Shoulder pain keeping you from enjoying your favourite activities?
Whether it’s hiking the local trails or just lifting groceries, shoulder impingement syndrome (SIS) can make even simple movements unbearable.
But there’s good news: shockwave therapy is a cutting-edge treatment available right here at North Vancouver Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic, and it’s helping patients find lasting relief.
In this article, we’ll dive into how shockwave therapy works, why it’s a game-changer for shoulder impingement, and how you can benefit from this non-invasive treatment.
What is Shoulder Impingement Syndrome?
Shoulder impingement occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff are compressed within the subacromial space, causing pain and inflammation. This condition can result from repetitive overhead movements, poor posture, or injuries. The symptoms include difficulty lifting the arm, pain when reaching, and shoulder weakness.
Without proper treatment, shoulder impingement can lead to more severe issues like rotator cuff tears. That’s why early intervention is crucial!
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy, or extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), uses acoustic waves to deliver controlled pulses to the affected area.
These pulses stimulate the body’s natural healing process, enhancing blood circulation, breaking down scar tissue, and reducing inflammation. For shoulder impingement, this helps alleviate pain and promotes tendon healing.
How Does Shockwave Therapy Help Shoulder Impingement?
Here’s how shockwave therapy targets the root causes of shoulder impingement:
- Reduces Pain: Shockwaves stimulate the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals, offering immediate pain reduction after a few sessions.
- Promotes Tissue Repair: The acoustic waves enhance collagen production and tissue regeneration, which helps heal damaged tendons and muscles.
- Breaks Down Calcium Deposits: In some cases of impingement, calcifications form in the shoulder tendons, worsening the pain. Shockwave therapy effectively breaks down these calcium deposits.
- Improves Range of Motion: By decreasing inflammation and promoting healing, patients experience a greater range of motion in their shoulder joint after treatment.
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Come visit the team at North Vancouver Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic for same-day physio and shockwave appointments.
What to Expect During Shockwave Therapy
During your session, a handheld device is placed over the affected shoulder, delivering targeted shockwaves. You might feel slight discomfort during the treatment, but it’s generally well-tolerated by most patients.
Most people need between 3 to 6 sessions to see significant improvement, depending on the severity of their condition. Results can often be felt after just a few treatments, with continued improvement in the weeks following.
Who Can Benefit from Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy is ideal for patients who:
- Have been diagnosed with shoulder impingement.
- Experience chronic shoulder pain that hasn’t responded well to other treatments like manual therapy, exercises, or injections.
- Want a non-invasive treatment option that doesn’t require medication or surgery.
It’s important to consult with one of our physiotherapists to determine if shockwave therapy is the right fit for you.
The Benefits of Choosing Shockwave Therapy for Shoulder Impingement
- Non-Invasive: Unlike surgery, shockwave therapy doesn’t involve any incisions or downtime. You can return to your normal activities shortly after each session.
- No Need for Medication: Many patients prefer avoiding pain medications or injections. Shockwave therapy provides a natural alternative for pain relief and healing.
- Quick and Convenient: Treatments are fast, lasting just minutes per session, with noticeable results after a few weeks.
Why Choose North Vancouver Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic?
At North Vancouver Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic, our experienced practitioners are committed to offering the most advanced and effective treatments for shoulder conditions. With our experience in treating shoulder impingement syndrome, we combine shockwave therapy with other tailored physiotherapy interventions like manual therapy and strengthening exercises to optimize your recovery.
Ready to Try Shockwave Therapy?
If shoulder pain is holding you back, don’t wait for it to worsen. Shockwave therapy can help you regain your mobility and get back to doing the things you love, pain-free.
Contact us today to book an appointment and see if shockwave therapy is right for you. Visit our website at northvancouverphysio.ca or call us to schedule your consultation.
References
- ElGendy MH, Mazen MM, Saied AM, ElMeligie MM, Aneis Y. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy vs. corticosteroid local injection in shoulder impingement syndrome: A three-arm randomized controlled trial. Am J Phys Med Rehabil. 2023;102(7):533-540. doi:10.1097/PHM.0000000000002101.
- Yang F, Li X, Wang J, et al. Efficacy of different analgesic strategies combined with conventional physiotherapy program for treating chronic shoulder pain: A systematic review and network meta-analysis. J Orthop Surg Res. 2024;19:544. doi:10.1186/s13018-024-05037-8.
- Turhan B, Doğan H, Maden C. Comparison of the post-treatment outcomes of a conservative physiotherapy protocol for subacromial impingement syndrome in terms of acromion morphology. Eur J Ther. 2024;30(3):313-321. doi:10.58600/eurjther1910.