Not all extracorporeal shockwave is the same. Many devices on the market utilize radial pulse technology (EPAT) which does not represent a true shockwave. While radial pulse technology is safe and can be effective with some superficial conditions, it lacks the ability to penetrate deep. Dr Ohlson utilizes Focused Shockwave (FSW) which has the ability to treat the same problems as radial pulse but can penetrate deeper into muscles, joint, and tendons. Furthermore, FSW can pentrate bone whereas EPAT cannot. FSW represents a true shockwave. This technology originated with the treatment of kidney stones (lithotripsy) in the 1980's. The technology was made available to orthopedics in the 1990's. However, the units were large and impractical for office use. Within the past several years, table top versions have become available for patient care in the office. Dr Ohlson utilizes a type of focused shockwave therapy that dervives its energy from an elctromagnetic coil. Complications are extremely rare. Focused shockwave can be used to treat problems of the shoulder, hip, back, knee, foot, and ankle. The number of treatments deends on the problem. However, most problems require 4-6 treatments spaced a week a part. Each session takes at most 5 minutes. While most insurance plans do not reimburse for shockwave, the cost is very manageable. Benefits include minimal downtime, sustained relief and few, if any, complications. Some patients may even be able to avoid surgery with shockwave.
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