SHOCKWAVE THERAPY FOR SHOULDER PAIN
As one of the most mobile joints in the body, the shoulder is prone to injuries and chronic conditions like tendonitis, rotator cuff issues, and frozen shoulder. These conditions can lead to persistent pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion, often making simple tasks like lifting, reaching, or even sleeping comfortably a challenge.
At Westport Chiropractic and Rehab in Louisville, KY, we understand how debilitating shoulder pain can be, which is why we offer shockwave therapy to provide lasting relief. This method is particularly beneficial for patients dealing with chronic conditions that have not responded to conventional treatments like rest, physical therapy, or medication.
If you’ve been struggling with chronic shoulder pain and are looking for an effective, non-invasive treatment option, shockwave therapy could be the right choice for you.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Randall Wheeler, D.C. at Westport Chiropractic and Rehab for a personalized evaluation. Our office located at 4169 Westport Rd, Louisville, KY 40207 is a welcoming space where patients can feel comfortable and supported throughout their journey to recovery. Whether you’re dealing with chronic shoulder pain or a recent injury, our shoulder chiropractor is nearby to provide the care you need.
We are currently offering a new patient special offer which includes a complimentary consultation to discuss your symptoms and treatment options.
Understanding Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain can arise from a variety of causes, ranging from acute injuries to long-term wear and tear. As one of the most complex joints in the body, the shoulder is made up of bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments that work together to allow an impressive range of motion.
However, this complexity also makes it more susceptible to problems such as:
- Rotator Cuff Injuries: Tears or strains in the tendons surrounding the shoulder joint.
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons due to overuse or repetitive motions.
- Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): Stiffness and limited movement caused by tightening of the joint capsule.
- Arthritis: Degeneration of the joint cartilage, leading to pain and inflammation.
- Calcific Tendinitis: Calcium deposits in the shoulder tendons causing sharp pain.
Understanding the source of your shoulder pain is the first step in finding effective relief. Consult with a shoulder pain chiropractor near you to identify the root cause of your pain and develop a tailored treatment plan.
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate healing in the body. These waves are directed at the affected area, promoting increased blood flow, reducing inflammation, and encouraging the repair of damaged tissues.
Benefits of shockwave therapy when compared to traditional pain relieving methods include:
- Non-invasive with no need for surgery or medications.
- Quick treatment sessions, often lasting less than 30 minutes.
- Minimal recovery time, allowing you to return to daily activities quickly.
- Effective in promoting long-term tissue healing and pain reduction.
OFFICE HOURS
Monday to Thursday
8:30am – 12:00pm
2:30pm – 6:00pm
Friday to Sunday
Closed
Westport Chiropractic and Rehab
4169 Westport Rd #107
Louisville, KY 40207
How Does Shockwave Therapy Work for Shoulder Pain?
Shockwave therapy works by delivering acoustic waves to the affected shoulder area, targeting damaged tissues and promoting the body’s natural healing response. These waves penetrate deep into the tissue, encouraging cellular repair and regeneration by increasing blood circulation and stimulating collagen production.
Additionally, shockwave therapy helps break down calcified deposits in the tendons and reduces inflammation, which can alleviate pain and improve mobility. The mechanical energy delivered by the therapy disrupts pain signals sent to the brain, providing immediate relief for many patients.
What to Expect During Shockwave Therapy for Shoulder Pain
When you visit our shoulder specialist in Louisville, KY, for shockwave therapy, you can expect a straightforward and comfortable treatment experience.
- Initial Evaluation: The frozen shoulder chiropractor will assess your condition, pinpoint the areas causing pain, and discuss your treatment goals.
- Preparation:: The affected shoulder area is cleaned, and a gel is applied to enhance the transmission of acoustic waves.
- Treatment Application: A handheld device delivers high-energy acoustic waves to the targeted area. You may feel a pulsing sensation, which is typically well-tolerated.
- Session Duration: Each session usually lasts 15 to 30 minutes, depending on your condition and treatment plan.
- Post-Treatment Guidance: After the shoulder pain therapy session, your chiropractor may provide recommendations for aftercare or suggest complementary therapies to enhance results.
Shockwave therapy requires no downtime, allowing you to resume daily activities immediately. Many patients experience noticeable improvements in pain and mobility within a few sessions. This makes shockwave therapy an effective and convenient option for shoulder pain relief.
Clinical Evidence Supporting Shockwave Therapy for Shoulder Pain
A recent prospective study evaluated the effectiveness of shockwave therapy in treating common shoulder conditions, including rotator cuff tendinopathy, adhesive capsulitis, calcific tendonitis, and partial rotator cuff injuries. The study included 54 patients aged 51 to 92 who had not responded to conservative treatments for at least three months. Over a three-month follow-up period, significant improvements were observed in pain levels, range of motion, and shoulder functionality.
Patients underwent three shockwave therapy sessions, spaced one week apart. Results showed marked reductions in pain, as measured by the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), with average scores improving from 6.9 to 3.4. Functional assessments, such as the UCLA and DASH scores, also demonstrated notable gains. For instance, patients with rotator cuff tendinopathy saw functional scores improve from 41.2 to 74.3, and those with adhesive capsulitis experienced similar positive outcomes.
The study concluded that shockwave therapy is a safe and effective treatment for various shoulder conditions, regardless of age or symptom duration. These findings align with prior research showing the benefits of shockwave therapy in reducing pain and enhancing recovery
Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You?
Shockwave therapy offers a targeted approach for addressing various shoulder conditions without the need for invasive procedures. It is designed for individuals experiencing ongoing discomfort that hasn’t improved with traditional methods. This treatment is suitable for everyone, regardless of age or the duration of symptoms.
We suggest considering shockwave therapy for shoulder pain if:
- You experience difficulty with daily tasks due to shoulder pain
- Non-invasive treatment options are your preference
- You’ve been diagnosed with a shoulder condition but want to explore advanced therapies
- You are looking for a treatment with minimal downtime
While shockwave therapy is highly effective, a consultation with a shoulder specialist is essential to determine if it’s the right treatment for your specific condition.
Call our chiropractor for shoulder pain to learn whether shockwave therapy is the right treatment to restore your shoulder’s function and reduce pain.
Find Relief with Shockwave Therapy Today
Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back from enjoying your daily life. Shockwave therapy offers a non-invasive, effective solution to address pain and improve mobility.
Call (502) 326-5000 for shoulder pain therapy near you! Dr. Randall Wheeler, D.C., will personally discuss your symptoms, evaluate your condition, and develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
FAQ's
Yes, shockwave therapy is highly effective for treating shoulder pain caused by conditions like rotator cuff injuries, tendonitis, and frozen shoulder. It promotes healing, reduces pain, and improves mobility without the need for surgery.
Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) is often considered the most painful shoulder condition due to severe stiffness and limited range of motion. It can make daily activities like lifting or reaching extremely challenging.
Yes, you can walk and resume most normal activities immediately after shockwave therapy. The treatment is non-invasive and requires no downtime.
Many patients begin to notice improvements within 1 to 3 sessions, with significant results typically seen after a few weeks. The healing process continues even after the treatment sessions are completed.
Westport Chiropractic and Rehab
4169 Westport Rd #107
Louisville, KY 40207
Office Hours
Monday to Thursday:
8:30 AM – 12:00 PM
2:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Friday to Sunday:
Closed