When you consider that up to an estimated 25% of the adult population suffers from chronic low back pain, it’s no surprise there are so many patients seeking physiotherapy for back pain.

Worldwide, low back pain is the leading cause of years lived with disability. In Canada, it is one of the most common reasons for doctor visits among people younger than 60. Symptoms of back pain include dull, sharp, or aching pain as well as stiffness, posture issues, and muscle spasms.

Risk factors for low back pain can include:

  • Age
  • Weight
  • Poor physical health
  • Occupation and lifestyle

Back pain is also linked to mental health issues. It can both cause and be caused by depression and anxiety.

Conservative treatment for back pain involves over-the-counter pain relievers, ice, rest, hands-on manipulation, and physical therapy. If the patient doesn’t respond to this, prescription pain medication, steroid injections, and surgery may be necessary.

For patients who haven’t improved after conservative treatment, but aren’t ready for prescription medication or invasive methods, shockwave therapy is an ideal solution.

Shockwave Therapy and Physiotherapy for Back Pain        

Shockwave therapy can treat many musculoskeletal disorders without drugs or surgery because it enhances the body’s natural healing processes. Medical practitioners like physiotherapists can use a handheld shockwave device to target a patient’s back. This device sends acoustic pressure waves to the affected area, stimulating cells that are responsible for healing damaged bone and tissue.

Clinical trials have proven shockwave therapy’s efficacy in treating musculoskeletal disorders like back pain. One recently published study examined the effects of shockwave therapy on pain, disability, and quality of life for patients with chronic low back pain.

Patients were randomized into two groups. One group received shockwave treatment while the control group received a placebo. Before treatment then six and 12 weeks afterward, researchers used the Numerical Rating Scale, Oswestry Disability Index, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the Short-form 36 to measure results.

Researchers concluded that patients who’d received shockwave therapy had significantly greater improvements compared to the control group for pain, disability, anxiety, and quality of life.

We Help You Provide the Physiotherapy for Back Pain

Are you ready to supplement your physiotherapy for back pain regimen with shockwave therapy? We have the best technology on the market. Storz shockwave devices help you treat more patients while providing them with better outcomes.

Call (866) 977-0847 or visit our website today to request a free consultation.