What is ESWT?
ESWT (Extracorporeal ShockWave Therapy), i.e. shock wave therapy, is a non-invasive (non-invasive) treatment method that allows powerful sound waves produced outside the body to be focused on the desired part of the body. ESWT is used in the physical therapy process of orthopedic diseases such as tennis elbow, heel spurs and shoulder pain. This treatment is a cortisone-free method that does not require surgery and offers an effective alternative to slow healing processes.
ESWT is based on the principle that shock waves propagate through tissue as sound waves. High-energy shock waves help to reduce pain caused by orthopedic diseases and accelerate healing. This treatment triggers the body's natural healing processes, resulting in a lasting cure.
How does ESWT Work?
ESWT works by focusing high-energy shock waves on the area of the body to be treated. These sound waves penetrate deeply into the tissues in the target area and initiate healing processes. The shock waves increase blood circulation, relieve pain and accelerate tissue damage repair.
ESWT delivers 10 times higher energy than ultrasonic devices to the application area in a very short time (1 microsecond), which speeds up the treatment process.
ESWT Application
ESWT treatment begins with the patient lying down in a comfortable position on the area to be treated. Gel is applied to the treatment area for effective transmission of shock waves. Then, high-energy shock waves are delivered to the treatment area with the shock wave head. This process usually takes 10-20 minutes. During the treatment, patients may feel a slight feeling of discomfort or warmth, but this is usually tolerable. After the session, patients can usually return to their normal activities.
During ESWT treatment, most patients may feel a slight warming sensation at the treatment site and a relaxing effect that is different from traditional pain. After treatment, some patients may experience mild pain and tenderness, but this is temporary.
In which diseases is ESWT treatment effective?
ESWT is particularly used in the treatment of orthopedic conditions and is effective in the following cases:
- Elbow (tennis elbow, golfer's elbow)
- Shoulder (frozen shoulder, rotator cuff problems)
- Heel (heel spur, plantar fasciitis)
- Back and neck pain
- Chronic muscle and tendon problems
- Knee, hip, wrist and ankle problems
- Muscle spasms and soft tissue injuries
- Pseudoarthroses (non-union fractures)
ESWT is a particularly suitable treatment option for patients with this type of pain and restricted mobility. Usually, ESWT is applied to painful muscles, joints and soft tissues.
What is the Recovery Process After ESWT Treatment?
Recovery after ESWT treatment is usually fast. Patients can usually return to their daily activities immediately after treatment. After the first session, some patients may feel a slight pain or tenderness in the treatment area, but this usually goes away in a short time. During the treatment, blood circulation increases and the healing process of the tissues begins, the healing time may vary from patient to patient. Regular follow-up and adherence to treatment recommendations will speed up the healing process.
Is ESWT Treatment Safe?
ESWT is a non-invasive treatment and is generally considered safe. However, it should not be used in some cases. In special cases, such as pregnant women, cancerous lesions and varicose veins, it is necessary to consult a doctor before treatment. Also, if pain is felt during treatment, the procedure should be stopped immediately and the doctor should be contacted. When administered by specialists, ESWT treatment is very safe and shows no side effects in the long term.
Advantages of ESWT
- Non-Surgical Treatment: ESWT reduces pain and accelerates healing without the need for surgical intervention. Physical therapy provides significant support and reduces the need for pain medication or surgical intervention.
- Without cortisone: No cortisone or medication is used during treatment, which avoids potential side effects.
- Permanent Recovery: ESWT triggers the body's own healing mechanisms, reducing the chance of recurrence.
- Short Impact: Shock waves work quickly, so patients recover in less time.
- Pain-Free: No pain is felt during treatment; on the contrary, many patients experience the soothing effect of shockwaves.
ESWT Use at Romatem
Romatem Hospitals effectively use ESWT as part of the physical therapy process in the treatment of many orthopedic diseases such as tennis elbow, heel spurs and shoulder pain. Thanks to this innovative treatment method, Romatem provides its patients with non-surgical, cortisone-free and permanent recovery and improves the quality of life of patients during the treatment process. ESWT treatment offers an important step to ensure that patients recover quickly and continue their lives in a healthier way.