What are the Two Negative Consequences of Shock Therapy?

In the ever - evolving landscape of modern medicine, shock therapy, often delivered through a Low energy shock wave therapy machine, has emerged as a treatment option for a variety of musculoskeletal and other medical conditions. Proponents of this therapy highlight its potential to stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms, promote tissue repair, and relieve pain. However, like any medical intervention, shock therapy is not without its drawbacks. In this blog, we will conduct an in - depth exploration of two significant negative consequences associated with shock therapy when administered via a shock wave therapy machine.

Uncomfortable Treatment Experience and Lingering Post - Treatment Discomfort

Acute Discomfort During Treatment Sessions

​​​​​​​When a shock wave therapy machine is in operation, patients frequently endure a significant level of discomfort during the treatment session. The shock wave therapy machine generates shockwaves, which are high - energy acoustic impulses. These shockwaves propagate through the skin, subcutaneous tissues, and deeper muscle layers to reach the targeted anatomical structures.

Research published in the [Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation] investigated patients undergoing shock therapy for plantar fasciitis using a shock wave therapy machine. The study found that approximately 80% of the participants reported experiencing sharp, piercing pain during the treatment. The shockwaves’ impact on the damaged collagen fibers in the plantar fascia, although intended to initiate the healing cascade, simultaneously elicits a substantial pain response. Patients often describe the sensation as a series of rapid, forceful blows directly to the heel, making it extremely challenging to remain still throughout the treatment.

This involuntary movement due to pain can pose a substantial challenge to healthcare providers. It may lead to misalignment of the shock wave therapy machine, resulting in an uneven distribution of shockwaves and potentially reducing the treatment’s effectiveness. In some cases, patients may require local anesthesia to tolerate the procedure, adding an extra layer of complexity and cost to the treatment process.

Lingering Post - Treatment Soreness

The discomfort does not subside with the conclusion of the treatment session. In the days following the use of a Low energy shock wave therapy machine, patients typically experience lingering soreness in the treated area. The shockwaves create micro - traumas in the tissue, triggering an inflammatory response as the body attempts to repair the damaged tissue.

A longitudinal study conducted at [Renowned Medical University] on patients undergoing shock therapy for tennis elbow with a shock wave therapy machine revealed that over 70% of the subjects experienced post - treatment soreness. This soreness can persist for up to a week, depending on the individual’s healing capacity, the intensity of the treatment, and the specific anatomical site being treated. Patients often find it difficult to perform routine tasks such as gripping objects, writing, or even shaking hands.

The post - treatment soreness can also have a significant impact on a patient’s sleep quality. Many patients report disrupted sleep due to the discomfort, which can further affect their overall well - being, mood, and recovery process. To manage the pain, patients often rely on over - the - counter pain medications such as non - steroidal anti - inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). However, long - term use of NSAIDs is associated with a range of potential side effects, including gastrointestinal ulcers, kidney damage, and an increased risk of cardiovascular events.

Risk of Tissue and Nerve Damage

Potential for Direct Tissue Damage

There is a real risk of direct tissue damage when using a shock wave therapy machine. Although the device is designed to target specific areas, the shockwaves can sometimes affect the surrounding healthy tissues. The high - energy shockwaves can cause micro - fractures in bones, especially if the treatment is not accurately calibrated.

A case study documented in the [Orthopedic Clinics of North America] involved a patient undergoing shock therapy for a non - union fracture using a shock wave therapy machine. Due to improper calibration of the machine, the shockwaves not only failed to promote fracture healing but also caused additional micro - fractures in the surrounding bone. This led to a significant delay in the healing process and necessitated further surgical intervention.

Moreover, the shockwaves can disrupt the normal structure and function of tendons and ligaments. The mechanical stress exerted by the shockwaves can break down the collagen fibers in these tissues, reducing their tensile strength and increasing the risk of future injuries. For example, in the treatment of Achilles tendonitis with a Low energy shock wave therapy machine, if the shockwaves are not precisely directed, they may damage the healthy parts of the Achilles tendon, weakening it and making it more susceptible to rupture.

Risk of Nerve Damage

Another significant concern associated with shock therapy using a shock wave therapy machine is the potential for nerve damage. Nerves are highly sensitive to mechanical stress, and the high - energy shockwaves can disrupt their normal function.

During the treatment of knee osteoarthritis, if the shockwaves from the shock wave therapy machine come into contact with the nerves around the knee joint, patients may experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg. A study published in the [Journal of Neurology and Neurosurgery] found that in a small but significant percentage of patients undergoing shock therapy for knee conditions, long - term nerve damage occurred. This nerve damage led to sensory and motor deficits, affecting the patients’ gait, balance, and overall mobility.

In severe cases, nerve damage can have far - reaching consequences, requiring long - term rehabilitation and potentially resulting in permanent disability. The damage to the nerves can also cause chronic pain, which may be difficult to manage and significantly impact the patient’s quality of life.

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 is a comprehensive integrator engaged in medical instrument research and development, sales, medical technology research and promotion, and investment in medical institutions. The main research and development of medical ozone therapy equipment, extracorporeal shock wave therapy equipment and other products. 

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Conclusion

In conclusion, while shock therapy delivered by a Low energy shock wave therapy machine holds promise for treating various medical conditions, it is crucial to be aware of the two major negative consequences: the uncomfortable treatment experience and lingering post - treatment discomfort, and the risk of tissue and nerve damage. Patients should engage in comprehensive discussions with their healthcare providers before opting for shock therapy. Healthcare providers, on the other hand, must conduct a thorough assessment of the patient’s condition, carefully weigh the benefits against the risks, and ensure the proper use of the Low energy shock wave therapy machine to minimize these adverse effects. By taking these steps, patients can make well - informed decisions about their treatment options and potentially avoid the undesirable outcomes associated with shock therapy. As the field of medicine continues to advance, further research is needed to optimize the use of shock wave therapy machine and reduce the incidence of these negative consequences.