Shockwave Therapy, also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic waves to stimulate healing in musculoskeletal conditions, often for chronic pain or injuries that haven’t responded to traditional treatments. The therapy involves delivering focused shockwaves directly to the affected area, which helps increase blood flow, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue regeneration. Commonly used in treating conditions like plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, tendinitis, and shoulder pain, shockwave therapy can also aid in the rehabilitation of sports injuries.

The Treatment typically takes 15-30 minutes per session and may require multiple sessions, depending on the severity of the condition. Patients often feel minimal discomfort during the procedure. Shockwave therapy is an effective, drug-free option that encourages the body’s natural healing processes, making it appealing to those looking for alternatives to surgery or long-term medication use.

Diagnosing an ankle sprain typically begins with a physical examination by a healthcare professional, who will assess the extent of the injury by examining the range of motion, stability, and areas of tenderness in the ankle. During the exam, the doctor may move the foot in different directions to evaluate the strength of the ligaments and identify any potential tears. A detailed medical history of how the injury occurred can also help the physician determine the severity of the sprain. In some cases, a comparison to the unaffected ankle may be made to assess swelling and bruising differences.

In addition to the physical examination, diagnostic imaging tests may be used to rule out other injuries, such as fractures or dislocations. X-rays are often used to ensure that no bones are broken, especially if the pain is severe or if the individual is unable to bear weight on the affected foot. In more complicated cases, an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) or ultrasound may be ordered to provide a more detailed view of the soft tissues around the ankle, allowing the doctor to assess the extent of ligament damage and any additional injuries to tendons or cartilage.