Shockwave Therapy in Fargo
Dealing with stubborn tendon pain or discomfort that doesn’t seem to improve? Whether it’s a sore heel when you first get out of bed or an aching elbow that makes everyday tasks difficult, ongoing pain can be frustrating. Shockwave therapy offers a non-invasive option that may help reduce discomfort and encourage the body’s natural repair processes.
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Also known as extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), this approach uses acoustic pressure waves directed toward targeted areas of the body. At Bjorlie Chiropractic, we offer this modality for certain musculoskeletal concerns, including tendon-related pain.
Originally developed in the 1980s to break down kidney stones, the technology has since expanded into other areas of health care. Researchers have explored its potential to reduce pain and encourage tissue repair in tendons, ligaments, and other structures.
How Does It Work?
Radial ESWT uses compressed air to accelerate a small projectile inside a handheld device. When it strikes an applicator placed against your skin, it creates pressure waves that travel into the underlying tissue.
These waves may stimulate biological processes involved in tissue repair and influence circulation in the targeted area. Researchers are still studying exactly how this approach works and which conditions respond most favorably.
Sessions are typically brief, often lasting around 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the area being addressed. You may feel some discomfort during the procedure, but anesthesia generally isn’t needed.
Conditions That May Benefit
Your chiropractor may recommend this therapy for certain musculoskeletal concerns, including:
- Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Tennis elbow
- Shoulder tendinopathy
- Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (outer hip pain)
- Patellar and hamstring tendinopathy
- Shin splints
- Certain cases of knee osteoarthritis
Research has also explored its use for other conditions, including delayed fracture healing and muscle spasticity associated with neurological disorders. These applications require specific clinical considerations and aren’t necessarily appropriate for every patient or practice.
What Does the Research Say?
Mayo Clinic has highlighted research examining ESWT for musculoskeletal and neurological conditions. One published study involving patients with persistent tennis elbow reported improvements in pain, function, and grip strength following radial treatment.
Other studies have investigated its potential to reduce muscle spasticity following a stroke or in people with multiple sclerosis.
While these findings are encouraging, outcomes vary, and researchers continue examining appropriate protocols, dosing, and long-term benefits.
Is This Approach Right for You?
The procedure is generally well tolerated, although temporary discomfort, skin redness, or localized swelling may occur. More serious complications have been reported rarely.
It isn’t suitable for everyone. Pregnancy, certain blood-clotting disorders, infections or tumors in the targeted area, recent corticosteroid injections, and particular tendon injuries may affect whether this approach is appropriate. Other precautions may apply depending on the device and treatment area.
Your doctor will review your health history and discuss potential risks before recommending care.
A Personal Approach to Your Care
Serving families in Fargo since 1990, Bjorlie Chiropractic takes a thoughtful approach to helping patients address their health concerns.
Your visit begins with a conversation about your symptoms, daily activities, and goals. If this option is appropriate, we’ll explain what to expect and how it may fit into your overall care plan.
Depending on your needs, recommendations may also include chiropractic care, appropriate exercises, or lifestyle modifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who may be a candidate for this therapy?
People experiencing certain types of tendon pain and other musculoskeletal concerns may be candidates. An evaluation helps determine whether this approach is suitable for your condition.
Will I need anesthesia?
Anesthesia generally isn’t required for radial ESWT. You may experience some discomfort during the procedure, but sessions are typically brief.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions depends on your condition and response to care. Some protocols involve three to five sessions, often scheduled about a week apart. We’ll discuss an appropriate schedule based on your individual needs.
Take the Next Step Toward Better Movement
You don’t have to keep guessing what might help with persistent discomfort. Contact Bjorlie Chiropractic to find out whether shockwave therapy may be an option for you. We’re happy to answer your questions and help you schedule a consultation.