Focused Shockwave Therapy

Many other clinics have radial “shockwave” machines.   Although helpful for some conditions, radial shockwave machines do not have enough power to create a true shockwave (impulse greater than the speed of sound).   Many medical studies have also shown that Focused shockwave works better.

• ORIK has the only Focused shockwave in Peterborough
• Ultimately, the medical and scientific studies show better long term results and higher success rates for studies using Focused shockwave compared to the more common radial “shockwave” machines that don’t generate a true shockwave.
• Focused shockwave creates a true shockwave (faster than the speed of sound) with higher energy levels
• Focused shockwave treatment can cause discomfort but is not painful for most, while radial shockwave is often more painful.
• Focus shockwave energy is concentrated on the injured tissue. In radial shockwave the energy is spread out like a shotgun, and delivered to a wider area, hence affecting normal tissue while delivering less energy to the injured tissue.
• Despite focused shockwave being superior in many medical studies, Focused shockwave machines are uncommon as they cost 3-5x more than a radial shockwave machine

Shockwave therapy accelerates the healing process in the body by stimulating the metabolism and enhancing blood circulation to regenerate damaged tissue. Shockwave technology delivers strong energy pulses that are applied to the affected area for short periods of time. This stimulates cells in the body that are responsible for bone and connective tissue healing. In many instances, shockwave therapy treatments have proven to be effective in cases where the human body has not been able to heal itself on its own.

The process is simple and can cause a slight discomfort.  During your visit to ORIK, your physiotherapist will locate the exact area that needs to be treated.  Some patients feel a slight tingle or tolerable discomfort. The intensity may be adjusted as discussed with your physiotherapist as needed.   The entire session takes 5-15 minutes and 3-6  treatments are recommended for best results.

Some of these include:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Calcific Tendinitis/Tendonopathy
• Patellar Tendinitis/Tendonopathy
• Lateral Epicondylopathy of the Elbow (tennis elbow)
• Achilles Tendinitis/Tendonopathy
• Rotator Cuff Tendinitis/Tendonopathy
• Any other Tendinitis/Tendonopathy
• Greater Trochanter Pain Syndrome (Also known as Trochanteric or Hip Bursitis, or Proximal IT Band Syndrome)
• Hamstring pain
• Shin Splints
• Stress Fractures
• Delayed bone healing or Non-Union
• Osteochondritis Dissecans
• Osteoarthritis

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment with mild discomfort, which is tolerable by most patients. The discomfort experienced is dependent on the already existing pain in the target area. Shockwave is a quick and effective treatment and application takes about 3-5 minutes. The intensity of the treatment can be adjusted to each patient’s tolerable levels. After treatment, it is possible to experience soreness, tenderness, and mild swelling, which subside after a day or two.

Yes, most Extended Health Plan (EHP) providers cover shockwave therapy under Physiotherapy or Chiropractic treatment. However, you should check with your insurance company to be sure that they will cover your treatment. At ORIK, we can directly bill your EHP provider.