The transformative power of electrohydraulic shockwave therapy

In the realm of physical therapy, like in chiropractic, the quest for innovative and effective treatments for chronic pain is relentless.

Chronic pain, a complex and multifaceted condition, affects a significant portion of the population, presenting a substantial burden to individuals and the healthcare system alike. Among the myriad of therapeutic modalities, electrohydraulic shockwave therapy (ESWT) has emerged as a groundbreaking tool, offering new hope to those suffering from this debilitating condition. This article delves into the utility of ESWT in physical therapy for chronic pain management, enriched with learning points and insights from esteemed professionals in the field. 

Understanding chronic pain and its impact

Chronic pain, defined as pain that persists for three months or longer, is a pervasive issue; the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates approximately one in 5 adults suffer from chronic pain, contributing to significant healthcare costs, estimated in the billions of dollars annually. The implications of chronic pain extend beyond the financial, encompassing decreased productivity, reduced quality of life and increased susceptibility to mental health disorders.¹ 

Physical therapists’ role in treating chronic pain is diverse. A physical therapist’s goal is to improve function and alleviate discomfort through a holistic approach, integrating physical modalities such as shockwave therapy, exercise, manual therapy and patient education.  

Electrohydraulic shockwave therapy: A game changer

Electrohydraulic shockwave therapy, a noninvasive treatment modality, utilizes shock waves to promote tissue healing and pain relief. The therapy is vastly different from its radial wave counterpart and noted for its effectiveness in treating conditions such as tendinopathies, plantar fasciitis, muscle pain and calcific shoulder tendinitis. ESWT operates by generating shockwaves through an electrohydraulic mechanism, which are then transmitted to the affected area, stimulating cellular repair and regeneration processes. Most devices are solely focused in their technology, but one electrohydraulic device has an applicator that reaches wide and deep with a flexible membrane, providing improved patient comfort and accelerated outcomes. 

Learning points

• ESWT is noninvasive and focuses on promoting natural healing processes. 
• It is different from radial shockwave devices as radial devices produce pressure waves, not true shockwaves. 
• A certain device can treat to greater depths more comfortably. 
• It is applicable for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. 
• The therapy can lead to significant improvements in pain, function and quality of life. 

The significance of ESWT in the field of chronic pain management is truly a game changer. In my 30-plus years of practice, I have never come across a modality that has moved the needle for my chronic pain patients as much as this true shockwave device with the patented parabolic applicator. It has literally helped patients accelerate their healing beyond anything I have seen before.  

Electrohydraulic shockwave therapy at a glance

Mechanism: Uses  to generate actual shockwaves to stimulate tissue healing. 

Applications: Effective for tendinopathies, muscle pain and more. 

Benefits to patients: Accelerates healing, reduces pain and improves function. 

Benefit to practitioners: Decreases physical stress on providers, improving quality and length of work life. 

Patient feedback: Highly positive, with many experiencing marked improvements. 

The economic and societal costs of chronic pain

Chronic pain not only affects the individual but also imposes a significant economic burden on the healthcare system. The annual cost associated with chronic pain treatment and lost productivity is staggering, running into the hundreds of billions. This highlights the need for effective, efficient and cost-effective treatment modalities, such as ESWT, which can alleviate pain, reduce dependency on pharmacological interventions and potentially decrease overall healthcare expenditures. 

A significant advancement in the treatment of chronic pain

Its noninvasive nature, coupled with the potential for substantial improvements in patient outcomes, positions ESWT as a valuable tool in the physical therapist’s or doctor of chiropractic’s arsenal. As healthcare professionals continue to seek better solutions for chronic pain management, ESWT offers a promising avenue for enhancing patient care and addressing the broader impacts of chronic pain on individuals and society. 

Final thoughts

Chronic pain is a significant health issue, affecting millions and costing the healthcare system billions annually. ESWT offers a noninvasive, effective treatment option for chronic pain, with broad applications in musculoskeletal conditions. Benefits are seen by both patients and providers. 

STACEY ROBERTS, PT, RN, MSN, has more than 30 years of experience helping patients achieve their health goals as a musculoskeletal specialist, pelvic and sexual health PT and functional medicine specialist. She is the author of The Pain Free Formula: A Holistic Approach to Finally Getting Rid of Joint Pain Without Surgery, Drugs, or Injections. Contact Roberts at info@newyouhealthandwellness.com to receive the first two complimentary chapters.

Reference 

1. Nahin RL, et al. Estimated Rates of Incident and Persistent Chronic Pain Among US Adults, 2019-2020. JAMA Netw Open. 2023;6(5):e2313563. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37191961/. Accessed Feb. 8, 2024.