Some people may experience relief after a single session, but the full benefits of shockwave therapy may take several weeks or months to become fully apparent. Effectiveness can vary among individuals and depend on factors such as medical history, type of pain, location of pain, symptom severity, and type of shockwave therapy administered.
In general, it is not uncommon for people to need a series of shockwave therapy sessions, typically spaced one to two weeks apart, to achieve the desired results. After the initial series of treatments, some people may benefit from periodic maintenance sessions to help maintain the benefits of treatment. Your shockwave therapy treatment provider can help you determine the best course and length of treatment for your specific needs.
What to Expect During Your Shockwave Therapy
During shockwave therapy, a device generates sound waves that are transmitted through your skin to the affected area. These sound waves send a special type of energy to deeper tissues that stimulates the production of new blood vessels and promotes the healing of damaged tissue. Before you get started with your treatment, you will be asked to remove any clothing or jewelry that may be in the way of the treatment area.
The Shockwave Procedure
During your shockwave therapy sessions, you may sit, lie down, or stand in various positions while your doctor applies the treatment. A trained healthcare provider will hold the shockwave device against your skin and move it over the treatment area in a gentle, circular motion.
What Shockwave Therapy Feels Like
Some people report feeling a light tapping or pulsing sensation as the device moves across the skin, but shockwaves do not cause pain or discomfort.
Length of Shockwave Sessions
A shockwave therapy session could last as few as 5-10 minutes, depending on the size of your treatment area and the severity of your condition.
Side Effects After Shockwave Treatment
After the treatment is over, many people do not experience any side effects. Some mild side effects of shockwave therapy that may last for a few minutes or hours after the treatment include some tenderness or soreness in the area. Talk to your doctor about how you are feeling after the treatment, and they can make recommendations for you to ensure the best possible outcome for your treatment and care.