How Shockwave Therapy Helped Avoid Shoulder Surgery: A Patient’s Journey

Photo on the left shows calcific tendonitis & photo on the right is an MRI of Chris’ shoulder after treatments of Shockwave Therapy

As a physical therapist, I’ve had the privilege of helping many people overcome injuries, pain, and limitations, but one of the most rewarding experiences is seeing someone avoid surgery when they thought it was their only option. This is exactly what happened with one of my patients, Chris, who came to me with severe shoulder pain caused by calcific tendonitis.

Chris was an active guy, someone who enjoyed hiking, playing tennis, and being involved in outdoor activities. But for months, he had been struggling with constant shoulder pain. Whether he was reaching overhead to grab something from a shelf or simply trying to sleep at night, the pain was unbearable. It wasn’t just discomfort—it was limiting his ability to do even the most basic activities.

After an MRI, it was clear: Chris had calcific tendonitis in his shoulder. This condition happens when calcium deposits build up in the rotator cuff tendons, leading to inflammation, pain, and reduced mobility. As you can imagine, it can be incredibly frustrating, especially for someone who’s used to an active lifestyle.

Chris had already tried multiple treatments, including rest, ice, and medications, but nothing seemed to provide lasting relief. After a consultation with his orthopedic surgeon, surgery was recommended as the next step to remove the calcium deposits and repair the damage.

That’s when Chris came to me, looking for alternatives. He was hesitant about surgery but wasn’t sure where to turn next.

Shockwave Therapy: A Non-Invasive Solution

At Total Recovery PT, we specialize in treating a variety of conditions, and one of the most effective, non-invasive treatments we offer for tendonitis and calcific tendonitis is Shockwave Therapy. This treatment uses high-energy sound waves to target the affected area, stimulating healing, breaking down the calcium deposits, and reducing pain. It’s been proven to promote faster recovery and improved mobility without the need for surgery.

Chris was open to trying Shockwave Therapy, so we started a treatment plan that combined this therapy with personalized physical therapy to strengthen his shoulder and improve his range of motion.

How Shockwave Therapy Works

Shockwave Therapy works by sending acoustic waves into the tissue, specifically targeting the calcified tendon. These high-frequency sound waves stimulate the tissue, breaking up the calcium deposits and encouraging blood flow to the area, which accelerates the healing process. The shockwaves also stimulate the production of collagen, which is essential for tissue repair.

In Chris’ case, after just a few sessions of Shockwave Therapy, he started feeling noticeable relief. The constant pain that had once prevented him from lifting his arm overhead began to ease, and his shoulder started moving with less restriction.

But the real breakthrough came when we incorporated physical therapy. Strengthening the muscles around the shoulder joint was key to preventing further injury and improving function. By combining Shockwave Therapy with targeted physical therapy exercises, we were able to address both the underlying cause of the pain and the muscle weakness that often accompanies tendonitis.

Chris’ Testimonial: Avoiding Surgery

After about four weeks of Shockwave Therapy and physical therapy, Chris came back to me with a smile on his face. He told me that he had been able to hike again without pain, sleep through the night without waking up to shoulder discomfort, and—best of all—he didn’t need surgery.

“I honestly thought surgery was my only option,” Chris told me. “The pain had gotten so bad, and I was ready to do whatever it took to get better. But after just a few sessions of Shockwave Therapy, I started feeling better. And combining that with physical therapy was the key. My shoulder feels stronger, and the pain is practically gone. I can’t believe I was able to avoid surgery.”

The Results: A Full Recovery

By the end of his treatment plan, Chris had regained full range of motion in his shoulder, was pain-free, and was back to his active lifestyle. The shockwave therapy had helped break down the calcium buildup, reduced inflammation, and improved his tendon’s ability to heal. With continued physical therapy, he was able to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder to prevent the condition from recurring.

Not only did Shockwave Therapy provide Chris with the relief he needed, but it also gave him the ability to live life on his terms again—without the need for surgery and with minimal downtime.

Why Shockwave Therapy Works

What I love about Shockwave Therapy is that it offers patients like Chris a chance to avoid more invasive procedures, like surgery, by promoting natural healing in a non-invasive way. Unlike traditional treatments that mask the pain temporarily, Shockwave Therapy addresses the root cause of the issue and stimulates the body’s healing processes at a deeper level.

It’s particularly effective for conditions like calcific tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and other soft tissue injuries that involve tendon damage and inflammation. For athletes and active individuals who want to return to their normal activities as quickly as possible, Shockwave Therapy can be a game-changer.

Could Shockwave Therapy Help You?

If you’re suffering from shoulder pain, calcific tendonitis, or any chronic tendon injury and you’re looking for a non-invasive, effective solution, Shockwave Therapy might be just what you need. At Total Recovery PT, we’ve seen countless patients, just like Chris, avoid surgery and return to their active lifestyles with the help of this innovative therapy.

I understand how frustrating it can be to live with chronic pain, but I want you to know that surgery isn’t always the only option. If you’re ready to explore alternatives and give Shockwave Therapy a try, I invite you to reach out to us and schedule a consultation.

You don’t have to settle for pain or a long recovery from surgery. Let’s explore a path that can help you heal, restore function, and get back to doing what you love.

Unlocking Athletic Performance with the Neubie by NeuFit

As a physical therapist, I’ve spent years working with athletes of all ages and skill levels. From high school athletes trying to make their mark to seasoned professionals striving to get just a little bit faster, stronger, or more explosive, the goal is always the same: unlocking full potential. But what if I told you there was a way to accelerate that process? A way to boost performance while also preventing injuries?

Enter the Neubie by NeuFit—a revolutionary piece of technology that has completely transformed how we approach athletic performance and recovery. If you’ve never heard of it, you’re not alone. But after working with it firsthand in my practice, I can say without a doubt: it’s a game changer.

What Is the Neubie?

The Neubie (short for Neurobiological Electrical Stimulation) is an advanced muscle activation device that uses a direct current to stimulate muscles and nerves in a way that mimics the body’s natural electrical flow. What sets it apart from traditional electrical stimulation units is its ability to create long-lasting changes rather than just offering temporary relief. It doesn’t just mask pain or numb the body for a short time. The Neubie works by improving the communication between the brain and the muscles, which helps athletes perform better, recover faster, and prevent injury.

For athletes, this means a safer, more effective way to train, recover, and elevate performance to the next level.

How the Neubie Unlocks Performance

When an athlete trains, the goal isn’t just to work hard—it’s to train smart. The Neubie helps with exactly that. By delivering targeted, precise electrical stimulation, the Neubie activates muscle groups more efficiently, promoting faster recruitment of muscle fibers and improving strength and endurance.

Here’s how it works:

1. Enhanced Muscle Activation

One of the most immediate benefits of the Neubie is its ability to activate muscles more deeply and efficiently than traditional training alone. This is especially beneficial for athletes who might struggle with “activation” in certain muscle groups before a workout or competition. For example, many athletes experience issues with activating their glutes or hamstrings properly, which can lead to muscle imbalances and a higher risk of injury. With the Neubie, these muscles are activated properly, making it easier to perform exercises correctly and with more force.

2. Improved Strength and Power

The Neubie helps athletes train more effectively by targeting the nervous system and improving its ability to send signals to the muscles. This leads to increased muscle strength and explosive power, both critical for athletic performance. Whether it’s sprinting, jumping, or lifting, the Neubie helps your body perform at its peak.

3. Faster Recovery

Recovery is just as important as training. With the Neubie, athletes can experience faster recovery times by using the device post-workout to reduce muscle soreness, decrease inflammation, and promote healing. This means athletes can train more often, with better results, and less downtime between sessions.

4. Injury Prevention

Athletes push their bodies to the limit, which means injuries are often an unfortunate part of the game. But the Neubie isn’t just about performance—it’s also about injury prevention. By improving muscle activation, increasing strength, and enhancing flexibility, the Neubie helps reduce the risk of injury. In fact, many of the athletes I’ve worked with have reported fewer strains, sprains, and overuse injuries since incorporating the Neubie into their routines.

Who Can Benefit from the Neubie?

While the Neubie was initially developed for elite athletes, it has proven to be incredibly effective for athletes at all levels, from youth sports to professional leagues. It’s an invaluable tool for:

  • High school and college athletes looking to take their performance to the next level.
  • Weekend warriors who want to get the most out of their workouts without risking injury.
  • Professional athletes who need an edge in training, recovery, and injury prevention.

I’ve seen athletes from various sports—football, soccer, basketball, track, and more—use the Neubie to enhance their performance, and the results speak for themselves. The technology is non-invasive, safe, and incredibly effective in improving both strength and muscle activation.

Why the Neubie Stands Out

There are many devices on the market that claim to enhance performance or aid recovery, but the Neubie is different. It’s not just another gadget; it’s a breakthrough in how we understand muscle activation and recovery. What sets it apart is the direct current it uses, which mimics the body’s natural electrical signals, providing deeper, more sustainable benefits. It’s a device that works with your body—not against it.

Real-World Results: Athletes Who’ve Benefited from the Neubie

I’ve seen athletes transform their performance with the Neubie, and I want to share a few stories with you:

  • Chris, a high school football player, struggled with hamstring issues and never seemed to get back to his pre-injury performance. After just a few weeks of working with the Neubie, he reported less pain and more strength in his hamstrings. He was able to run faster and jump higher—without worrying about re-injuring himself.
  • Samantha, a competitive swimmer, had issues with shoulder pain that were affecting her stroke technique. By using the Neubie, we were able to improve the activation of her shoulder muscles, leading to better strength and less discomfort. She was able to swim faster and with more efficiency.

As athletes, we’re constantly looking for ways to improve, recover, and protect our bodies from injury. The Neubie by NeuFit offers a powerful solution to these challenges. Whether you’re training for a big event, recovering from an injury, or just want to elevate your performance, the Neubie can help you unlock your full potential.

If you’re ready to experience what the Neubie can do for you, I encourage you to come by and give it a try. I’ve seen the results firsthand, and I’m confident that with regular use, you’ll be amazed at how much it can transform your training, recovery, and performance.

Let’s unlock your full athletic potential—together.

5 Best Exercises for Knee Pain Relief

As an athletic trainer, I see countless patients come in with knee pain, whether it’s from an old injury, arthritis, or simply overuse. Knee pain can be frustrating and can limit your mobility, making everyday activities feel like a challenge. But here’s the good news: while rest is sometimes necessary, regular movement is one of the best ways to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve joint health.

In my experience, strengthening the muscles that support the knee, such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves, can significantly reduce knee pain and help prevent further injury. Below are five simple yet effective exercises you can do at home to alleviate knee pain, improve strength, and restore stability.

1. Straight Leg Raises

Straight leg raises are an excellent exercise for strengthening the quadriceps (the muscles on the front of your thighs) without putting stress on the knee joint.

How to Do It:

  • Lie flat on your back with one leg bent and the other leg straight.
  • Tighten the muscles in your straight leg and slowly lift it about 6-12 inches off the ground.
  • Hold for 5 seconds, then slowly lower the leg.
  • Perform 10-15 repetitions on each leg, and repeat for 2-3 sets.

This exercise helps you build strength in the quadriceps, which can reduce knee pain caused by weakness in these muscles.

2. Glute Bridges

Glute bridges not only strengthen the glutes but also engage the hamstrings and core muscles. These muscles provide critical support to the knee joint during movement.

How to Do It:

  • Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground, hip-width apart.
  • Tighten your core and squeeze your glutes as you lift your hips off the floor to form a straight line from your shoulders to your knees.
  • Hold for a few seconds at the top, then lower your hips back down slowly.
  • Perform 10-15 repetitions for 2-3 sets.

By strengthening your glutes and hamstrings, you help stabilize your hips and knees, which is crucial for reducing knee pain.

3. Wall Squats

Wall squats are a fantastic way to target the muscles around the knees—quads, hamstrings, and glutes—without putting too much pressure on the joints. This exercise mimics the action of sitting down and standing up, which is an essential function for daily activities.

How to Do It:

  • Stand with your back against a wall, feet about shoulder-width apart and slightly in front of you.
  • Slowly slide your back down the wall, bending your knees and lowering yourself into a squat position (as if sitting in an invisible chair).
  • Hold the squat for 10-15 seconds, then return to a standing position.
  • Perform 8-10 repetitions, and repeat for 2-3 sets.

Wall squats help build endurance in the muscles around the knee, giving them more stability and reducing pain over time.

4. Hamstring Curls

Strengthening the hamstrings (the muscles at the back of your thighs) can significantly improve knee stability and reduce strain on the joint.

How to Do It:

  • Stand behind a chair or hold onto a sturdy surface for balance.
  • Slowly lift one foot towards your glutes, keeping your knees in line with each other.
  • Hold for a few seconds at the top, then lower your foot back down.
  • Perform 10-15 repetitions on each leg, and repeat for 2-3 sets.

Hamstring curls activate the muscles that support your knee from the back, helping to stabilize the joint and alleviate pain.

5. Calf Raises

Calf raises target the muscles in the lower leg, improving overall leg strength and stability. Strong calves can help reduce the strain on your knees when walking or standing.

How to Do It:

  • Stand with your feet hip-width apart, near a wall or chair for balance.
  • Slowly rise onto the balls of your feet, lifting your heels as high as comfortably possible.
  • Hold for a few seconds, then lower your heels back down.
  • Perform 15-20 repetitions, and repeat for 2-3 sets.

By strengthening the calf muscles, you help improve the overall function of your lower legs, which takes pressure off the knees.

Additional Tips for Knee Pain Relief:

  • Stretch Regularly: Stretching the muscles around your knee—such as your quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves—can help improve flexibility and reduce tension in the joints, easing knee pain.
  • Low-Impact Cardio: Activities like walking, swimming, and cycling can improve knee function without putting too much pressure on the joints. These are great options if you want to stay active while managing knee pain.
  • Consult a Doctor or Physical Therapist: If your knee pain is severe, persistent, or doesn’t improve with exercise, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new routine. A physical therapist can help tailor exercises specifically to your needs.

Incorporating these five exercises into your daily routine will help strengthen the muscles around your knee, increase flexibility, and reduce pain over time. Remember: consistency is key. If you stick with it, you’ll likely notice improvements in your knee function, pain levels, and overall mobility.

If you ever need guidance on how to perform these exercises or experience any discomfort, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for support. Knee pain doesn’t have to control your life. With the right exercises, you can regain strength and keep moving forward!