Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive medical treatment widely used to promote healing in various musculoskeletal disorders. At Gangnam Seran Clinic, we take pride in offering advanced and effective treatments like ESWT, helping patients achieve optimal health and wellness.
How ESWT Works
ESWT delivers shock waves directly to damaged tissues, thus reducing pain and promoting healing. These high-energy sound waves, generated outside the body, travel through the skin to reach the target area. Consequently, the energy from these waves improves blood flow, reduces inflammation, and stimulates the formation of new blood vessels and tissue, thereby aiding in the healing process.
Furthermore, ESWT helps break down calcified fibroblasts, which are often present in chronic tendinopathy. This process enables the body to initiate a more robust healing response, often leading to significant pain reduction and functional improvement.
Benefits of ESWT
Research and clinical experience show that ESWT effectively treats various conditions, including:
- Degenerative arthritis
- Tennis elbow / Golfer’s elbow
- Shoulder pain and rotator cuff disorders
- Calcific shoulder tendinitis
- Patellar tendinitis
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Chronic neck, shoulder, and back pain
- Plantar fasciitis
- Cellulite reduction (aesthetic use)
Moreover, ESWT shows promising results in promoting bone healing and neovascularization in cases of non-union fractures and avascular necrosis.
Types of Shock Waves
There are two primary types of shock waves used to treat pain effectively:
- Focused Shock Wave: This type penetrates deeper tissues and primarily treats chronic conditions causing severe pain, such as osteoarthritis, calcifying tendinitis, and chronic plantar fasciitis. Focused shock waves deliver precise energy levels to targeted areas, making them ideal for deep tissue treatments.
- Radial Shock Wave: The energy from radial shock waves spreads out from the skin surface, making it effective for superficial tissues and larger areas. Therefore, it treats myofascial pain syndrome, muscle pain, and various soft tissue injuries. Radial shock waves typically are less intense but cover a broader treatment area.
Treatment Frequency and Duration
Patients typically begin to feel improvement after a few sessions. However, they should undergo at least five treatments for optimal results. The exact number of sessions depends on the severity and chronicity of the condition. We tailor ESWT treatment schedules to each patient’s specific condition and needs, with sessions usually conducted about a week apart. Each treatment lasts approximately 15 to 20 minutes. While some patients may experience relief after just a few treatments, others may need a longer series to achieve the desired results.
Additionally, combining ESWT with other therapeutic modalities, such as physical therapy and specific exercise programs, can enhance treatment outcomes further. This multimodal approach ensures comprehensive management of the underlying condition and helps maintain long-term benefits.
Cost of ESWT
In Korea, the average cost of ESWT ranges from 70,000 KRW to 250,000 KRW per session. The variation in cost depends on factors such as the specific condition treated, the number of shock waves applied, and the technology used during the treatment. The cost of the shock wave machine also varies, with higher-functioning machines generally resulting in higher treatment costs.
Treatment at Gangnam Seran Clinic
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy offers a beneficial treatment option for individuals suffering from chronic pain and musculoskeletal disorders. At Gangnam Seran Clinic, our ESWT device, utilizing focused ultrasound, quickly improves acute and chronic pain for our patients. We remain committed to providing cutting-edge treatments to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.
Our experienced medical professionals conduct a thorough assessment before recommending ESWT, ensuring that each patient receives personalized and effective treatment. We continuously monitor progress and adjust treatment plans as necessary to maximize therapeutic benefits.
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