| Years 1–2 (Pre-Treatment) | Diagnosed by orthopedist with a torn ECRB tendon. Completed physical therapy and wore a forearm brace. Placed on disability due to inability to perform manual work. Over 2 years of treatment with no meaningful improvement; surgery was discussed but not pursued. |
| ▸ Treatment at City Integrative Rehabilitation | |
| Condition | Torn Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis (ECRB) tendon |
| Employment Status | On disability |
| Job Requirement | Repetitive gripping — physical labor |
| Prior Treatment Duration | 2 years — unsuccessful |
| Treatment | Focused shockwave therapy (F-ESWT) |
| Outcome | Pain-free after 4 sessions, back to work after 3 |
Presenting Complaint
41-year-old male with a physical job requiring repetitive gripping. On disability for a torn ECRB that wasn’t healing despite 2 years of treatment. Unable to work, unable to grip without pain.
Focused Shockwave Therapy
We identified the exact location of the tear and applied focused ESWT directly into it. Four rounds of F-ESWT targeting the torn tendon. Focused shockwave stimulates cellular repair, increases blood flow to the injury site, and promotes tissue regeneration — precisely what a non-healing tendon tear needs. Learn more about shockwave therapy.
Treatment Timeline
| Session 4 | Completely pain-free. Full grip strength restored. |
Outcome
A torn ECRB tendon that had failed to heal for 2 years was resolved in 4 sessions of focused shockwave therapy. The patient went from disability to back at work after just 3 sessions.
Why This Approach Works
Tendon tears that fail to heal through rest and standard treatment are often stuck in a chronic, non-healing state. The tissue has insufficient blood supply and cellular activity to complete the repair process. Focused shockwave therapy restarts this process at the cellular level — breaking through the plateau that rest and time alone cannot overcome. For a patient on disability whose livelihood depends on his ability to grip, this wasn’t just pain relief — it was getting his life back.
This case study is for educational purposes and represents one patient’s experience. Results may vary based on individual factors, injury severity, and treatment adherence. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any treatment plan.