Shockwave Therapy

What is Shockwave Therapy?

Extra Corporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), also commonly referred to as Acoustic Compression Therapy (ACT), is focused sound waves that are non-invasive and effective to stimulate healing and promote tissue regeneration (stem cell proliferation) and relieve pain.

Shockwave Therapy has been successful treating:

Plantar Fasciitis

Duke Guy was our first patient referred by a Podiatrist.

Shoulder Pain

Herniated Disc

Knee Pain

Foot Arch Pain

Testimonials

“

Living with chronic pain for over four decades sometimes caused my life to be overshadowed by constant discomfort and limited mobility. It felt like an uphill battle that would never end. With the assistance of Dr. Brain, I was introduced to the ACT Treatments. From the very first consultation, I was met with compassion, empathy, and a genuine desire to help me regain control over my life. In the days following each ACT procedure, I noticed a gradual but significant reduction in pain. Today, several weeks after my ACT treatments, I can confidently say that it has been a life-changing experience.

Tracy A.
“

Parkhurst completed 6 ACT sessions on my back. Within 3 weeks I felt a decrease in pain. Absolutely amazing and won't go see anyone else!

Ashley H.
“

I have suffered with severe knee pain for several years. I am totally amazed at what the ACT has done for me.

Kevin W.
“

I had a total of eight treatments of ACT and I could tell halfway through that my foot pain wasn't as intense or achy the next day. I don't have to walk on tip-toes anymore because my foot pain has improved so much. Everyone at Parkhurst from front desk to clinical have been great and supportive.

Kimberlee R.
“

Care was great. Acoustic therapy was amazing with helping my body heal the injury I had.

Jack T.
“

I have been coming to Parkhurst to receive treatment for years. They have allowed me to compete on the track (when in high school) and on the court all the way to college level. This is an amazing place where you are taken care of in a way that makes it feel as though you matter. I would not be the athlete I am today without Parkhurst.

Clayton D.
“

I did six treatments of ACT. By the 3rd - 4th treatment I was noticing a significant difference in my lower back. The ACT was very effective. Seemed to target problem areas and do the job. Everyone here is phenomenal and life-changing! Dr. Brian has been so helpful on my journey to healing. They have done incredible work with my therapy and ACT sessions.

Jason E.
“

Everyone is so helpful and nice. Dr. Jeremy is great at getting rid of my migraines! After the 5th treatment, I had no pain!

Holly G.
“

I wish I knew of ACT before this time. Before treatments I couldn't be on my feet for more that three hours.

Duke G.
“

I have been a patient for more than 20 years and have never been disappointed!! Love all the staff and Brian and Karla are like family. ACT and all the special care from all the therapist staff have made all the difference. I'm back to my life and very grateful!

Jill H.
“

It has helped give me some relief of my sciatica. It has helped with the intensity and inflammation.

Kathy H.

What to Expect During your Treatment

  • A 20-minute appointment.
  • Most treatment plans start with 6 – 12 sessions for lasting improvement. Your individual plan is outlined in your free consultation with the doctor. You will start with one to two sessions per week. All plans vary by patient and condition.  
  • Stem cell proliferation can occur up to three months post-treatment. Often, however, change is very rapid once it begins!
  • Cellular Effects – shockwaves can activate certain cellular signaling pathways, lending to increased production of growth factors and cytokines as well as stem cell proliferation.

How it Works

Shockwave Therapy remodels tissue with focused sound waves

  • New Blood Vessel Formation – Nutrient blood flow is necessary to start and maintain the repair processes of damaged tissue. The application of acoustic waves creates capillary formations in tendon and bone.
  • Reversal of Chronic Inflammation – Mast cells are one of the key components of the inflammatory process. Their activity may be
    increased by using focused acoustic waves.
  • Stimulation of Collagen Production – The production of a significant amount of collagen is necessary for the repair processes of the
    musculoskeletal system. Focused sound waves accelerate procollagen synthesis.
  • Dissolution of Calcified Fibroblasts – Calcium build-up is most often the result of micro-tears or other trauma to a tendon.
    Acoustic waves break up the existing calcifications.
  • Dispersion of Pain Mediator “Substance P” – Substance P is a neurotransmitter that mediates pain information through the C-fibers. This neuropeptide is generally associated with intense, persistent and chronic pain.
  • Release of Trigger Points – Trigger points are the principle cause of pain in the back, neck, shoulders and limbs. Delivered acoustic energy unblocks the calcium pump and thus reverses the metabolic crisis in the myofilaments and releases the trigger points.

FAQ

What evidence is there that Shockwave Therapy works?

Shockwave therapy is supported by thousands of peer-reviewed scientific journal articles describing its usefulness and safety in addressing a wide array of issues. It is generally referred to as Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy, or ESWT, in such literature (similar, but not identical, to Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy – which is using sound waves to break up kidney stones) – just be sure to be specific in your searches.

How is Acoustic Compression Therapy (ACT) different from Extra-corporeal Shock Wave Therapy?

Acoustic Compression and Extra-corporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) are different terms for the same thing. Extra-corporeal Shock Wave Therapy is simply a more technical way of referring to the technology, and is often used in scientific research and papers. We prefer the term Acoustic Compression as we feel it describes the therapy better, stating that the therapy uses a compressed sound wave rather than an electrical or shock pulse. Also, it’s quite a bit easier to say!

Can I exercise/use the area right after Acoustic Compression?

Yes, using Acoustic Compression Therapy generally does not contraindicate any activity or exercise you’re already used to doing. However, ACT often makes an area feel much less painful for a few days following treatment, even when systemic healing is not yet complete. As such, care must be taken to not overstress the area by doing more with it than you did before treatment – even if it feels like you can! Icing 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off can also help the area feel better. The few cases we have seen where an area became significantly aggravated after Acoustic Compression Therapy were likely due to such overuse.

Next Steps: Schedule a FREE Consultation with Dr. Brian

If you schedule online, please include your condition in the Notes for Provider.

Schedule Consultation(616) 392-9500