Since 2003, Glenora Chiropractic & Physiotherapy in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, has treated patients with shockwave therapy to end their pain. We do this using the Intelect RPW Shockwave machine. Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment for inflammation, tendon problems, and many other chronic injuries. Shockwave therapy breaks down built-up fibrous scar tissue. Shockwave therapy has been available in Canada since the mid-1990s.
The first step is for the doctor or therapist to decide where to apply the shockwaves. A small machine is pressed directly on your skin to administer the therapy. Most treatments only take a few minutes, and there is only minor discomfort or pain. Shockwave therapy is usually done once a week for a three to six-week period. After the last treatment, it will take between four to six weeks for tissues to normalize and fully heal. Here are just some of the conditions we treat at the Edmonton office;
- Tennis and Golfers Elbow
- Rotator Cuff Injuries and Tears
- Heel Spurs
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Patellar Tendonitis
- Achilles Tendonitis
- Glute and Hip Tendonitis
- Trigger Finger
- Hypertonic Muscle
- Myofascial Syndromes
- Hematomas
The machine we use is designed to reduce muscle aches and pains, increase blood flow temporarily, and activate connective tissue. It also targets a small area right where the pain is located and can reach deep tissue. Shockwave therapy is often a better treatment for pain than traditional medication. The results are more immediate, and healing can begin sooner because the patient does not have to wait for the treatment to kick in.
Shockwave therapy helps create new blood cells, stimulates collagen production, and reduces calcium build-up. Patients are advised to avoid physical activity for 48 hours after each shockwave therapy session. There are a few minor side effects on the treated area; mild bruising, swelling, pain, numbness, or tingling. It is a great option for athletes whose injuries are not healing with other treatments, such as rest, ice packs, physical therapy, braces, or orthotics.
Shockwave therapy, when combined with other treatments, is only $10. Some extended benefits plans will cover the cost. The fee schedule is determined by the Alberta College and Association of Chiropractors. The Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan covers part of each shockwave therapy treatment with an annual maximum. Be sure to ask about your possible fees when booking the first appointment. Our Alberta office directly bills all major health benefits companies. These companies include Alberta Blue Cross, Sunlife, Green Shield, Great West Life, and Standard Life.
Any extended health care coverage you may have can also help cover the cost of shockwave treatment. Minor injuries suffered in a vehicle accident will be pre-approved for coverage under Alberta’s Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Program. A specified number of shockwave therapy treatments will be billed directly to the insurance company. If you are injured at work, the Workers Compensation Board may approve coverage for shockwave therapy.
For more information about shockwave therapy, please call 780-453-1111. You can also send a private email message to [email protected].