Acoustic Wave Therapy (AWT) is an innovative treatment for musculoskeletal conditions. AWT is a series of high-energy percussions or radial pressure waves to the affected area using a transmitter head on the skin. The mechanical pressure of the acoustic waves provokes a response in the tissue that stimulates the formation of new blood vessels. This increase in blood supply/circulation accelerates the healing process. The radial pressure waves also stimulate the body’s natural self-healing processes by promoting a positive inflammatory response at the site, then assisting with regeneration and repair. AWT appears to be able to reset the healing process especially in stubborn chronic injuries where other conventional treatment and modalities have not been successful. The evidence for the use of AWT is overwhelming! In the last 10 years, over 300 articles and abstracts have been published regarding the efficacy of AWT. Of special note, many randomized controlled trials showed that AWT is safe and effective for treating plantar fasciitis (Gerdesmeyer et al. 2008) hamstring tendinitis (Cacchio et al. 2010), Achilles tendinopathy and jumper’s knee (Rompe et al. 2007), and calcific shoulder tendinitis (Bannuru et al, 2014). There has also been exponential growth in AWT use for trigger point therapy.
The most striking aspect of AWT is that it has a 75-85 percent success rate when combined with exercise.
For many injuries, AWT is a great non-invasive alternative to surgical procedures. For best results it is recommended that treatment be performed at one week intervals for a minimum of three treatments.
“regular exercise is really important to me and I have had a chronic high hamstring injury that was not improving with routine stretching, strengthening, and acupuncture! I took the plunge, trying Acoustic Wave Therapy and was surprised to see that after 7 treatments (with my home stretching and strengthening program), I am finding significant improvement. I am able to walk (even run!) up stairs without difficulty, bend forward on one foot, and have resumed jogging and biking.” Dr. Jennifer Young
Sue Underhill is a Registered Physiotherapist at Maximum by Body ‘n Balance Physio, and is trained in administering Acoustic Wave Therapy. Give us a call (249)499-4381 to find how Acoustic Wave Therapy can help you.
