What is Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT)?
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) has emerged as a noninvasive method for the treatment of various chronic musculoskeletal diseases. ESWT, which is particularly promising for patients with conditions such as chronic tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, and shoulder arthritis, helps heal painful areas by using high-energy shock waves.
Working Principle of ESWT Treatment
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy works on the principle of focusing high-energy sound waves on the area that needs to be treated. These shock waves are applied to the patient through a device controlled from outside the body and penetrate the targeted tissues. In this way, microcirculation is increased and thus the formation of new blood vessels is supported. It contributes to reducing pain and improving function by accelerating the healing process.
For Which Situations Is ESWT Treatment Suitable?
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy can be effective in treating soft tissue disorders such as tendinitis in general, as well as certain bone disorders. Conditions such as epicondylitis (tennis elbow or golfer's elbow), acute and chronic muscle pain, shoulder tendinitis and Achilles tendinitis can respond positively to this treatment.
What is the ESWT Treatment Process?
ESWT treatment is generally an outpatient procedure and does not require general anesthesia. The treatment process begins after examining the targeted area with imaging methods such as ultrasonography or x-ray. The ESWT device is accurately directed to the area to be treated and shock waves are applied. Each treatment session takes approximately 15-20 minutes, and patients often undergo a treatment plan that requires more than one session.
What are the Advantages of ESWT Treatment?
One of the biggest advantages of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy is that it aims to eliminate pain and functional limitations without the need for surgery and without long recovery periods. It is a non-invasive treatment method, so it carries no risk of infection and generally does not cause side effects. Patients have the advantage of being able to return to their daily activities almost immediately after treatment.
Deciding on an ESWT Treatment Course
A holistic approach should be taken for patients who are considered for Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy, providing both a comprehensive evaluation before treatment and sustainable recovery planning after treatment. Treatment guidance is carried out by physiotherapists and doctors who are experts in their fields, and a special treatment plan is prepared for each patient. The treatment decision is made taking into account the patient's health condition and the potential benefits of the treatment, and the patient is informed at every step.
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