High-Energy ShockWave ESWT

When Can I Return to Normal Activities?

Most patients return to normal light duty activities the next day. Many patients feel relief the next day but the entire process of creating a new blood supply for the affected area is 6 weeks to 3 months, but the healing mechanisms engaged with the ESWT procedure that both Science and Medicine know are present continue healing treated areas for as long as (8) months. 

 

What should I bring with me when I come for an appointment?

When you come for your appointment remember to bring the following: Drivers License or a valid ID, Reports, X-rays, MRI's, CT scans, etc. and any other relevant information like List of medications (if any) and Comfortable Clothing.

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ESWT delivers better outcomes than surgery with a minimal risk of infection, a higher success rate, and a much faster recovery rate.

 

After the ESWT?

You may experience some pain or discomfort in the treated area after the anesthesia effects have subsided. You may also continue to experience the same type of pain you had prior to treatment for 1 to 2 weeks. Pain is manageable by over the counter pain medication (i.e. Tylenol) in most cases. You should not participate in any stressful activity involving the affected area for 4 weeks after the procedure.

 

“Stressful activity” may include running or jogging, doing heavy housework or yard work, or participating in sports. Following this 4-week period, you should be able to resume normal activity.

 

Simple Stretching exercises should be performed several times daily and before any sports activity, or before walking long distances. Massage of the treated area prior to activities. After, rest may also be beneficial. Stretching for 30 seconds several times a day is recommended.

 

Maximum healing effect of the procedure cannot be evaluated prior to 12 weeks post procedure. The healing effect is also dependent upon individual patient response, and improvement may continue beyond the 12-week evaluation period.

 

Rest for the remainder of the day and night after your procedure!

 

Resume gentle stretching exercises the day following the procedure. Avoid icing or taking any anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, for up to two months after the ESWT procedure.

 

Avoid excessive activity too soon that may reinjury the treatment site. Example; running, if the treatment was for the foot, ankle, knee, etc.

 

Although patients sometimes feel they can return to all normal activities right away, we will determine when that is appropriate for your situation. It is important to use caution and follow al of the  instructions to avoid injuring the treated area. Because ESWT temporarily reduces or eliminates the sensation of pain, patients sometimes become too active too soon.

 

Insurance?

This may depend on the insurance policy. Private-Pay is an option where you have total control of what you know that you are wanting. When insurances were paying back in early 2000, patients would have to go through 6 months, under a doctor care with all of the conservative measures before the insurance would even consider paying for the procedure. When insurance was covering High Energy ShockWave ESWT it was paying $6,000 Per Procedure.