Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) is a chronic condition characterized by muscle pain and discomfort due to trigger points or knots within the muscles. Managing MPS effectively often requires shockwave therapy in Edmonton, including various therapeutic interventions. One promising treatment for MPS is Shockwave Therapy.
Understanding Myofascial Pain Syndrome
Before diving into Shockwave Therapy, it’s essential to understand what Myofascial Pain Syndrome entails. MPS is a condition where trigger points—tight bands of muscle fibres—develop in muscles and fascia. These trigger points can cause local pain in other body areas. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent muscle pain and tenderness
- Reduced range of motion
- Muscle stiffness
- Referred pain to other parts of the body
- Difficulty with daily activities
What is Shockwave Therapy?
It is known as Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT), a noninvasive treatment that utilizes acoustic waves to stimulate damaged tissues. This therapy involves delivering high-energy shockwaves to specific body areas to promote tissue repair and reduce pain. It is commonly used for musculoskeletal conditions and has shown promising results for various types of pain, including Myofascial Pain Syndrome.
How Shockwave Therapy Works
1. Acoustic Wave Generation
Shockwave Therapy begins with generating acoustic waves using a specialized handheld device. These acoustic waves are high-energy sound waves directed toward the affected area. The device creates these waves through a process known as piezoelectric generation. Here’s a closer look at how this process works:
- Piezoelectric Effect: In piezoelectric devices, electrical energy is converted into mechanical energy. When an electric current passes through piezoelectric crystals, they vibrate and produce shockwaves.
- Penetration: The generated shockwaves are focused and delivered to the deep layers of the tissues. They penetrate the skin and underlying muscle tissues without affecting the surface layers. The depth and intensity of the waves depend on the condition being treated.
2. Increased Blood Flow
Once the shockwaves reach the targeted tissues, they cause a series of physiological responses that lead to increased blood flow. Here’s how it works:
- Vascular Response: The shockwaves induce micro-trauma in the tissues, which triggers a local inflammatory response. This process is beneficial as it stimulates blood vessels (vasodilation) opening in the treated area.
- Enhanced Circulation: Improved blood flow enhances the delivery of oxygen and essential nutrients to the damaged tissues. This enhanced circulation helps to improve the healing by providing the cells with the necessary resources to repair and regenerate.
- Reduced Inflammation: Increased blood flow also helps to flush metabolic waste products and inflammatory mediators from the tissues, reducing swelling and inflammation.
3. Collagen Production
Collagen being a vital protein that provides structural support and strength to tissues. is stimulated through shockwave therapy through the following mechanisms:
- Mechanical Stimulation: The shockwaves create mechanical stress in the tissues, stimulating fibroblast cells to produce collagen. Fibroblast cells are responsible for collagen synthesis.
- Regeneration of Connective Tissues: Enhanced collagen production contributes to the regeneration of damaged muscle fibres, tendons, and connective tissues, helping to restore the structural integrity and function of the affected area.
- Long-Term Benefits: The increased collagen not only aids in repairing existing damage but also improves the overall strength and elasticity of the tissues, reducing the likelihood of future injuries.
4. Pain Reduction
One of the primary benefits of Shockwave treatment is its ability to reduce pain. This is achieved through several mechanisms:
- Pain Signal Interference: Shockwaves affect the nerves within the treated area, which can interfere with transmitting pain signals to the brain. This effect helps to reduce the perception of pain.
- Activation of Pain-Relief Mechanisms: The therapy stimulates the body’s natural pain-relief mechanisms, such as releasing endorphins and other pain-modulating substances. These natural chemicals help alleviate pain and provide a sense of relief.
- Desensitization of Nerves: Repeated exposure to shockwaves can desensitize the nerve endings in the affected area, reducing pain sensitivity over time.
5. Breakdown of Calcifications
In some cases, Shockwave Therapy treatment is used to address calcifications or adhesions that may be contributing to pain and restricted movement:
- Disruption of Calcium Deposits: The shockwaves can break down calcium deposits or mineralized structures within the tissues. This process helps reduce stiffness and improve mobility.
- Reduction of Scar Tissue: The therapy can also help break down adhesions that may have formed due to previous injuries or surgeries. This reduction in scar tissue can enhance the flexibility and function of the affected muscles and joints.
What to Expect During Shockwave Therapy Session
Before beginning Shockwave Therapy in Edmonton, a physiotherapist conducts a thorough assessment. Here’s what to expect during this initial stage:
During the ESWT Shockwave Therapy session, experience the following steps:
- Preparation: The treatment area is covered with a conductive gel. It helps to transmit the shockwaves effectively into the tissues.
- Application of the Device: The physiotherapist will use a handheld shockwave device to apply the acoustic waves to the targeted areas. The device will be moved over the treatment area in a controlled manner.
- Adjustments: Based on the feedback and the physiotherapist’s assessment, the intensity and frequency of the shockwaves will be adjusted. The therapist will monitor the comfort levels and make necessary modifications to ensure the treatment is effective and tolerable.
- Duration: Each session typically lasts for 15 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area and the specific condition addressed. The number of sessions required can vary, but a standard treatment plan involves multiple sessions spaced a few days apart.
Say Goodbye to Chronic Muscle Pain
Shockwave Therapy in Edmonton offers a promising approach for managing Myofascial Pain Syndrome, providing effective pain relief and promoting tissue healing. If you’re experiencing chronic muscle pain or suspect you have Myofascial Pain Syndrome, don’t let discomfort hold you back. Contact Next Step Physiotherapy Clinic experts today to explore how Shockwave Therapy and other advanced treatments can help you get back to feeling your best.
