Radial Shockwave Therapy in Des Moines
What is Radial Shockwave Therapy?
Radial Shockwave Therapy is an FDA-cleared technology proven to increase the rate of healing for soft tissue tendinopathy. It is an advanced, non-invasive, and highly effective treatment method that enhances blood circulation and accelerates the healing process, causing damaged tissue to gradually regenerate.
What conditions can be treated with RSWT?
Conditions that may be treated with RSWT include:
☑ Plantar fasciitis
☑ Achilles tendinitis
☑ Shin splints
☑ Foot ulcers and more
How does RSWT work?
When you experience chronic pain, your body no longer recognizes that there is an injury in that area. As a result, it shuts down the healing process, and you feel no relief.
The ballistic sound waves of the EnPuls penetrate deep through your soft tissue, causing microtrauma or a new inflammatory condition in the treated area. Once this occurs, it triggers your body’s natural healing response again.
The energy emitted also causes the cells in the soft tissue to release certain biochemicals that intensify the body’s natural healing process. These biochemicals allow for the development of new microscopic blood vessels in the soft tissue.
What do studies show?
There have been extensive studies done on Radial Shockwave Therapy over the past 20 years. These studies show between a 72% and 80% success rate.
How is RSWT performed?
The system is a machine with an applicator that looks like an ultrasound.
It is administered once a week for a series of four to five treatments. Each treatment takes approximately five minutes, depending on the size and number of areas treated.
All treatments are performed by experienced professionals. Dr. LaFontant applies the applicator to the area and administers the ballistic waves by moving over the affected area in a very slow, circular motion.
During 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 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 there is with surgery.
There is no need for anesthesia to be administered during 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 feel results gradually after each treatment.
Why choose RSWT instead of physical therapy?
Physical therapy is typically two to three times a week for six weeks, and you are usually at the facility for no less than an hour. More importantly, there is usually a copay required for every visit, which could be $40 or more. Over a six-week period or 15 visits, this can add up to $600 in out-of-pocket copays.
RSWT treatments are only once a week and take about five minutes each. This is a highly effective modality that is faster than physical therapy, and the cost of RSWT treatments is usually less than the total of your physical therapy copays.
If you want fast results in less time and would like to save money, RSWT treatment may be a better choice.
What are the possible side effects?
There have been very few side effects reported. In rare cases, skin bruising may occur. Patients may also feel soreness in the area for a day or two afterward, similar to a strenuous workout.
Will I be in pain afterward?
A day or two after treatment, you may feel slight discomfort, like a bruise, but that is normal and may be a sign the treatment is working.
Is RSWT covered by insurance?
No. RSWT is not covered by insurance plans, but ask Dr. LaFontant how the treatment can be made affordable for you.
What should I remember after RSWT treatment?
When you experience chronic, long-term pain, the body no longer recognizes it as a problem and stops the natural healing process. When applied, the EnPuls uses ballistic sound waves to create microtrauma or an inflammatory state in the affected tissue. This triggers the body’s natural healing response again.
The increase in circulation to the area during treatment also contributes to the healing process. The more blood flow to tissue, the faster it can heal.
Below are some points to remember. You do not want to do anything that will take away the inflammation because that can counteract the treatment and make it less effective.
- No anti-inflammatory medications one day prior to treatment or for four days after treatment
- If you have pain, Tylenol is recommended
- Do not apply ice or cold compresses to the treated area
- Try not to overexert the treated area with excessive exercise
Please contact us at (515) 223-5219 if you have any questions.