Shockwave Therapy for Elbow Pain: Everything You Need to Know

Whether resulting from overuse, injury, or a medical condition, debilitating elbow pain can disrupt your daily activities and quality of life. 

Understanding the Causes of Elbow Pain 

To create an effective, customized plan to treat elbow pain it’s essential to first identify and understand its underlying origin. Elbow pain is created by a variety of factors including repetitive motions, traumatic injuries, or medical conditions. The repetitive motions from activities such as typing and playing tennis or golf may strain the tendons and muscles surrounding the elbow joint. Strains can diminish mobility, lead to intense and debilitating discomfort, and cause conditions like tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow.  Fractures, dislocations, and other traumatic injuries can also result in persistent elbow pain.   Inflammation and discomfort in the joint can be caused by medical conditions including tendinitis and arthritis. 

 What Is Shockwave Therapy? 

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive procedure that utilizes high-energy sound waves to stimulate the body’s natural healing response. Controlled shockwaves are applied to the affected area to promote increased blood flow, and pain relief. These sound waves are generated by a device that delivers acoustic pulses to the targeted area. The pulses then create microtrauma within the tissues that triggers the body’s healing mechanisms. The resulting increase in blood flow facilitates the delivery of essential nutrients and oxygen to the damaged tissues and accelerates the healing process.  

Originally developed to treat kidney stones, shockwave therapy has been effective in successfully addressing elbow pain and other musculoskeletal conditions. It also stimulates the production of collagen, a crucial protein for tissue repair.

 How Does Shockwave Therapy Work for Treating Elbow Pain? 

 A non-invasive alternative to surgical interventions, shockwave therapy targets the source of elbow pain and promotes healing from within. When shockwaves are applied to the affected area, they stimulate the release of biochemical substances that reduce inflammation and pain. This process leads to improved blood circulation and pain relief. 

During a shockwave therapy session, one of our skilled healthcare professionals will apply a light layer of gel to the skin. A handheld device will then deliver shockwaves through the gel, to the affected area.  

The treatment is generally well-tolerated, with minimal ensuing discomfort. The duration and frequency of sessions depends on the degree of one’s elbow pain, and one’s response to the therapy. For optimal results, patients typically undergo multiple sessions over the span of several weeks. Individual treatment plans are customized to best meet each patient’s needs. 

Benefits of Shockwave for Elbow Pain 

Shockwave therapy may benefit individuals suffering from elbow pain by providing pain relief, stimulating natural healing, and reducing inflammation.

This non-invasive, non-surgical treatment option means no incisions, no anesthesia, and no prolonged recovery time. Shockwave therapy is a low-risk and well-tolerated procedure. It has minimal side effects, the most common being mild discomfort and / or temporary redness at the treatment site. As the procedure is conveniently performed on an outpatient basis, recipients are able to return to their daily activities immediately after each session. 

Preparing for and Recovering from Shockwave Therapy 

Before undergoing shockwave therapy, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional specializing in this treatment modality. This provider will assess your condition, determine if you’re a suitable candidate for the procedure, and convey the necessary guidelines on preparing for shockwave therapy sessions. (Please note that certain medications and activities should be paused temporarily.) 

To ensure optimal recovery and maximize the benefits of the treatment, it’s important to follow the post-procedure instructions provided by your healthcare professional. These instructions may be to avoid strenuous activities, apply ice or heat to the treated area, and / or perform specific exercises to support the healing process.  

Summary  

Shockwave therapy is a promising medical intervention for individuals experiencing elbow pain: this safe and non-invasive treatment option may promote natural healing, minimize pain, and reduce inflammation related to tendinitis, tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, and a multitude of other musculoskeletal conditions. A non-surgical alternative, it’s helped many people improve and reconnect with their quality of life.  

Schedule a shockwave therapy consultation at The Orthohealing Center today. One of our specialists will assess your condition, determine if the procedure is appropriate for you, create a personalized treatment plan, and guide you through the process.