Are there any side effects or contraindications?
Shockwave Therapy should not be used if there is a circulation or nerve disorder, infection, bone tumor, or a metabolic bone condition. Shockwave Therapy should also not be used if there are any open wounds or tumors or if the patient is pregnant. Patients who are on blood-thinning medications or who have severe circulatory disorders may also not be eligible for treatment.
Does Shockwave Therapy Hurt?
Previous generations of Shockwave Therapy machines caused considerable pain that a local anesthetic was required. The Shockwave technology Ace Physio utilizes does not generally cause any significant discomfort and there is NO local anesthetic required. Many patients describe their treatment as “mild sensation” to “moderately uncomfortable” but few report any significant or lasting pain.
After the treatment, patients may experience temporary soreness, tenderness or swelling for a few days following the procedure. Upon completion of your treatment you can return to most regular activities almost immediately, however we recommend avoiding any strenuous activities for 48 hours post treatment. Occasionally, pain or discomfort may persist for a few days following treatment but no serious complications or side effects have been reported.
What to do/what not to do before and after Shockwave Therapy
- Please do not take anti-inflammatories or administer topical anti-inflammatories prior to the Shockwave treatment.
- If you have had a cortisone injection you will need to wait 6 post injection prior to commencing Shockwave Therapy
How many treatments?
Many cases only require 4-5 treatments once every week. Some chronic conditions may require between 8 to 10 treatments once per week. After the treatment is finished the injured area continues to heal for 6 to 18 weeks.
