Tennis elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition characterized by pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow. This discomfort can extend down the forearm and hand, making everyday activities like gripping or lifting uncomfortable. While often associated with athletes, this condition can affect anyone who engages in repetitive arm and wrist movements, leading to tiny tears and degeneration in the tendons connecting the forearm muscles to the elbow. Shockwave therapy has emerged as a non-invasive treatment option.
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy, or Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive medical procedure that uses high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate healing in injured tissues. These waves are generated outside the body and transmitted into the affected area through the skin. The energy promotes regeneration and repair within bones, tendons, and other soft tissues.
There are two primary types of shockwave therapy: radial and focused. Radial shockwave therapy uses lower-intensity waves that spread out, suitable for treating larger, more superficial areas. Focused shockwave therapy generates higher-intensity waves precisely concentrated at a specific point, allowing for deeper penetration into targeted tissues. For musculoskeletal conditions like tennis elbow, focused shockwave therapy is often favored for its precision and ability to reach deeper tissues near the bone.
How Shockwave Therapy Works for Tennis Elbow
Shockwave therapy stimulates the body’s natural healing mechanisms by creating microtraumas in the affected tissues. This mechanical stimulation leads to increased cellular permeability and metabolism, accelerating the healing process.
The therapy promotes angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, increasing blood flow to the injured tendons. This enhanced circulation delivers more oxygen and nutrients to the damaged area, essential for tissue repair and regeneration. Shockwaves also stimulate collagen production, a protein fundamental for tendon repair, strengthening affected tendons and reducing re-injury risk. Furthermore, the therapy helps break down scar tissue and calcifications, improving flexibility and function. The shockwaves also reduce pain signals by desensitizing nerve endings, providing pain relief and allowing patients to engage in rehabilitation exercises.
The Treatment Experience
A typical shockwave therapy session for tennis elbow is non-invasive. Patients are seated comfortably, and a conductive gel is applied to the skin over the outer elbow to ensure effective transmission of the waves. A healthcare professional then uses a handheld device to deliver the shockwaves directly to the injured tendons.
While generally well-tolerated, patients may experience some discomfort or mild pain during the session. The intensity of the therapy can be adjusted to manage patient comfort levels. Each session typically lasts 10 to 20 minutes. A course of treatment usually involves three to five sessions, spaced 7 to 10 days apart.
Following a session, temporary soreness, redness, or mild swelling is common. Patients are advised to avoid applying ice or taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications after treatment, as these can interfere with the therapy’s healing effects.
Effectiveness and Considerations
Shockwave therapy has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing pain and improving function for individuals with tennis elbow. Many patients report pain relief after a few sessions, with continued improvements as tissues heal. Studies indicate significant improvements in pain levels and functional capacity.
While considered safe, shockwave therapy can have some temporary, mild side effects, including pain or discomfort during and immediately after treatment, temporary redness, swelling, or bruising at the treatment site. These reactions typically subside within a few days. Contraindications include pregnant individuals, those with bleeding disorders or on anticoagulant medication, and patients with cancer at the treatment site. Rare complications, such as nerve irritation or tendon rupture, have been reported. Full recovery can take time, and results can vary depending on individual factors and the severity of the condition.