R Tyler Johnson Chiropractic

at Peak Recovery-San Clemente

83 Via Pico Plaza
San Clemente, CA 97672
Appointments: (949) 436-6440

Exploring the Mechanics of Radial Shockwave Therapy

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In the realm of modern medicine, various innovative techniques continue to emerge, providing new avenues for non-invasive treatment. One such method gaining prominence is Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT). Utilized in various medical fields, from orthopedics to sports medicine, RSWT is a promising technique that harnesses the power of shockwaves to promote healing and alleviate pain. In this blog post, we will delve into the mechanics of Radial Shockwave Therapy, exploring its principles, applications, and benefits.

Understanding Radial Shockwave Therapy

Radial Shockwave Therapy is a non-invasive procedure that employs acoustic shockwaves to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. These shockwaves are high-energy sound waves that carry kinetic energy and are transmitted to the targeted area of the body through a specialized device. RSWT is often used to treat musculoskeletal conditions, including tendon and ligament injuries, plantar fasciitis, calcific shoulder tendinopathy, and more.

The Mechanics Behind RSWT

  1. Stimulation of Blood Flow: RSWT works by enhancing blood flow to the injured area. When shockwaves are applied, they create microtrauma within the tissues, prompting the body to respond with increased blood circulation. This improved circulation brings essential nutrients and oxygen to the affected area, supporting the body’s natural healing processes.
  2. Stimulation of Collagen Production: Collagen is a crucial protein that aids in tissue repair and regeneration. RSWT stimulates the production of collagen fibers, which helps in strengthening and healing damaged tissues, particularly tendons and ligaments.
  3. Pain Reduction: RSWT also influences the nervous system. The shockwaves can interfere with pain signals, providing a temporary analgesic effect. Additionally, the treatment triggers the release of endorphins – the body’s natural painkillers – leading to a reduction in pain and discomfort.
  4. Resorption of scar tissue: Scar tissue is often a problem in chronic conditions, as it can restrict movement and cause pain. RSWT can help to break up scar tissue and improve range of motion.

The RSWT Procedure

During a Radial Shockwave Therapy session, a healthcare professional will apply a gel to the targeted area to enhance the transmission of shockwaves. The shockwave device, often resembling a handheld tool, is then placed on the skin. The device releases controlled shockwaves that penetrate the tissues. The patient might experience mild discomfort during the procedure, but it is generally well-tolerated and brief, lasting about 15-20 minutes per session.

Benefits of RSWT

  1. Non-Invasiveness: One of the key advantages of RSWT is its non-invasive nature. It offers an alternative to surgical interventions and lengthy recovery periods.
  2. Faster Healing: By promoting blood flow, collagen production, and tissue regeneration, RSWT accelerates the healing process, allowing patients to return to their regular activities sooner.
  3. Pain Relief: RSWT provides both immediate and long-term pain relief by reducing inflammation and interfering with pain signals.
  4. Minimal Side Effects: The side effects of RSWT are generally minimal. Some patients might experience slight soreness, redness, or bruising in the treated area, but these effects are usually temporary.

Conclusion

Radial Shockwave Therapy represents a remarkable advancement in the field of non-invasive medical treatments. Its ability to harness the power of shockwaves to stimulate healing processes, enhance blood circulation, and reduce pain makes it a valuable option for individuals seeking relief from musculoskeletal conditions. As medical research continues to expand, we can expect further insights into the potential applications and benefits of this innovative therapy. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional to determine if Radial Shockwave Therapy is the right approach for your specific condition.

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10 Benefits of Red Light Therapy

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In recent years, the field of wellness and health has witnessed an impressive surge in the popularity of alternative therapies. Among these, red light therapy stands out as a groundbreaking innovation that has garnered attention for its myriad benefits. From promoting skin rejuvenation to aiding muscle recovery, this non-invasive treatment is redefining the way we approach well-being. Let’s delve into the many advantages that red light therapy offers:

1. Skin Rejuvenation: Red light therapy has gained acclaim for its ability to rejuvenate the skin. By stimulating collagen production, it helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and blemishes, resulting in smoother and more youthful-looking skin. The therapy also aids in improving skin tone and texture, making it a popular choice for those seeking a non-surgical approach to skincare.

2. Wound Healing: The therapeutic potential of red light doesn’t stop at cosmetic benefits. Studies have shown that red light therapy can accelerate wound healing by promoting cell growth and increasing blood circulation to the affected area. This makes it valuable for treating minor burns, cuts, and other skin injuries.

3. Pain Management: Individuals suffering from chronic pain conditions have found relief through red light therapy. The therapy’s anti-inflammatory properties help reduce pain and stiffness in joints, muscles, and other tissues. It’s often used to alleviate discomfort caused by arthritis, fibromyalgia, and sports-related injuries.

4. Muscle Recovery: Athletes and fitness enthusiasts have embraced red light therapy as a means to enhance muscle recovery. The therapy aids in reducing muscle fatigue and inflammation, allowing for quicker healing and less downtime between workouts. This can lead to improved athletic performance and reduced risk of overuse injuries.

5. Mood Enhancement: Emerging research suggests that red light therapy may have a positive impact on mood and mental well-being. Exposure to red light is believed to stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals. As a result, the therapy might be effective in alleviating symptoms of mild depression and anxiety.

6. Hair Regrowth: For individuals experiencing hair loss, red light therapy presents a promising avenue for hair regrowth. The therapy is thought to stimulate hair follicles, leading to increased hair thickness and density. While results can vary, some users report noticeable improvements in their hair quality and growth.

7. Improved Sleep Quality: The calming effects of red light therapy extend to sleep quality. Exposure to red light in the evening can help regulate the body’s natural circadian rhythm, leading to improved sleep patterns. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who struggle with insomnia or disrupted sleep schedules.

8. Enhanced Cellular Function: At a cellular level, red light therapy appears to enhance mitochondrial function. Mitochondria are the powerhouses of cells, responsible for producing energy. By improving mitochondrial efficiency, red light therapy may contribute to overall cellular health and resilience.

9. Skin Conditions: Beyond cosmetic benefits, red light therapy has shown promise in treating certain skin conditions such as acne and psoriasis. Its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to promote healing make it a potential adjunctive treatment for managing these conditions.

10. Non-Invasive Nature: One of the most appealing aspects of red light therapy is its non-invasive nature. Unlike surgical procedures or certain medications, this therapy doesn’t require incisions, injections, or recovery time. Users can experience its benefits without significant discomfort or side effects.

Incorporating red light therapy into your wellness routine may lead to a range of remarkable benefits, from radiant skin to improved mood and enhanced physical performance. As with any treatment, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting red light therapy, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or are taking medications. With its growing popularity and an increasing body of research, red light therapy is undoubtedly shedding light on a new era of holistic health and well-being.

Mayo Clinic Article: The evolving use of extracorporeal shock wave therapy in managing musculoskeletal and neurological diagnoses

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Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) is the transcutaneous application of high-energy acoustic waves to break down tissue or to promote healing and repair. Focused ESWT involves the application of acoustic waves transmitted in a narrow or focused pattern. First used in the early 1980s, this type of ESWT emerged as a noninvasive treatment known as lithotripsy to eliminate kidney stones. In the decades that followed the advent of lithotripsy, researchers began to examine other potential clinical applications for focused ESWT and another form of shock wave therapy known as radial ESWT. In contrast to focused ESWT, radial ESWT acoustic waves are transmitted in a more diffuse, radial pattern.

As interest in these modalities grew, researchers began exploring their therapeutic potential. During the 1990s and early 2000s, numerous research teams shared findings suggesting that ESWT could be used as a therapeutic tool. Researchers demonstrated the use of ESWT to reduce pain and promote healing in bone, tendon, ligament and fascia in patients with musculoskeletal disorders, and to reduce spasticity in patients with neurological disorders.

In this article, Michael C. Wainberg, M.D., discusses the potential uses of ESWT for patients in the physical medicine and rehabilitation setting. Dr. Wainberg is a physiatrist at Mayo Clinic’s campus in Rochester, Minnesota. His research interests include musculoskeletal disorders and spasticity.

“The interest in ESWT among physiatrists is expanding rapidly,” notes Dr. Wainberg. “Our colleagues at Mayo Clinic Sports Medicine Center in Minneapolis are currently using radial shock wave therapy to treat patients with musculoskeletal disorders, and physiatrists at Mayo Clinic’s campus in Rochester, Minnesota, are providing this treatment to patients with musculoskeletal and neurological disorders as well,” Dr. Wainberg. “Radial ESWT is currently being used as a therapeutic tool to promote healing and reduce pain in patients with a variety of musculoskeletal and neurological diagnoses. We are seeing a role for it in treating tendinopathies and in promoting healing in bone defects and fractures, both delayed and nonunion.”

How radial ESWT works

Compressed air accelerates a projectile up to 80 to 90 kph within a guiding tube that strikes a metal applicator placed on the patient’s skin. The kinetic energy is converted into a radial shock wave. The projectile generates stress waves in the applicator that transmit pressure waves into tissue to a depth of 4 to 5 cm.

The evolving list of diagnoses for which ESWT shows potential includes:

  • Shoulder tendinopathy
  • Lateral epicondylosis*/epicondylitis
  • Greater trochanteric pain syndrome
  • Hamstring tendinopathy
  • Patellar tendinopathy
  • Medial tibial stress syndrome
  • Achilles tendinopathy
  • Plantar fasciitis*
  • Knee osteoarthritis
  • Fracture nonunion
  • Spasticity of spinal and supraspinal origin (stroke, brain injury, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy)

Dr. Wainberg notes that multiple published studies have examined the use of ESWT in patients with musculoskeletal disorders and spasticity related to neurological diagnoses. A study published in Europa Medicophysica in March 2005 concluded that patients with lateral epicondylitis refractory to conservative care who were treated with radial ESWT experienced a decrease in pain and functional impairment and an increase in the pain-free grip strength test. A study published in the November 2017 issue of the Journal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases demonstrated encouraging results when testing the use of ESWT in patients with spasticity related to stroke. ESWT also reduced spasticity related to multiple sclerosis according to studies published in Multiple Sclerosis Journal in April 2015 and Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in November 2018.

“Thus far, the available data for ESWT are promising,” says Dr. Wainberg. “Further studies are needed to identify the mechanism or mechanisms of action, optimal shock wave characteristics and appropriate dosing for this form of treatment. That research will help define treatment protocols and guidelines for target populations.”

Adverse events and contraindications

According to Dr. Wainberg, the list of adverse effects (AEs) associated with ESWT is fairly short. Mild AEs include transient discomfort, skin erythema and localized swelling. More-severe but exceptionally rare AEs include Achilles tendon rupture, humeral head osteonecrosis (after focused ESWT) and calcaneal stress-type fracture (presumed after focused ESWT).

Contraindications or situations in which ESWT may be inappropriate include:

  • Treatment over air-filled tissue (lung, gut)
  • Pregnancy
  • Presence of local tumor or infection
  • Less than six weeks since local corticosteroid injection
  • Age less than 18 (except for patients diagnosed with Osgood-Schlatter disease)
  • Treatment of pre-ruptured tendons
  • Blood-clotting disorders, including local thrombosis

For more information

Spacca G, et al. Radial shock wave therapy for lateral epicondylitis: A prospective randomised controlled single-blind study. Europa Medicophysica. 2005;41:17.

Guo P, et al. Positive effects of extracorporeal shock wave therapy on spasticity in poststroke patients: A meta-analysis. Journal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases. 2017;26:2470.

Marinelli L, et al. Effect of radial shock wave therapy on pain and muscle hypertonia: A double-blind study in patients with multiple sclerosis. Multiple Sclerosis Journal. 2015;2:622.

Wu Y-T, et al. Extracorporeal shock waves versus botulinum toxin type A in the treatment of poststroke upper limb spasticity: A randomized noninferiority trial. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. 2018;99:2143.

Relieving the Freeze: How Shockwave Therapy Helps Frozen Shoulder

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Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a debilitating condition that affects the shoulder joint, causing pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. It can significantly impair daily activities and decrease the quality of life for those afflicted. While there are various treatment options available, one emerging therapy that has shown promising results is shockwave therapy. In this blog post, we’ll delve into what frozen shoulder is, the benefits of shockwave therapy, and how it can effectively help alleviate the symptoms of this condition.

Understanding Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder is a condition characterized by the thickening and tightening of the shoulder joint capsule, a protective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint. This leads to a significant decrease in the joint’s lubrication and mobility, causing pain and stiffness. The condition typically progresses through three stages: the freezing stage (painful inflammation), the frozen stage (limited mobility), and the thawing stage (gradual recovery).

Conventional Treatment Options

Traditionally, treatment for frozen shoulder includes physical therapy, pain relief medications, corticosteroid injections, and in some cases, manipulation under anesthesia. While these methods can provide some relief, they may not always address the root cause of the condition, and the recovery process can be lengthy.

Shockwave Therapy: How Does it Work?

Shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive medical procedure that uses high-energy shockwaves to stimulate healing and tissue regeneration. This therapy was initially developed to break down kidney stones, but its applications have expanded to treat various musculoskeletal conditions, including frozen shoulder.

The shockwaves are generated by a device and are directed towards the affected area. When these shockwaves penetrate the tissues, they stimulate blood circulation and metabolic activity, promoting tissue repair and reducing inflammation. Shockwave therapy also triggers the release of growth factors and stimulates the production of collagen, a crucial component in joint health.

Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Frozen Shoulder

  1. Non-Invasive: Shockwave therapy is non-surgical and non-invasive, meaning there is no need for incisions or anesthesia. Patients can avoid the risks associated with surgery and experience minimal discomfort during the procedure.
  2. Pain Relief: The high-energy shockwaves stimulate the body’s natural pain-relieving mechanisms, reducing pain and discomfort associated with frozen shoulder.
  3. Improved Blood Circulation: Shockwave therapy enhances blood flow to the affected area, promoting faster healing and tissue regeneration.
  4. Increased Mobility: By breaking down scar tissue and adhesions within the shoulder joint capsule, shockwave therapy helps improve joint flexibility and range of motion.
  5. Accelerated Healing: The therapy stimulates the body’s healing response, leading to faster recovery times compared to traditional treatments.
  6. No Downtime: Unlike surgery, shockwave therapy requires little to no downtime. Patients can often resume their regular activities shortly after the procedure.
  7. Long-Term Benefits: Shockwave therapy not only provides immediate relief but also fosters long-term healing and improves the overall health of the shoulder joint.

Conclusion

Frozen shoulder can be a challenging and painful condition to endure, but emerging treatments like shockwave therapy offer hope for effective relief and recovery. By stimulating tissue regeneration, reducing inflammation, and improving blood circulation, shockwave therapy has proven to be a valuable and non-invasive treatment option for frozen shoulder. If you or someone you know is suffering from frozen shoulder, consider discussing the potential benefits of shockwave therapy with Dr. Johnson to pave the way for a smoother and pain-free recovery

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10 Things Most People Don’t Know About Chiropractic

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1. Pain is the last symptom of dysfunction.

A patient’s back is often restricted or unstable for months or years before it presents as a problem and they show up in a chiropractor’s office. In addition, the absence of pain is not health. While medication may be needed, if you take a pill and the pain goes away, the dysfunction that caused it still persists. Muscle, ligament and joint injuries often occur as a result of long-term biomechanical dysfunction, sometimes from past injuries, making the area more susceptible to future injury.
2. Athletes use chiropractors to stay well and perform better, not just for the occasional injury.Athletes choose chiropractors because we are movement specialists. Chiropractors were spotted all over the Olympic coverage last year, and top athletes such as Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods, Michael Phelps, Tom Brady, Evander Holyfield, and Arnold Schwarzenegger have all been proud patients of chiropractors. These days it’s far more common than not for major athletes and sports teams to keep chiropractors nearby to help prevent injuries, speed injury recovery, improve balance and coordination, and give them a greater competitive edge.3. The body does not perform as a cluster of separate mechanisms, but rather a cascade of events that all starts with proper control by the nervous system.The nerves that travel through and control every function of your body originate at the spinal cord and their transmission may be disrupted if the joints of the surrounding spinal column are not moving properly. This disruption in biomechanical integrity combined with altered physiological function is what chiropractors call a subluxation. Below is a chart that illustrates the relationship of the spinal nerves exiting the vertebra branching off to the various organ systems. You can see why it is not uncommon for a chiropractor to treat a patient with mid-back pain who also suffers from irritable bowel system, a patient with a subluxated sacrum who has been unsuccessfully trying to become pregnant, or a patient with an upper back fixation and acid reflux.

10 Things Most People Dont Know About Chiropractic

4. Doctors don’t do the healing.

Sorry to disappoint you, but a chiropractor will never fix your back. What we are able to do is restore proper motion in the joints, which relieves tension on the nerves and muscles and allows your body to do the healing that it is inherently made to do. As chiropractors, we believe that the body is a perfect organism in its natural state, and all disease comes from a disruption in the body’s proper transmission of signals by the nerves which affects its ability to heal and to defend against disease-causing agents. We never treat disease. We assess to find which spinal levels are causing the disfunction, and we adjust it to restore proper nerve flow so the nervous system may work as efficiently and effectively as possible.

5. Chiropractic is for all ages.

Many seniors aren’t aware of the benefits of chiropractic care which can help them not only with pain relief, but also increase range of motion, balance and coordination, and decrease joint degeneration. There’s no patient too young for chiropractic either! Chiropractors check infants moments after birth for misalignments of the upper vertebrae that may occur as a result of the birth process. In addition to supporting overall health and well-being, parents also take their children to chiropractors to encourage healthy brain and nervous system development, to assist with colic, asthma, allergies, bed-wetting and sleeping problems, and to assist with behavioral disorders.

6. We know about more than your backbone!

This surprises many people who had no idea that chiropractors give advice on nutrition, fitness, ergonomics and lifestyle, screen for conditions unrelated to the musculoskeletal system and refer out to other practitioners when necessary. Chiropractors are also able to complete specialties in other areas such as pediatrics, sports rehabilitation, neurology, clinical nutrition, and addictions and compulsive disorders.

Other than particular specialties and the differences in learning to adjust and learning to prescribe medication, our training hours are not dissimilar from that of medical doctor. The following are the classroom hours for basic science requirements compiled and averaged following a review of curricula of 18 chiropractic schools and 22 medical schools.

10 Things Most People Dont Know About Chiropractic

7. Successful chiropractic patients accept responsibility.

When somebody says that they tried chiropractic and it didn’t help, I cringe and get the feeling that they really missed the boat. Of course, there are cases with complicating factors, but I have heard this from people with straightforward chiropractic problems when it is very clear what has happened here. In most cases, one doesn’t acquire back pain over night, and it’s not going to go away over night. If a weak core from years of sitting at your desk is to blame for the additional stress on your joints, I would expect an adjustment to provide relief, but once the condition is no longer exacerbated, I would most definitely prescribe some exercises for you to do at home. I might also suggest we evaluate your nutrition if I suspect an inflammatory diet may be wiring you for pain. Sure, I’m always happy to adjust someone and make a living, but if you’ve been given homework and you don’t do it, I better not hear you say chiropractic didn’t work when you’re hurting again!

8. Chiropractic may help you get sick less.

Studies have indicated that adjustments consistently reduce the production of pro-inflammatory mediators associated with tissue damage and pain, and may also enhance the production of immunoregulatory complexes important for healthy immune system defense. As far back as the deadly flu pandemic of 1917-1918, chiropractors noticed that their patients seemed to have fewer fatalities than among the general population and were able to publish their work in an osteopathic journal since no scholarly journals were accepting chiropractic data. The estimated death rate among patients of conventional medical care in the U.S. was estimated at 5 to 6 percent while the fatality rate among influenza cases receiving spinal adjustments was estimated at 0.25%.

9. “I heard I’ll have to go forever” is a myth.

You may want to go to your chiropractor forever once you’ve started because you didn’t realize how great getting adjusted is, but your doctor won’t expect you to come for continuous care without symptoms. Generally, if you come in with pain, once you’ve been treated for your initial complaint, you’ll be scheduled for a few more appointments to make sure proper motion is being maintained, then it will be recommended you return occasionally to be checked just like you would go to the dentist to get checked for tartar buildup and cavities. Of course, many people still choose to see their chiropractor weekly or monthly for wellness or maintenance care.

10. Adjustments don’t hurt.

There is no bone snapping or warrior-style pulling heads off spinal columns! The neck adjustment some chiropractors use causes anticipation for many new patients, but is actually much more gentle than they imagined, and involves a quick, direct thrust to a specific spinal bone. The sound an adjustment makes is called a cavitation and is only space being created within the joint causing gasses to be released from the joint capsule, which creates the popping or cracking noise. Also, chiropractic adjustments will not wear out your joints, as some imagine because they have been warned not to “crack their knuckles” for this reason in the past. Adjustments, unlike “knuckle cracking” or having your friend stomp on you while you lay on the carpet, are applied specifically to improve the motion of your joints and limit the small dysfunctions that over time can lead to arthritis. Most people after an adjustment describe the feeling as being “lighter”, having greater ease in moving the body, and being able to stand up taller.

Resources:

http://www.yourmedicaldetective.com/drgrisanti/mddc.htm

http://www.dynamicchiropractic.com/mpacms/dc/article.php?id=9485

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