Thursday, April 26, 2012

How Does Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy Work?

Shock wave therapy was originally developed by Dornier MedTech to break up kidney stones in the body. The therapy was approved by the FDA in the early 1980s and today is the standard treatment of choice for urinary stones.
An important benefit of this therapy is that it's developed outside the body (extracorporeally), so many of the risks associated with surgery are eliminated. The shock waves actually stimulate or trigger your body's own repair mechanisms. Doctors around the world, especially in Europe, have successfully used this same shock wave treatment since the early 1990s.
The Dornier Epos Ultra is a new shock wave therapy system designed specifically for orthopedic use. The system consists of three main parts:
1. Shock wave therapy system- this system produces the actual shock waves (also known as pressure or sound waves), which travel through the therapy head's water-filled cushion. This cushion is placed against your foot during treatment.
2. Articulated arm- the therapy head is attached to the end of this arm-like device on the system. The arm is easily moved, so that the therapy head can be closely aligned to the area of your foot being treated.
3. Ultrasound imaging system- much like an X-ray, the ultrasound imaging system is used by some healthcare providers to actually see inside your foot. A live picture of your foot will show on a TV-like screen, so the doctor can pinpoint the treatment site and closely watch what's going on during your treatment. Your feedback is important too.
Next time: What happens during treatment?
Jeffrey S. Kahn, DPM
Heel Pain Doctor in CT
Podiatrist in Rocky Hill and Middletown, CT
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