Say Goodbye to Shoulder Pain: How Shockwave Therapy Can Help

Shoulder pain is a common ailment that can significantly impact daily activities and overall quality of life. Our chiropractor at Ambleside Chiropractor in West Vancouver sees a wide variety of shoulder injuries on a weekly basis. Certain patient demographics and common types of activities seem to be the common denominator. Aging and increased wear and tear through repetitive use of the same motions tend to be a major factor.  Acute traumatic injuries are the other. The shoulder joint is one of the most mobile joints in the body, allowing for a wide range of motion. However, this mobility also makes it susceptible to various injuries and conditions.

Common causes of shoulder pain include rotator cuff injuries, tendinitis, bursitis, impingement, and arthritis. These conditions can arise from acute injuries, repetitive motions, or degenerative changes associated with aging. Usually, improper and repetitive motions are the precursor to shoulder injuries.  These can range from improper lifting techniques in the gym, wrong biomechanical alignment and movement in sports like golf, tennis, pickleball, and even throwing a ball. Symptoms often manifest as pain, stiffness, swelling, or a limited range of motion, making it difficult to perform tasks such as lifting objects or reaching overhead.

In addition to physical discomfort, shoulder pain can lead to emotional distress and frustration. Individuals may experience difficulty sleeping due to pain or find themselves avoiding activities they once enjoyed. Recognizing the symptoms early and understanding the underlying causes is crucial for effective treatment.

A thorough assessment by a healthcare professional can help identify the specific issue and guide appropriate interventions.  Our chiropractor in West Vancouver will first examine your shoulder, go through a variety of orthopedic tests, and review any imaging if available to come up with a working diagnosis of the cause of your shoulder pain.  If your shoulder injury falls within the scope of non-invasive musculoskeletal care, you might be a candidate for Shockwave Therapy for the shoulder right away.

Key Takeaways

• Shockwave therapy can help alleviate shoulder pain (chronic and acute)
• Understanding the causes and symptoms of shoulder pain is important for effective treatment
• Shockwave therapy offers benefits such as pain relief, strength, and improved mobility
• The therapy works by delivering high-energy acoustic waves to the affected area
• Shockwave therapy is a beneficial non-invasive option for those who have not found relief with other treatments

The Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Shoulder Pain
Shockwave therapy has emerged as a promising non-invasive treatment option for individuals suffering from chronic and acute shoulder pain, either from acute trauma or micro injuries. One of the primary benefits of this therapy is its ability to promote healing in damaged tissues. By delivering acoustic waves to the affected area, shockwave therapy stimulates blood flow and encourages the regeneration of cells, which can lead to reduced pain, improved function natural healing of the injured tissues in question. It helps the body repair itself quickly and naturally.

This regenerative effect is particularly beneficial for conditions like tendinitis and rotator cuff injuries, where tissue repair is essential for recovery. Another significant advantage of shockwave therapy is its minimal side effects compared to more invasive treatments such as barbotage, surgery, or corticosteroid injections. Patients often report only mild discomfort during the procedure, and there is typically no downtime required afterward. There might be a mild soreness 24 hours after the shockwave therapy treatment, but this resolves on its own afterwards with no other side effects.  Some patients report a redness and slight inflammation on the treatment side, but that also self-resolves within 24 hours.

This allows individuals to resume their daily activities almost immediately, making it an attractive option for those looking to alleviate shoulder pain without extensive recovery periods. Furthermore, shockwave therapy can be used in conjunction with other treatments, enhancing overall effectiveness. 

How Shockwave Therapy Works to Alleviate Shoulder Pain
The mechanism behind shockwave therapy involves the application of high-energy acoustic waves to the affected area. These waves penetrate the skin and stimulate the underlying tissues, promoting a biological response that aids in healing. When shockwaves are directed at the shoulder, they create microtraumas in the tissue, which trigger the body’s natural healing response.   

This includes increased blood circulation, which delivers essential nutrients and oxygen to the injured area, facilitating recovery. Additionally, shockwave therapy has been shown to reduce pain by interrupting the transmission of pain signals to the brain. The acoustic waves can help desensitize nerve endings in the affected area, leading to a decrease in perceived pain levels.

For those suffering from calcific tendonitis, Shockwave Therapy is a great non-invasive alternative to barbotage.  Calcium deposition is a byproduct of a previous injury to the tendon and surrounding tissue.  Traditionally, barbotage was the only way to break up calcium deposits embedded in tendons.  This is an invasive and painful procedure.  However, recently, studies have shown that Shockwave Therapy can break up the calcium deposits into smaller sizes, which is then invariably reabsorbed back into the bloodstream, thereby removing the calcium deposits painlessly.

This multi-action, breaking up of calcium deposits, promoting healing while simultaneously alleviating pain, makes shockwave therapy a compelling option for those suffering from chronic shoulder conditions.  All done in your health care provider’s office as a non-invasive procedure without pain or permanent side effects.  Each treatment usually only lasts about 20-30 minutes.

Who Can Benefit from Shockwave Therapy for Shoulder Pain

Shockwave therapy is suitable for a wide range of individuals experiencing shoulder pain, particularly those with chronic conditions that have not responded well to traditional treatments. Athletes and active individuals who have sustained injuries from repetitive motions or acute trauma may find relief through this therapy. Conditions such as tendonitis, bursitis, rotator cuff tears, calcific tendinitis, and shoulder impingement syndrome are often effectively treated with shockwave therapy.

Moreover, older adults who may be dealing with age-related degenerative changes in their shoulders can also benefit from this treatment. As the body ages, tissues may become less resilient and more prone to injury. Shockwave therapy offers a non-invasive alternative that can help improve mobility and reduce pain without the need for surgical intervention.

However, it is essential for individuals to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if they are suitable candidates for this therapy based on their specific medical history and condition.  Make sure that your healthcare provider takes the time to do a proper exam to determine if you are a good candidate for Shockwave Therapy before you start. 

Comparing Shockwave Therapy to Other Treatment Options for Shoulder Pain
When considering treatment options for shoulder pain, it is essential to compare shockwave therapy with other available modalities. Traditional treatments often include physical therapy, medication, corticosteroid injections, barbotage, and surgery. While physical therapy can be effective in improving strength and flexibility, it may not provide immediate relief for acute pain.

Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain but may come with side effects if used long-term. Corticosteroid injections can offer quick relief but are not without risks, including potential damage to surrounding tissues with repeated use. Remember that managing pain is very different from removing the cause of the shoulder pain.  At best, it is a temporary solution, but with long-term side effects if prolonged.

Barbotage involves Surgery is typically considered a last resort due to its invasive nature and longer recovery times. Barbotage is a medical technique used to address calcium deposits in tendons, particularly in the rotator cuff tendons and muscles of the shoulder. This procedure is generally conducted with the assistance of ultrasound technology to ensure accurate needle placement. The process involves the use of a needle and lavage, or washing, to break down and remove calcium deposits.  It is invasive and can be painful. Like most surgical procedures, there is the risk of infection, post-operative pain, tendon rupture, and allergic reaction to anaesthesia.

In contrast, shockwave therapy stands out as a non-invasive option that not only addresses pain but also promotes healing at the tissue level, and the ability to break down small pieces of embedded calcium deposits in the tendon and muscle tissue that is the cause of the pain and weakness. This makes it an appealing choice for many patients seeking effective relief without the drawbacks associated with more invasive treatments, as noted above.  It also does not have any long-term side effects, which is common with medications.  The important fact here is that Shockwave Therapy activates the body’s own natural healing process with fast results.

What to Expect During a Shockwave Therapy Session for Shoulder Pain
A typical shockwave therapy session for shoulder pain begins with an initial consultation where the healthcare provider assesses the patient’s condition and discusses treatment goals. Once deemed appropriate for therapy, the patient will lie comfortably while a gel is applied to the shoulder area to facilitate the transmission of shockwaves. Your doctor or health care practitioner then uses a handheld device to deliver controlled acoustic waves to the affected tissues.

Patients may experience a sensation similar to a mild tapping or pressure during the treatment, which usually lasts between 15 to 30 minutes. Most individuals tolerate the procedure well and report only minor discomfort. After the session, patients are often advised to avoid strenuous activities for a short period, but can generally return to their normal routines immediately.

The number of sessions required varies depending on the severity of the condition, but typically ranges from three to six treatments spaced over several weeks.  Usually, it is recommended that a space of between 7-10 days is allowed before the next treatment session.  This regimen allows the body to heal and recover so that the next treatment session builds upon the recovery of the last session.  Our Chiropractor in West Vancouver provides Shockwave Therapy treatments that will almost always follow this standardized protocol, and the results have been a high success rate of returning the patient back to his or her daily activities and sport within a short period of time.

The Success Rate of Shockwave Therapy for Shoulder Pain
Research indicates that shockwave therapy can be highly effective in treating various shoulder conditions. Studies have shown that many patients experience significant reductions in pain levels and improvements in function following treatment. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery found that over 70% of patients with chronic rotator cuff tendinopathy reported substantial improvement after undergoing shockwave therapy.

The success rate can vary based on factors such as the specific condition being treated, the duration of symptoms prior to treatment, and individual patient responses. However, many practitioners note that patients who adhere to recommended treatment protocols and follow up between treatment sessions often achieve favorable outcomes. This growing body of evidence supports shockwave therapy as a viable option for those seeking relief from shoulder pain. 

Tips for Preventing Shoulder Pain After Shockwave Therapy
While shockwave therapy can provide significant relief from shoulder pain, it is essential for patients to take proactive steps to prevent recurrence after treatment. One effective strategy is engaging in regular stretching and strengthening exercises tailored to improve shoulder stability and flexibility. Our West Vancouver Chiropractor can design a personalized exercise program that addresses specific weaknesses or imbalances contributing to shoulder issues.

Additionally, maintaining proper posture during daily activities can help reduce strain on the shoulder joint. Ergonomic adjustments at workstations or during recreational activities can also play a crucial role in preventing future injuries. Finally, being mindful of activity levels and avoiding repetitive overhead motions without adequate rest can further protect against shoulder pain re-emerging after successful shockwave therapy treatment.

Other considerations for preventative care and maintenance of shoulder pain should also include regular strength training, stretching, and even Yoga.  All these activities have been shown to heal and prevent future shoulder injuries if done consistently. These exercises have the added benefit of also strengthening the body and promoting proper postures and biomechanical movement, thus preventing undesired wear and tear on the shoulder joint, tissues, muscles, and associated tendons.  By adopting these preventive measures, individuals can enhance their long-term outcomes and enjoy a more active lifestyle free from shoulder discomfort.