Innovative Therapies for Pain Management
Jonathan Hall- Mar 10
- 6 min read
Experiencing chronic pain can be debilitating and frustrating, impacting your quality of life. Traditional pain management techniques don't always deliver the expected results, leading many to seek innovative therapies. Among the latest and most promising methods is shockwave therapy, which is gaining recognition for its effectiveness in pain relief and rehabilitation.
At Movement Mechanics, we are committed to providing innovative, evidence-based osteopathic care and shockwave therapy to support proactive medical wellness for New Zealanders. Our approach integrates modern therapeutic modalities with traditional holistic practices, ensuring patients receive personalised care tailored to their unique needs.
Understanding Shockwave Therapy
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that employs acoustic waves to stimulate healing and alleviate pain in musculoskeletal conditions (Extracorporeal shockwave therapy, 2025). Originally developed for lithotripsy to treat kidney stones, ESWT has evolved to address various musculoskeletal disorders by promoting tissue regeneration and reducing pain (Wang et al., 2009). This non-invasive procedure is particularly useful in treating musculoskeletal injuries. It's becoming a go-to option for various conditions, including tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and chronic elbow pain. Patients usually report relatively quick relief and improved mobility post-treatment.
Mechanism of Shockwave Therapy
During a shockwave therapy session, a handheld device generates high-energy shockwaves that penetrate the skin and target underlying tissues. This process triggers several biological responses, including:
Increased Blood Flow: Shockwaves stimulate the formation of new blood vessels, which improves circulation and oxygen delivery to damaged tissues.
Pain Relief: The body's natural pain-relieving mechanisms are activated, including the release of endorphins, which help reduce perceptions of pain.
Collagen Synthesis: ESWT amplifies growth factor release and protein synthesis, leading to increased collagen production, which is essential for tissue healing and remodeling (Ching-Jen, 2012).
Neovascularisation: ESWT stimulates the formation of new blood vessels at the tendon-bone junction, enhancing blood flow and tissue regeneration (Ching-Jen, 2012).
Cellular Response: The therapy promotes the proliferation of tenocytes and differentiation of osteoprogenitor cells, contributing to the repair of tendons and bones (Wang et al., 2009).
These combined effects work synergistically, promoting faster recovery from injuries and easing chronic pain.
What Does a Shockwave Do to Your Body?
When shockwaves are applied to the treatment area, they create micro-traumas in tissues, prompting the body to initiate a healing response. This response involves:
Inflammation Reduction: The initial injuries caused by shockwaves trigger inflammation, which subsequently helps the body to clear out damaged cells and initiate repair processes.
Pain Modulation: Shockwaves can interfere with pain signaling pathways. They essentially "reset" the nervous system in the affected area, reducing the intensity of the pain the patient feels.
Increased Mobility: As inflammation decreases and tissues heal, patients often notice improved mobility and flexibility in the affected areas, allowing them to return to normal activities more quickly.
By understanding these processes, patients can appreciate why shockwave therapy is a powerful option for managing chronic pain.
Conditions Treated with Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy has been proven effective in treating various conditions, particularly those related to musculoskeletal pain. Some common conditions include:
Plantar Fasciitis: ESWT is effective in treating chronic plantar fasciitis, providing significant pain relief and functional improvement (Plantar fasciitis, 2024).
Calcific Tendinitis of the Shoulder: ESWT has been shown to be effective in treating calcific tendinitis, reducing pain and improving shoulder function (Wang et al., 2009).
Achilles Tendinopathy: ESWT has shown promise in reducing pain and improving function in individuals with Achilles tendinopathy (Extracorporeal shockwave therapy, 2025).
Patients often choose shockwave therapy because it can deliver results faster than traditional options, such as physical therapy or medications.
The Benefits of Non-Invasive Treatment Options
One of shockwave therapy's most significant advantages is that it is noninvasive. Unlike surgeries or injections, which come with various risks and lengthy recovery times, shockwave therapy typically has minimal side effects.
Quick Recovery: Most patients can resume everyday activities immediately after treatment. There are generally no downtime or extensive rehabilitation requirements.
Non-Invasive Treatment: ESWT is a non-surgical procedure, reducing the risks associated with invasive interventions (Wang et al., 2009).
Minimal Recovery Time: Patients can typically resume daily activities shortly after treatment, with minimal downtime (Ching-Jen, 2012).
Reduced Dependence on Medications: By addressing the underlying causes of pain, ESWT may decrease the need for pain-relief medications (Plantar fasciitis, 2024).
No Need for Anesthesia: The procedure is relatively painless, requiring only a topical anesthetic if the patient is anxious about discomfort.
Cost-Effective: Compared to surgical options, shockwave therapy can be more affordable in the long run.
Additionally, shockwave therapy can be combined with other treatments, such as physical therapy and medication, to enhance overall effectiveness.
What to Expect During a Shockwave Therapy Session
When visiting a clinic for shockwave therapy, patients can expect the following steps:
Assessment: A healthcare professional will thoroughly assess your condition to determine if shockwave therapy is appropriate.
Preparation: The treatment area is cleaned, and a conductive gel may be applied to improve wave transmission.
Treatment: The handheld device is placed on the targeted area, and shockwaves are delivered. Most sessions last between 10 to 20 minutes.
Post-Treatment: After the session, patients are often advised to rest the treated area for a short period. Some experience slight soreness afterward but can usually return to normal activities right away.
With each session, the positive outcomes increase, putting patients on a path to a pain-free life.
The Future of Pain Management
Shockwave therapy is just one of many innovative therapies available for pain management. Other treatments showing promise include:
Cryotherapy: This therapy uses extreme cold to numb tissue and reduce inflammation.
Acupuncture: An ancient practice that relieves pain through specific pressure points in the body.
Dry Needling: Uses a thin needle to target muscle trigger points, promoting healing.
As medical technology continues to evolve, combining these therapies may provide even better outcomes for patients suffering from chronic pain.
Our Commitment to Your Health - Start Living Pain-Free
At Movement Mechanics, we prioritise proactive wellness and sustainable health outcomes. Our considered and genuine approach ensures that each treatment plan is thoughtfully developed, focusing on long-term benefits and empowering patients to take ownership of their health. By integrating ESWT into our osteopathic services, we offer advanced, evidence-based therapies that align with our vision of modern medical wellness.
Investing in your health is a fulfilling journey. Our clinic provides a setting that not only promotes healing but also inspires and motivates you to maintain optimal health. We believe in creating an environment where you feel informed, empowered, and confident in the care you receive, reinforcing a sustainable, long-term mindset towards health and wellness.
Experience the benefits of innovative therapies in a clinic that embodies the future of proactive medical wellness. At Movement Mechanics, your health is our priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
If you're struggling with chronic pain, consider exploring innovative therapies like shockwave therapy. With its growing body of evidence and successful case studies, this treatment could be a game-changer for you. Take action by researching healthcare providers experienced in shockwave therapy to see if it’s the right fit for your needs. Don't let pain control your life—discover new approaches to regain your freedom and enjoy life to the fullest.
Jonathan Hall M.Ost, BAppSci (Human Biology), PGCertHSc (Acupuncture), GradDipHeal
Jonathan Hall is the founder and principal Osteopath at Movement Mechanics Osteopathy. Jonathan specialises in Shockwave Therapy and Western medical acupuncture. A fully qualified Osteopath registered with OCNZ, PNZ, PAANZ and ACC, Jonathan also founded Auckland Shockwave Therapy to help bring evidence-based Shockwave treatment to New Zealand using the industry-leading EMS Radial Shock Wave device.
Contact Us: hello@movementmechanics.nz
References
Ching-Jen, W. (2012). Extracorporeal shockwave therapy in musculoskeletal disorders. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, 7(1), 11. https://doi.org/10.1186/1749-799X-7-11
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy. (2025, February 10). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Extracorporeal_shockwave_therapy
Plantar fasciitis. (2024, December 15). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plantar_fasciitis
Wang, C. J., Ko, J. Y., Chan, Y. S., Weng, L. H., & Hsu, S. L. (2009). Extracorporeal shockwave for chronic patellar tendinopathy. The American Journal of Sports Medicine, 35(6), 972–978. https://doi.org/10.1177/0363546507299257
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
© Movement Mechanics Osteopathy Auckland 2025. All rights reserved.
For more information on the benefits of shockwave therapy, visit specialised clinics or consult with healthcare professionals who can guide you on your journey towards pain relief.
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