Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment commonly used to treat musculoskeletal conditions such as chronic pain and inflammation. While the therapy is effective, many patients wonder about the side effects of shockwave therapy and whether it could cause damage. Understanding how the treatment feels, what to expect during a session, and knowing the potential side effects can help address these concerns.
What Does Shockwave Therapy Feel Like?
Shockwave therapy delivers mechanical sound waves to targeted areas, which stimulate the body’s natural healing response. During treatment, you’ll feel a series of pulses that can vary in intensity, depending on the location and severity of the injury. Most patients describe it as a tapping or thudding sensation. While it can be a bit uncomfortable, it is usually manageable. The more severe the condition, the more intense the sensation may feel.
What Can I Expect from a Shockwave Therapy Session?
A typical shockwave therapy session lasts between 10 and 30 minutes. First, the practitioner applies a gel to the affected area for better transmission of the sound waves. Then, they use a handheld device to deliver the waves. Many people start to feel relief after just a few sessions, though a complete treatment plan may require multiple visits over several weeks.
You can return to your normal activities immediately after the session. However, if you’re being treated for a severe condition, the therapist may advise avoiding intense activities for a short time following each session.
Does Shockwave Therapy Hurt?
Most patients tolerate shockwave therapy well. Some may experience mild discomfort during the treatment. How much discomfort you feel depends on the condition being treated and the sensitivity of the area. Fortunately, any discomfort quickly subsides once the session ends.
If the treatment feels too uncomfortable, the practitioner can adjust the intensity to ensure your comfort. Over time, as the treated area heals, patients often find later sessions less uncomfortable.
What Are the Side Effects of Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy has minimal side effects. Some patients might experience mild redness, swelling, or bruising in the treated area, but these usually disappear in a few days. Slight soreness may also occur, similar to post-workout muscle soreness, but this fades quickly.
Because shockwave therapy doesn’t involve surgery or medication, the risk of serious side effects remains low. Patients usually find that the relief from pain and improved mobility far outweigh the brief discomfort or minor side effects.
In Summary
Shockwave therapy is a safe and effective option for treating musculoskeletal conditions. It may cause mild discomfort or minor side effects like bruising, but it rarely causes any long-term damage. Most patients experience significant improvement after just a few sessions. Shockwave therapy provides a promising alternative to invasive procedures and medication, offering quick relief with minimal downtime.