Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy, or extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that sends high-energy acoustic waves into tissue to stimulate healing in long-lasting tendon and soft tissue injuries. We offer it at our clinic in Chubbuck, Idaho, for patients from Chubbuck and Pocatello, under the guidance of Matt Krammen, PT, DPT, Cert DN, an orthopedic physical therapist.
What acoustic wave therapy does
The device delivers mechanical energy into the tissue being treated. That energy may help increase circulation, change the tone of tight tissue so your therapist's other techniques work better, and break up scar tissue and adhesions that can press on nerves and keep pain going.
Radial shockwave therapy and focused shockwave are the two types of device, and your therapist tells you which is used at your visit. It is aimed at pain that has lasted and has not eased with other care.
Shockwave for Achilles tendinitis, tennis elbow and plantar fasciitis
Typical uses are shockwave for plantar fasciitis, shockwave for tennis elbow and other tendon and soft tissue problems:
How a series of treatments goes
Most people finish a short course.
Discomfort, but brief
The mechanical stress may cause some discomfort while it is on, and some soreness may follow. Energy is adjusted for the depth we need.
Most relief by session two or three
Most patients report some relief after the first treatment, and the effect is usually strongest after the second or third.
3 to 6 visits for most, up to 10
Four to ten days between treatments gives the body time to recover. If ten are needed, a few weeks off is advised before treating the same area again.
Keep moving
Normal activity and exercise can continue within the limits your therapist sets.
Why shockwave goes with exercise
Exercise drives metabolism and the rebuilding of tissue, so shockwave works as part of a plan with strengthening and movement work. Deep tissue laser therapy is a different treatment that we may choose instead or alongside, and IASTM is another way to work on tendon and scar tissue.
Who should not have shockwave
Tell your therapist if any of these apply:
- You take blood thinners or have a clotting disorder
- You are pregnant
- The area is over a tumor
- The area is over an open growth plate in a child or teen
Cost and coverage
Call us and we will explain what your plan covers for shockwave therapy before you begin.
Idaho allows direct access to physical therapy, so you do not need a referral from a doctor to begin. Some insurance plans, and Medicare typically, may still require one. If you are unsure, call us and we will check your plan.
We accept most insurance plans and verify your benefits before you arrive. Auto injury liens, Medpay and workers compensation are accepted, and there is a self-pay option. Call the office to confirm your plan.
Shockwave therapy in Chubbuck, Idaho
Call or request an appointment at our Chubbuck clinic. We see patients from Chubbuck, Pocatello and the surrounding area.
We see patients at our Chubbuck clinic from Chubbuck and Pocatello, Idaho.