What is Radial Shockwave Therapy?
Radial Pulse Shockwave Therapy is an FDA cleared technology proven to increase the rate of healing for soft tissue tendinopathy by stimulating neovascularization . It is the most advanced non-invasive and highly effective treatment method that enhances blood circulation, accelerates the healing process causing damaged tissue to gradually regenerate and heal. Typical treatments are performed weekly for total of 3-5 treatments. Each treatment can last about 5-10 min.
What conditions can be treated with RSWT?
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How does RSWT work?
When you experience chronic pain, your body no longer recognizes that there is an injury to that area. Therefore, it shuts down the healing process and you feel no relief. The ballistic sound waves penetrate deep through your soft tissue, causing a microtrauma or new inflammatory condition to the treated area. Once this occurs, it then triggers your body's natural healing response once again. The energy emitted also causes the cells in the soft tissue to release certain bio-chemicals that intensify the body's natural healing process. These bio-chemicals allow for the building of an array of new microscopic blood vessels in the soft tissue. This treatment is highly effective for conditions such as Achilles tendonitis, Plantar Fasciitis, and other tendon and soft tissue disorders in the foot.
What do studies show?
There have been extensive studies done on Low Energy Shockwave Therapy over the past 20 years. These studies show between a 72% – 84% success rate.
How is RSWT performed?
The system is a small machine with a heavy applicator that looks like an ultrasound. It is administered once a week for a series of 3 to 5 treatments. Each treatment takes approximately 5-10 minutes depending on the size and number of areas treated.
Dr. Bhakta and/or his assistants will place the applicator to the area with mild pressure and administers the ballistic waves by moving over the affected area in a very slow, circular motion. During the treatment there may be some minor discomfort. Painful areas are helpful in isolating the truly injured areas.
Why consider Radial Shockwave Therapy?
RSWT has a proven success rate that is equal to or greater than that of traditional treatment methods, including surgery, without the risks, complications, and lengthy recovery periods. There are no incisions and no risk of infection, or scar tissue, like surgery.
There is no need for anesthesia to be administered during the treatment, as opposed to high-energy shockwave therapy. Patients treated with RSWT may be active immediately and resume their normal routine the same day. Many patients find a significant and immediate reduction in their pain. Some patients will feel results gradually after each treatment.
Why RSWT instead of Physical Therapy?
Physical therapy is 2 to 3 times a week, for 6 weeks(12-18 visits on average) and you are at the facility for no less than an hour. More importantly, there is usually a co-pay required for every visit which could be $30 to $80 and include yearly deductibles or co-insurances. Over a six week period, this can certainly add up.
The RWST treatments are only once a week for 5-10 minutes each and pricing is between $75-$100 for each treatment(4-5 treatments on average). This is a highly effective modality and comparable if not better than Physical therapy, and the cost of the RSWT treatments are LESS than the total of your PT co-pays. If you want fast results in less time, and would like to save money, the RSWT treatment may be a better choice for you.
What are the possible side effects?
There have been very few side effects reported. In rare cases, skin bruising may occur, and patients may feel soreness to the area for a day or two afterward, similar to a strenuous workout.
Will I be in pain afterward?
A day or two after the treatment you may feel a slight discomfort similar to a bruise, but that is normal and is a sign the treatment is working.
Is it covered by my Insurance?
No. RSWT is not covered by insurance plans, but ask our staff how they can make it affordable for you($75-$100 per treatment and usually require 1 treatment each week for 4-5 times).
7430 HERITAGE VILLAGE PLAZA, SUITE 101, GAINESVILLE, VA 20155
