Why Focused Shockwave Therapy Is Better Than Radial Shockwave Therapy

The effects of shockwaves on the human body were discovered during World War 2. After its medical application received more attention, they were commonly used in the 1990s.

 

A doctor applying laser therapy

With advancements in technology, focused shockwave therapy has become a viable alternative to radial shockwave therapy and is even considered as the better option between the two. Here’s why:

1.  It Focuses On a Specific Part of the Body

The design of the machinery for both radial and focused shockwave therapy is different. Radial therapy passes energy beams throughout the area that it’s being released at, while focused therapy is narrower and only affects the part of the body it was intended for.

Therefore, focused shockwave therapy is better for the patient as it doesn’t direct the energy beams to parts of the body that don't require it, putting them at unnecessary risk. The narrow range of focused shockwave therapy helps in this regard.

2.  It Penetrates Deeper

Radial shockwave therapy has a depth of 3-4cm, while focused shockwave therapy can reach 12cm. Focused therapy is capable of reaching deeper and enforcing the energy beams on smaller targets.

This is because radial shockwaves are released at their highest speed and slow down as they enter the body, while focused shockwaves use a minimal amount of energy at the inception point of the wave.

Patients who need to target tissues closer to the bones are better off with focused shockwave therapy.

3.  It Is More Effective In The Long Term

Research conducted regarding the effectiveness of both methods concluded that focused shockwave therapy is more effective over the long term.

Majority of patients opt for focused shockwave therapy procedures to avoid potential surgeries and invasive treatments.

With radial shockwave therapy, the patient may have to eventually opt for surgery if long-term results aren't as promising. 

Get Shockwave Therapy in Calgary

If you’re looking to get shockwave therapy in Calgary, get in touch with Divergent Innovative Health Care.

They provide treatment and physical therapy for back pain, neck pain, elbow pain, knee pain, and a number of other ailments.

Book an appointment today to get started on your recovery.

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