Focused Shockwave Aftercare Guide
For further information and reference:
https://fullcircleorthopedics.com/services/shockwave-therapy/
How It works:
- Sound (Acoustic) waves compress/release tissue with each “tick” you hear. In layman’s terms, this signals your body to increase “healing” cells and proteins (called growth factors) to the area. It also promotes increased blood flow and creation of new small blood vessels to “feed” the area. Lastly, it can “move out” damaged tissue cells and fluid making way for “fresh” cells and tissue. In essence, the goal is to “turn over” unhealthy tissue to healthy tissue and regenerate in areas of injury or damage.
Symptoms:
- May have decreased pain the day of and the day after treatment, however, mild soreness, stiffness, or achiness may occur for the subsequent 2-3 days.
- It can take 4-7 days for the “full effect” of the treatment.
- Mild “shooting pain” while the healing is taking place, especially at night.
AVOID:
- Anti-inflammatories (known as NSAIDs) topically and orally for 48 hours following the treatment. This includes Ibuprofen (Advil), Naproxen (Aleve), Celecoxib (Celebrex), Meloxicam (Mobic), Arnica, CBD, etc.
- Use of ice is discouraged for the first 48 hours
Use:
- Over the counter analgesics (Tylenol ES 1-2 tabs 3x/day, lidocaine topically, magnesium cream)
- Increase water intake
- Healthy Eating rich in protein, fruit, vegetables. Low in processed sugar and alcohol
- 8-9 hours sleep per night for the first two nights
Activity:
- There is no “down time” after shockwave treatment. However, it is advised to “take it easy” on the limb treated for the first 48 hours after the first 2-3 treatments. That way, we can see how you respond without too many variables in the mix
- You may exercise other areas of your body that did not receive treatment or exercise the treatment area with lighter exercises than normal. This can be discussed with a provider more fully on an individual basis.