Find Relief from Muscle Injuries with Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy

Whether you've tried the classic RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) method and over-the-counter pain relievers without success, or you're looking for a more targeted intervention for your muscle injury that does not require surgery, you may be interested in learning more about extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT). While often thought of as a urologic tool for treating kidney stones, ESWT is actually a highly versatile treatment option that can help promote tissue regeneration, healing, and circulation to reduce pain and inflammation associated with a variety of musculoskeletal complaints. At Interventional Orthopedics of Atlanta, orthopedic and pain management specialist Dr. Christopher Williams is committed to meeting the unique needs and preferences of patients, offering a range of innovative treatments and procedures — including ESWT for muscle injury. Take a closer look at how sound waves can help muscle pain and boost your recovery here.

What is ESWT for muscle pain?

ESWT is a nonsurgical, noninvasive treatment option for patients struggling with musculoskeletal pain, slow recovery after workouts or injury, and other types of muscle, joint, and tendon compromise. During ESWT treatment, a handheld device is passed over the affected area, delivering sound wave energy that penetrates beneath the skin's surface to the deeper layers of tissue. These sound waves work to stimulate blood flow, encourage cell and tissue regeneration, and reduce inflammation, helping patients find relief from pain and speeding up their recovery.

What kinds of muscle injuries can be treated with ESWT?

With nonsurgical ESWT treatment, athletes, post-surgical patients, older men and women with joint conditions like arthritis, and almost anyone with a musculoskeletal injury or pain that hasn't responded to at-home treatment options can potentially find some level of relief. Some of the most common injuries and conditions that may be effectively addressed with ESWT include:

• Tennis and golfer's elbow
• Runner's knee
• Achilles tendonitis
• Shoulder tendonitis
• Muscle, joint, and tendon injuries
• Shin splints
• Heel spurs
• Plantar fasciitis
• Lower back pain

During your initial consultation for ESWT muscle pain treatment in Atlanta, GA, Dr. Williams will perform a thorough evaluation, review your health and medical history, assess your symptoms, and explain how ESWT may help you. If you are not found to be a candidate for ESWT, Dr. Williams may suggest another type of regenerative treatment or orthopedic therapy that may be more appropriate and effective, such as Regenexx® therapy. In many cases, a combination of ESWT plus another regenerative therapy offers the most compelling opportunity possible to speed up your recovery, reduce your pain, and get you back to your favorite activities sooner.

How long does ESWT for a sports injury take to work?

Many patients report feeling a positive change in their pain and other symptoms almost immediately after ESWT therapy, with the results of treatment continuing to improve over the next 8 – 12 weeks. Throughout your course of care, Dr. Williams will closely monitor your response to ESWT treatment and recommend any adjustments as needed to ensure you recover from your musculoskeletal injury as quickly, fully, and safely as possible.

Don't let a muscle injury keep you sidelined. Recover faster with ESWT in Atlanta, GA

If you are frustrated with a slow recovery after a sports injury, muscle strain, or even an intense workout, nonsurgical muscle pain treatment with ESWT may be the answer to getting you back in the game sooner. For more information on how ESWT can boost your recovery after a muscle injury and more, call Interventional Orthopedics of Atlanta to schedule your consultation with Dr. Christopher Williams today.