Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) at HealthSource Chiropractic, PLLC, utilizing the Swiss DolorClast® System, represents one of the most advanced non-invasive treatments for chronic musculoskeletal pain. This system uses acoustic energy to trigger the body's natural healing response in "stagnant" or chronic injuries.
The DolorClast® System Technology
The DolorClast® Method is considered the gold standard in radial shockwave therapy. Unlike older "focused" shockwave systems that may require anesthesia, the DolorClast system used at HealthSource is:
- Radial Pressure Wave: Spreads energy over a larger area, making it ideal for muscle and connective tissue.
- Clinically Proven: It is the most researched shockwave system in the world, with a success rate often cited between 80% and 90% for chronic conditions.
- Mechanotransduction: The device sends high-energy sound waves into the tissue, creating "micro-trauma" that restarts the inflammatory process, increases blood flow (neovascularization), and breaks down scar tissue or calcifications.
Targeted Conditions & Treatment Effects
HealthSource Chiropractic uses this system to address specific, often "stubborn" issues:
| Condition | How Shockwave Helps |
| Plantar Fasciitis | Breaks up scar tissue and heel spurs; stimulates blood flow to the poorly vascularized plantar fascia. |
| Neuropathy | Stimulates nerve endings and promotes the release of growth factors to improve peripheral nerve health and reduce numbness/pain. |
| Golfer’s/Tennis Elbow | Addresses chronic tendinosis at the epicondyle by promoting collagen synthesis and reducing "Substance P" (a pain transmitter). |
| Tendinopathy | Useful for Achilles, patellar, and rotator cuff tendons where traditional blood flow is limited, forcing the body to repair the tendon fibers. |
| Adhesive Capsulitis | Helps break down the "adhesive" scar tissue and calcifications within the shoulder joint capsule to restore range of motion. |
Benefits of the HealthSource Approach
- Non-Surgical: A high-efficacy alternative to cortisone injections or surgery.
- Analgesic Effect: Many patients experience an immediate reduction in pain due to the "over-stimulation" of nerve endings, which resets pain signals.
- Quick Sessions: Most treatments take only 5–15 minutes per area.
- Integration: At HealthSource, shockwave is often combined with Chiropractic Adjustments or Progressive Rehab® to ensure the joint is moving correctly while the soft tissue is healing.
What to Expect
- Frequency: Typically involves 3 to 6 sessions, spaced approximately one week apart.
- Sensation: You will feel a "tapping" or "pulsing" sensation. While it can be slightly uncomfortable, the intensity is adjustable based on your tolerance.
- Downtime: There is zero downtime. Most patients can return to normal daily activities immediately, though heavy exercise is usually discouraged for 24–48 hours post-treatment.