Despite its long history of success as a treatment for soft tissue injuries and widespread use by healthcare professionals, Shockwave Therapy is often misunderstood. Many people may have never heard of this treatment or have limited knowledge about it. As a result, they may be more susceptible to believing common myths and misconceptions, making them hesitant towards exploring its potential benefits.
In this blog post, we aim to dispel these myths by providing accurate information that will help you make an informed decision when considering Shockwave Therapy.
MYTH #1: SHOCKWAVE THERAPY IS INVASIVE AND PAINFUL
When it comes to medical treatments, the fear of pain often deters people from exploring potentially beneficial options. Shockwave Therapy is no exception, as it’s commonly misunderstood to be a painful and invasive procedure.
Fact: Shockwave Therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive procedure; it does not require surgery, incisions, or the insertion of any instruments into the body. It’s performed externally using a handheld device that gently caresses the skin and delivers acoustic waves to the affected area. Anesthesia is not necessary, as there is no cutting or stitching involved.
During application, the shockwaves can cause some discomfort depending on the location and severity of the injury, but are generally well-tolerated and only temporary. Patients often describe the sensation as a mild to moderate tingling or snapping at the treatment site.
MYTH #2: SHOCKWAVE THERAPY IS TIME-CONSUMING
Some people falsely believe that the Shockwave treatment demands a significant amount of time.
Fact: Unlike some medical treatments that require multiple lengthy sessions, Shockwave Therapy often involves a relatively short treatment plan. The typical session lasts between 15 to 20 minutes.
It’s essential to note that the number of sessions needed may vary depending on your specific condition and its severity. While multiple sessions may be necessary for some people, each session is relatively short. In most cases, patients can receive treatment and return to their daily activities on the same day.
