The Science:
Focused Shockwave Therapy (FSWT) penetrates deep into the tissue and provides all of its power at the designated depth. Focused shockwaves are generated electromagnetically through a cylindrical coil creating opposing magnetic fields when current is applied. This causes a submerged membrane to move and generate a pressure wave in the surrounding fluid medium. These propagate through the medium without any loss in energy with a small focal zone. At the site of actual wave generation the amount of energy dispersed is minimal. This limits damage at the skin and to underlying soft tissues.
The Benefits
FSWT uses opposing magnetic fields and the energy is sent to the injured area in a condensed, deep manner. The depth and focus is adjusted by altering the energy output of the machine or by changing the applicator head. The energy can reach up to 12cm in depth depending on the applicator head used.
The benefits of FSWT are :
- Increases blood and lymph flow, which in turn promotes new tissue generation and faster rehabilitation
- Release of the Substance P Neurotransmitter which is responsible for pain modulation (decreases pain).
- Vasodilation and increased cell wall permeability (blood flow)
- Increased nitric oxide in the tissues (which increases cell metabolism, new vessel production, anti-inflammatory effect) and stimulates growth factors
- Non invasive
At Figa Chiropractic, we use FSWT to successfully treat acute or chronic musculoskeletal pain such as:
- Foot and ankle - plantar fasciitis, sprains, heel pain
- Lower extremity - knee, calf, groin pain, patellar tendinitis
- Upper extremity - tennis and golfer elbow, wrist or carpal tendinitis
- Back and chest - chronic back pain
- Shoulder - frozen shoulder, biceps tendinitis, micro tears
- Neck - tension headaches, pain due to postural issues
- Myofascial trigger points
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