Offered by our physiotherapists

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy at MSK Québec

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy is an advanced, non-invasive treatment offered at MSK Québec. Our physiotherapists are trained to use this method to effectively treat a variety of pathologies.

Learn More

Procedure

1

Assessment

The initial assessment enables us to ensure that shock wave therapy is the right treatment for you. During this session, your physiotherapist will quantify the mechanical stress in the targeted area. This step is also essential to ensure that we can offer you a suitable exercise program.

2

Treatment

Three to four treatments are performed at one-week intervals. More sessions may be needed if necessary.

3

Follow-up

A new strengthening exercise program will be provided once all sessions have been completed. This program will also include a plan for a safe return to sport.

Therapeutic Effects

  • Pain reduction
  • Improved function in the short, medium and long term

Adverse Effects

  • Mild pain
  • Mild hematoma
  • Local inflammatory reaction (minor redness and/or edema)
  • Temporary mild pain during and/or after treatment

Treated Pathologies

Cost

This procedure is sometimes covered by private insurance. You will receive a physiotherapy receipt after each appointment.

Contraindications

This treatment is not recommended during pregnancy or in areas of bone growth in minors. It is not suitable for people with coagulation disorders, thrombosis, infections, tumors or metastases in the area to be treated.

Patient File

It is important to follow the exercise program provided at your first appointment, as well as your physiotherapist’s recommendations, including:

Details

Frequently Asked Questions

How does extracorporeal shockwave therapy work?

Extracorporeal shockwaves are high-energy mechanical acoustic waves that propagate through body tissue to different depths.

The effect of these waves is to induce trauma at tissue level, leading to an inflammatory process that resets the healing process and tissue remodeling. They also desensitize and modulate pain.

What is the action mechanism of extracorporeal shockwave therapy?
What are the benefits of extracorporeal shockwave therapy?
Is extracorporeal shockwave therapy painful?
When does the pain start to subside?