Now that you know a little more about the history of SoftWave Therapy, let's dive into how it works at Health 1st.

 

As mentioned before, SoftWave Therapy works through the application of high-energy sound waves (acoustic waves) to the affected area of the body.

 

Mechanism of Action

• Acoustic Wave Generation: The therapy device generates high-energy sound waves using an electrohydraulic technique, creating a shock wave that is transmitted into the body through a water medium.

 

• Penetration into Tissues: These sound waves travel through the skin and penetrate deep into tissues, including muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones.

 

• Cellular Effects: The shock waves cause microtrauma or micro-cavitation bubbles within the tissues. This controlled microtrauma stimulates the body's natural healing processes.

 

Biological Responses

• Increased Blood Flow: The shock waves stimulate the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) and enhance blood circulation in the affected area, providing more oxygen and nutrients to the tissues, which aids in the healing process.

 

• Reduction of Inflammation: The therapy helps reduce inflammation by decreasing the production of inflammatory mediators and increasing anti-inflammatory cytokines.

 

• Pain Relief: SoftWave Therapy interrupts the transmission of pain signals to the brain, providing immediate pain relief. It also stimulates the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers produced by the body.

 

• Stimulation of Cell Growth and Repair: The shock waves activate stem cells and growth factors, promoting the repair and regeneration of damaged cells and tissues. This can lead to the formation of new, healthy tissue in the treated area.

 

• Breaking Down Calcifications: In conditions where calcifications are present (e.g., calcific tendonitis), the acoustic waves help break down the calcium deposits, which are then gradually reabsorbed and eliminated by the body.

 

Clinical Applications

• Musculoskeletal Conditions: Effective in treating conditions such as plantar fasciitis, tendinitis, and arthritis by reducing pain and promoting tissue healing.

 

• Sports Injuries: Helps athletes recover from injuries like sprains, strains, and overuse injuries by enhancing the body's natural repair mechanisms.

 

• Chronic Pain: Provides relief from chronic pain conditions by interrupting pain signals and reducing inflammation.

 

• Wound Healing: Can be used to promote the healing of chronic wounds and ulcers by stimulating blood flow and cellular repair.

 

Treatment Process

• Initial Assessment: The practitioner assesses the patient's condition to determine if SoftWave Therapy is appropriate.

 

• Application: The treatment area is exposed, and a gel is applied to facilitate the transmission of sound waves. The device's applicator is then moved over the treatment area.

 

• Treatment Duration: Each session typically lasts between 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the condition being treated and the size of the area.

 

• Frequency of Sessions: The number of sessions required varies, but many patients experience improvement after just a few treatments. Sessions are usually spaced a few days to a week apart.

 

• Post-Treatment: There may be some temporary discomfort or redness in the treated area, but this generally resolves quickly. Patients can usually return to normal activities immediately after treatment.