Radial Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave Treatment for
Chronic Pain in Pasadena

Introduction to Radial Shockwave Therapy

Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) is one of the most innovative and effective noninvasive treatments available for chronic musculoskeletal conditions. At Ne-Plus Ultra Chiropractic in Pasadena, California, Dr. Lamar Baddley offers this advanced therapeutic option as part of his comprehensive pain management and tissue healing approach.

RSWT utilizes acoustic pressure waves that are transmitted through the skin and spread radially into the body’s tissues. These high-energy sound waves stimulate healing processes in bones, tendons, and other soft tissues by increasing metabolic activity and blood circulation in the affected area. This technology has revolutionized the treatment of many chronic conditions that previously had limited non-surgical options.

As a chiropractor committed to providing the most effective evidence-based treatments, Dr.  Baddley has incorporated radial shockwave therapy into his practice to offer patients advanced care for persistent conditions that haven’t responded adequately to conventional approaches. This cutting-edge treatment complements traditional chiropractic techniques, providing a more comprehensive path to recovery and pain relief.

Pasadena Chiropractic client

Radial Shockwave Therapy Services

Detailed Explanation of Treatment Procedures

How Radial Shockwave Therapy Works

Radial Shockwave Therapy operates on several therapeutic principles:
This multidimensional assessment allows us to identify the root causes of your pain and develop a targeted treatment approach.
  • Mechanical Stimulation

    The acoustic waves create microtrauma in the af fected tissues, which triggers the body's natural healing response.

  • Increased Blood Flow

    The treatment stimulates neovascularization (formation of new blood vessels), enhancing blood supply and nutrient delivery to the injured area.

  • Pain Modulation

    RSWT affects pain receptors, reducing their sensitivity and interrupting pain signals to the brain.

  • Cellular Regeneration

    The therapy activates stem cells and growth factors that promote tissue repair and regeneration.

  • Breaking Down Calcifica tions

    The pressure waves can help disintegrate calcium deposits in tendons and other soft tissues.

The Treatment Experience

When you receive Radial Shockwave Therapy at Ne Plus Ultra Chiropractic, you can expect:

  • Detailed pain history assessment (location, intensity, duration, aggravating and relieving factors)

  • Comprehensive physical examination focusing on movement patterns and functional limitations

  • Neurological and orthopedic testing

  • Postural and gait analysis

  • Review of previous treatments and their effectiveness

  • Assessment of how pain impacts your daily activities and quality of life

Therapeutic Modalities

We utilize various therapeutic modalities as part of our comprehensive pain management approach:
  • Therapeutic Ultrasound

    sound waves to generate deep heat in tissues, promoting healing and reducing pain

  • Electrical Stimulation

    including TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) and Interferential current to reduce pain signals and promote tissue healing

  • Therapeutic Exercise

    customized exercise programs designed to strengthen the supporting muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance function.

  • Heat and Cold Therapy

    Strategic application of thermal modalities to reduce inflammation, muscle spasm, and pain

Integrative Pain Management Strategies

Our approach to pain management extends beyond traditional chiropractic techniques to include:
  • Lifestyle Modification Counseling

    Guidance on ergonomics, sleep positioning, and activity modification to reduce pain triggers

  • Nutritional Guidance

    Recommendations for anti-inflammatory diets and supplements That may help reduce pain and inflammation

  • Stress Management Techniques

    Tools to address the psychological aspects of chronic pain, including relaxation techniques and mindfulness practices

  • Patient Education

    empowering you with knowledge about your condition and self-management strategies

Benefits and Expected Outcomes

Our comprehensive pain management services offer numerous benefits:

Effective Pain Relief

  • Reduction in both acute and chronic pain intensity

  • Decreased frequency and duration of pain episodes

  • Diminished need for pain medications

  • Relief from radiating pain and associated symptoms

Improved Function and Mobility

  • Enhanced ability to perform daily activities

  • Increased range of motion and flexibility

  • Improved strength and endurance

  • Better coordination and balance

Long - term Management Strategies

  • Development of self - management skills for ongoing pain control

  • Identification and modification of pain triggers

  • Strategies to prevent pain recurrence

  • Tools to manage flare - ups effectively

Enhanced Quality of Life

  • Improved sleep quality

  • Reduced anxiety and stress related to pain

  • Increased ability to participate in social and recreational activities

  • Greater overall sense of well - being and life satisfaction

Conditions We Treat

At Ne – Plus Ultra Chiropractic, our pain management services address a wide range of conditions:
  • Neck Pain

    From poor posture, tech neck, whiplash, or degenerative changes

  • Back Pain

    including lower back pain, mid-back pain and pain related to disc issues

  • Shoulder Pain

    Rotator cuff issues, frozen shoulder, and impingement syndromes

  • Knee Pain

    Osteoarthritis, patellofemoral pain, and ligament strains

  • Sciatica

    pain, numbness, or tingling radiating down the leg

  • Sports Injuries

    including sprains, strains, and overuse injuries

  • Auto and Personal Injuries

    Whiplash and other trauma- related pain

  • Headaches and Migraines

    Tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches, and migraine management

  • Arthritis Pain

    Osteoarthritis and inflammatory arthritis pain management

  • Work - Related Injuries

    Repetitive strain injuries and ergonomic- related pain

The Treatment Experience

When you receive Radial Shockwave Therapy at Ne-Plus Ultra Chiropractic, you can expect:

Pre - Treatment Assessment

  • Comprehensive evaluation to determine if RSWT is appropriate for your condition

  • Explanation of the procedure, expected outcomes, and treatment plan

  • Identification of the specific target areas for treatment

Treatment Setup

  • You'll be positioned comforta bly, with the treatment area exposed

  • A special gel is applied to the skin to improve the transmission of the shock waves

  • The treatment handpiece is positioned over the affected area

The Procedure

  • The RSWT device delivers acoustic pressure waves to the targeted tissues

  • Treatment typically lasts 5 - 15 minutes per area

  • You'll feel a tapping sensation and pressure during the procedure

  • The intensity is adjusted based on your comfort level and therapeutic needs

  • The treatment is generally well - tolerated, thoug h some temporary discomfort may occur

Post - Treatment

  • No special recovery period is needed; you can resume normal activities immediately

  • Temporary increased blood flow may cause redness in the treated area

  • Some patients experience mild soreness for 24 - 48 hours, similar to post - exercise muscle soreness

  • Specific post - treatment recommendations may be provided based on your condition

Treatment Protocol

Most conditions require a series of treatments for optimal results:

  • Typically 3 - 6 sessions, spaced 7 - 10 days apart

  • Each session builds upon the healing initiated in previous treatments

  • Progress is evaluated throughout the treatment course

  • Additional sessions may be recommended for complex or chronic conditions

  • Maintenance treatments may be beneficial for so me conditions

Soft Tissue Rehabilitation

Targeted techniques to address damaged muscles and connective tissues:

  • Myofascial release for muscle tension and adhesions

  • Trigger point therapy for pain reduction

  • Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization

  • Therapeutic stretching and muscle energy techniques

  • Cross-friction massage for proper tissue healing

Conditions Treated with Radial Shockwave Therapy

Radial Shockwave Therapy has proven effective for various musculoskeletal conditions, particularly those involving chronic inflammation, calcification, or tissue degeneration. At Ne-Plus Ultra Chiropractic, Dr. Baddley successfully uses RSWT to treat:

Tendon Disorders

Plantar Fasciitis

  • Inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot

  • Often causes intense heel pain, especially with first steps in the morning

  • RSWT has shown 70 - 80% success rates in clinical studies for this condition

Achilles Tendinopathy

  • Degeneration or inflammation of the Achilles tendon

  • Creates pain and stiffness at the back of the ankle

  • Responds well to shockwave therapy, particularly in chronic cases

tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

  • Painful condition affecting the tendons that attach to the outer elbow

  • Often results from repetitive wrist and arm movements

  • RSWT can significantly reduce pain and improve function

Golfer's Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)

  • Similar to tennis elbow but affects the inner elbow

  • Causes pain that may radiate into the forearm

  • Shockwave therapy helps break the cycle of chronic inflammation

Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy

  • Affects the tendons in the shoulder, causing pain and limited mobility

  • Often develops gradually from repetitive overhead activities

  • RSWT can help restore function and reduce pain

Joint and Bone Conditions

Calcific Shoulder Tendinitis

  • Calcium deposits form in the rotator cuff tendons

  • Creates significant pain and restricted movement

  • Shockwave therapy can help break down these deposits

Hip Pain

  • Including trochanteric bursitis and gluteal tendinopathy

  • Often causes lateral hip pain that worsens with activity

  • Responds well to the tissue - regenerating effects of RSWT

Knee Osteoarthritis

  • Degenerative joint disease causing pain, stiffness, and reduced function

  • RSWT can help manage symptoms and improve mobility

  • May delay the need for more invasive interventions

Stress Fractures

  • Tiny cracks in bones caused by repetitive force or overuse

  • Shockwave therapy can stimulate bone healing

  • Particularly effective for fractures that are slow to heal

Myofascial Pain Syndromes

Trigger Points

  • Hyperirritable spots in muscle tissue that cause referred pain

  • RSWT can help release these points and restore normal muscle function

  • Effective for chronic myofascial pain that hasn't responded to other treatments

Chronic Neck and Back Pain

  • When related to muscle tension and fascial restrictions

  • Shockwave therapy can address both superficial and deep tissue dysfunction

  • Complements spinal adjustments for more complete pain relief

Expected Outcomes and

Benefits of Treatment

Radial Shockwave Therapy offers numerous advantages and positive outcomes for patients:

Clinical Benefits

  • Non - Invasive Treatment

    No incisions, injections, or anesthesia required

  • Minimal Side Effects

    ow risk compared to surgery or long - term medication use

  • Targeted Therapy

    Precisely addresses the source of pain

  • Cumulative Healing

    Each session builds upon previous treatment effects

  • Complementary Approach

    Works well with other chiropractic and rehabilitative techniques

Pain Relief Benefits

  • Rapid Symptom Improvement

    Many patients experience some relief after the first session

  • Long - Term Pain Reduction

    Addresses underlying causes rather than just masking symptoms

  • Decreased Medication Need

    May reduce or eliminate the need for pain medications

  • Breaking the Pain Cycle

    Helps interrupt chronic pain patterns

  • Improved Sleep Quality

    Less pain interference with rest and recovery

Functional Improvements

  • Increased Mobility Fuction:

    Better range of motion in affected joints

  • Enhanced Strength

    Improved muscle function as pain decreases

  • Return t o Activities

    Ability to resume work, sports, and daily tasks

  • Improved Quality of Life

    Greater participation in meaningful activities

  • Sustained Results

    Benefits that continue after the treatment series is complete

Tissue Healing Benefits

  • Accelerated Recovery

    Stimulation of the body's natural healing mechanisms

  • Improved Circulation

    Enhanced blood flow to damaged tissues

  • Reduced Inflammation

    Decreased chronic inflammatory processes

  • Tissue Regeneration

    Promotion of new, healthy tissue formation

  • Breakdown of Adhesions

    Improved tissue mobility and function

Auto personal Injuries

Scientific Evidence and Research

Radial Shockwave Therapy is supported by a substantial body of scientific research:
  • A 2015 meta - analysis published in the British Medical Journal found RSWT to be effective for plantar fasciitis, with significant pain reduction and functional improvement.

  • Research in the American Journal of Sports Medicine demonstrated 80% success rates for chronic tendinopathies treated with shockwave therapy, with benefits maintained at 12 - month follow - up.

  • Studies in the Journal of Orthopaedic Research have shown that RSWT stimulates the production of collagen and growth factors essential for tendon healing.

  • Clinical trials published in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation found RSWT to be effective for calcific shoulder tendinitis, with significant dissolution of calcium deposits.

  • Research in the International Journal of Surgery showed that RSWT could be an effective alternative to surgery for many chronic musculoskeletal conditions.

At Ne-Plus Ultra Chiropractic, Dr. Baddley stays current with the latest research and applies evidence-based protocols to maximize the effectiveness of Radial Shockwave Therapy for each patient’s specific condition.

FAQs

Common FAQs About Radial Shockwave Therapy

Is Radial Shockwave Therapy painful?

Most patients describe RSWT as causing mild to moderate discomfort during the procedure,
similar to a deep tissue massage on tender areas. The intensity can be adjusted based on your
comfort level, and the temporary discomfort is generally well-tolerated. Any soreness typically
subsides within 24-48 hours after treatment. The therapeutic benefits far outweigh the temporary discomfort for most patients.

The number of treatments varies depending on your specific condition, its severity, and how long you’ve had it. Most conditions require 3-6 sessions, spaced 7-10 days apart, to achieve optimal results. During your initial consultation, Dr. Baddley will develop a personalized treatment plan and estimate the number of sessions needed for your particular case.

Some patients experience improvement after the first treatment, but the full benefits of RSWT typically develop gradually as the body’s healing processes are activated. Most patients notice significant improvement by the third or fourth session. Healing continues for several weeks or even months after completing the treatment series, with many patients reporting continued improvement over time.

Radial Shockwave Therapy is considered very safe with minimal side effects. You may experience temporary redness, minor swelling, or soreness in the treated area for 24-48 hours after treatment. Minor bruising may occur rarely. RSWT is noninvasive and doesn’t involve medication, reducing the risk of adverse reactions. Dr. Baddley will discuss any specific considerations based on your health history during your consultation.

Experience the advanced healing potential of Radial Shockwave Therapy at Ne-Plus Ultra Chiropractic. If you’re struggling with chronic tendon pain, joint issues, or soft tissue injuries that haven’t responded to conventional treatments, RSWT may be the solution you’ve
been seeking.

Dr. Lamar Baddley’s expertise in this cutting-edge therapy, combined with his comprehensive
The chiropractic approach provides a powerful treatment option for even the most persistent
conditions. Don’t resign yourself to living with chronic pain or limiting your activities when this
effective, non-invasive treatment is available.

Schedule your Radial Shockwave Therapy consultation today**
lasting pain relief and restored function with this advanced therapeutic option.

Clinic Locations

House calls by appointment