)
  • Trigger points
  • Trochanteric pain syndrome

How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?

Shockwave therapy generates controlled acoustic waves that penetrate deep into tissues, creating both pressure and tension forces. This process triggers a range of healing responses, including:

  • Enhanced microcirculation: Increases blood flow and nutrient exchange.
  • Breakdown of calcific deposits: Targets unhealthy cells and calcium buildup.
  • Cellular regeneration: Stimulates healing and reduces pain.
  • Pain modulation: Alters nerve signaling, reducing pain perception.

After the initial pressure wave, a negative pressure effect follows, creating cavitation bubbles. These microbubbles expand and collapse, further assisting in breaking down unhealthy tissues and promoting regeneration.

Types of Shockwave Therapy

There are two main types of shockwave therapy:

  • Radial Shockwave Therapy: Uses a broad, low-intensity wave that spreads out over a larger treatment area.
  • Focused Shockwave Therapy: Targets specific tissues with a more concentrated wave.

At our St. Albert clinic, we use radial shockwave therapy to effectively treat musculoskeletal conditions with minimal discomfort.

Scientific Principles Behind Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is powered by high-energy pulses generated by an air-compressed device. These pulses travel through a treatment head and penetrate targeted tissues. Since shockwaves pass through well-hydrated tissues (such as blood vessels and healthy cells) with minimal resistance, they specifically focus on treating desiccated or damaged tissues, including scar tissue, fibrotic deposits, and calcifications.

FAQs

  • Patients are advised to wear comfortable clothing that allows access to the treatment area.
  • A conductive ultrasound gel is applied to the skin to optimize wave transmission.
  • The practitioner selects the appropriate settings and treatment head for the best therapeutic effect.
  • During treatment, patients may experience mild discomfort, typically rated at 6-7 on a 10-point pain scale.
  • As the therapy progresses, discomfort generally decreases.

  • Most patients experience immediate pain relief after their session.
  • Some may feel temporary discomfort, tingling, redness, or mild bruising lasting a few days to two weeks.
  • A subset of patients may not notice immediate results but experience gradual symptom relief over six months.
  • Patients should avoid ice, heat, or topical treatments for 12-24 hours post-treatment unless advised otherwise.
  • Staying hydrated after the session enhances the healing response.
  • Shockwave therapy can be combined with other treatments like chiropractic care, massage, physiotherapy, or acupuncture.

  • Pain relief can occur within 1-2 sessions for many conditions.
  • Full resolution typically requires 3-4 treatments, depending on severity and chronicity.
  • Sessions are spaced between 72 hours to 15 days apart for optimal results.
  • A follow-up evaluation is conducted after 6 weeks to assess progress and determine if additional sessions are needed.

Ideal candidates for shockwave therapy include those who:

  • Have a diagnosis that responds well to shockwave treatment.
  • Have not achieved relief through conventional treatments.
  • Understand the procedure and its benefits.
  • Do not have contraindications (see below).

Contraindications for Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is not recommended for individuals with:

  • Active cancerous tumors or deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
  • Certain metabolic, vascular, or nervous disorders
  • Open wounds or infections at the treatment site
  • Pregnancy (avoid use over the abdomen, pelvis, or lower back)
  • Open growth plates (in children/adolescents)
  • High gas/air content tissues (e.g., lungs)
  • Treatment sites near the eyes or reproductive organs

  • Non-invasive & drug-free: No surgery, no medications, and minimal downtime.
  • Clinically proven: Supported by extensive research for pain relief and tissue regeneration.
  • Rapid results: Many patients experience pain reduction within a few sessions.
  • Safe & effective: Suitable for various musculoskeletal conditions with minimal side effects.

Book Your Shockwave Therapy Consultation Today!

If you’re struggling with chronic pain or an injury that hasn’t responded to other treatments, shockwave therapy in St. Albert may be the solution you need. Contact us today to book an appointment and take the first step toward pain relief and improved mobility.

Headache & Migraine

Whiplash & Car Accidents

Sports Injuries

Workplace Injuries

Back & Neck Pain