Radial Shockwave Therapy
So, what is it?
Shockwave therapy accelerates the healing process in the body by stimulating the metabolism and enhancing blood circulation to regenerate damaged tissue.
Strong acoustic energy pulses are applied to the affected area in short increments, creating micro-cavitation bubbles that expand and burst. The force created by these bubbles stimulates cells in the body that are responsible for bone & connective tissue healing.
The History of Shockwave Therapy
In the 1980’s, researchers in Germany discovered the application of shockwaves to the human body when researching ways to breakup the calcification of kidney stones, making the stones easier for patients to pass.
Later in the 1990’s, scientists decided that they wanted to explore the effects of high and low-energy shockwaves on musculoskeletal & soft tissue injuries. Today, shockwave is used widely by Physiotherapists, Chiropractors, Kinesiologists & Massage Therapists to target specific areas and initiate the healing process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it feel like? does it hurt?
Most people say they experience mild to minimal discomfort during treatment. The feeling is comparable to a rubber band snapping on your hand. Skin sensitivity may cause more discomfort.
How long are the treatments?
A session can be anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes in length! Initial assessments will include an in-depth consultation.
How successful are the treatments?
Proven effectiveness is reported at around 95%
Are there any side effects?
Minimal side effects are common such as redness, bruising, inflammation or swelling in the treated area, and temporary loss of sensation. Side effects that are not common but may occur include hematoma, skin damage, and petechiae.
How much does it cost?
Each session is $95.00 including applicable taxes. Treatment protocol starts with 3 - 5 sessions depending on the area of treatment. After the initial sessions, the condition will be reevaluated to determine if more sessions are needed.
What are the most common applications?
6. Can i try shockwave?
Shockwave may not be suitable for certain individuals:
current pregnancy
defibrillator / pacemaker implants
acute injury / inflammatory stage (within 3 months of onset of symptoms)
blood disorders - taking blood thinners, coagulants, anticoagulants, NSAIDs, etc.*
corticosteroid injections (within 6 weeks)
metal implants from previous surgery*
cancer / tumor disease / polypus
thrombosis
polyneuropathy*
children / young adults near growth plates
*Some above mentioned conditions may be still be suitable to receive shockwave. Please consult with a therapist form our Shockwave team prior to booking.
What Happens if I book an appointment and I am deemed unable to receive treatment?
In the situation where your therapist determines that you are not suitable to receive shockwave, your appointment will be discontinued and you will only be charged our consultation fee. Your therapist will recommend alternative options for therapy and may recommend a reassessment for shockwave in the coming weeks/months depending on your symptoms.
Our consultation fee is $30.00
Is direct billing available?
The short answer is yes. However, shockwave therapy is billed under your plan’s yearly allotment for massage therapy. So, if you’ve already used your massage coverage for the year, you will have to pay upfront for any Shockwave appointments until your coverage resets. Direct billing is only available with Taya.
All appointments with Erica are unfortunately unable to be direct billed as she is a Registered Kinesiologist and is unable to direct bill insurance plans. Receipts can be issued for self-submission.
