We are thrilled to share some exciting news with all of you—VSWI has earned the “People Love Us on Yelp” badge for 2024! This incredible honor is a testament to the trust and support of our amazing patients, and we want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude.
At VSWI, our mission has always been to provide personalized, high-quality chiropractic care to help you feel your best and live pain-free. Whether you’re struggling with chronic pain, recovering from a sports injury, or healing after surgery, our doctors are dedicated to designing treatment plans that are uniquely suited to your individual needs.
This recognition from Yelp is more than just a badge—it’s a reflection of the positive impact we’ve been able to make in the lives of our patients. Your feedback, your reviews, and your trust in us have helped make us a top chiropractic clinic in Palo Alto, and we couldn’t have achieved this without you!
Our Commitment to You
At VSWI, we understand that pain—whether it’s the result of long-term issues, recent injuries, or healing after surgery—can have a significant impact on your life. That’s why we take a personalized approach to every patient’s treatment plan. Whether you're seeking spinal adjustments for pain relief, rehabilitation exercises to recover, sports injury care, or overall wellness guidance, our goal is to help you restore your health and well-being.
Thank You for Choosing VSWI
We’re honored to be your trusted chiropractic clinic in Palo Alto. Your feedback is invaluable to us, and we will continue to work hard every day to ensure you receive the best care possible.
Schedule an appointment and experience the benefits of seeing a chiropractor. Thank you for making VSWI the chiropractic clinic of choice for so many people in Palo Alto. We look forward to continuing to serve you in 2025 and beyond!
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), commonly known as shockwave therapy, is a non-invasive treatment option for various musculoskeletal conditions. First introduced in orthopedic pain therapy, ESWT uses shock waves generated by a specialized device to target localized areas of the body. These pressure waves stimulate biological processes, resulting in pain relief, improved circulation, and enhanced tissue healing.
ESWT is widely used to address both acute and chronic conditions, including:
Heel pain and plantar fasciitis
Tendon-related injuries (Achilles tendon, patellar tendon, hamstring, elbow, and shoulder)
Bone-related issues (e.g., stress fractures and non-healing fractures)
Joint injuries and inflammation
While it is often associated with sports injuries, ESWT is also effective for active individuals who experience overuse injuries from repetitive motions or strain.
Shockwave therapy transfers energy from the shockwave device to the affected area of the body, improving metabolism and blood circulation while promoting tissue regeneration and pain relief.
The process involves:
Device Application: A handheld applicator delivers focused or radial shockwaves to the treatment area.
Session Duration: Treatment typically lasts 5–15 minutes.
Recovery: Patients may experience mild discomfort but should avoid strenuous physical activity for two weeks post-treatment.
Learn more about how ESWT works: How Shock Waves Work.
Radial Shockwaves: Radial shockwaves, often referred to as soft shocks, are more suitable for treating larger surface areas with superficial conditions.
Ideal for superficial tissue problems such as muscle injuries.
Benefits include improved circulation, pain relief, and broader energy distribution.
Focused Shockwaves: Focused shockwaves are able to penetrate deeper into the tissues and provides all of its power at the designated depth.
Best for deep tissue issues like tendon injuries or bone conditions.
Targeted energy helps reduce inflammation, dissolve calcium deposits, and stimulate tissue repair.
Shockwave generator: This is the main section of the device that generates high-energy pressure waves, either focused or radial, in accordance with the equipment and the nature of the treatment.
Applicator or Handpiece: The shockwave gun, more commonly known as the applicator, is used to deliver shockwaves to the desired parts of the body. The applicators, however, have designs that ensure effective and precise applications, with the benefits of being able to change the intensity depending on the condition of the patient.
Control Unit: In this regard, the control unit is made for therapists to configure energy level, frequency, and treatment mode during the treatment session. The latest technologies feature a touchscreen and user-friendly interface.
Coupling Gel: Before initiating shockwave therapy, it is applied to the skin to allow proper transfer of shockwaves from the machine to the patient's body.
Energy Source: Shock waves produced by ESWT machines usually are either electromagnetic, piezoelectric, or pneumatic, with each method able to produce its own kind of shockwave and used for a certain goal of treatment-based purposes.
Achilles Tendinitis occurs when the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed, typically due to repetitive stress or overuse. This condition often results in stiffness, pain, and limited mobility in the back of the lower leg and heel.
Plantar Fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. This condition often presents as sharp heel pain, especially noticeable after periods of rest or in the morning.
Both conditions can significantly impact mobility and quality of life, often requiring a combination of treatments such as rest, stretching, physical therapy, and targeted interventions.
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) offers a non-invasive, effective option for managing these conditions. The therapy involves the application of low-energy shockwaves directly to the affected area, which can be done in an office setting without the need for anesthesia.
Non-Invasive Solution:
Shockwave therapy offers a safer alternative to invasive procedures like injections or surgery. With fewer risks and quicker recovery times, it’s recognized as one of the most effective non-surgical treatment options available today.
Effective Pain Relief:
Patients often notice a significant reduction in pain after just a few sessions. The acoustic waves target damaged tissue, breaking down inflammatory cells and accelerating the body’s natural healing processes.
Long-Term Results:
Unlike treatments that merely mask symptoms, shockwave therapy addresses the root causes of pain. Research shows its ability to stimulate healing and provide lasting relief, making it an excellent option for managing chronic conditions.
Natural Healing Activation:
This treatment enhances the body’s own healing mechanisms, helping to restore damaged tissue and improve functionality over time.
Minimal Downtime:
With its non-invasive nature, patients can quickly return to their daily routines, often shortly after treatment. It’s an efficient and convenient option for those with busy lifestyles.
Learn more about ESWT advantages: Advantages of ESWT.
Side Effects of Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave Therapy is considerably safe. However, potential side effects may include discomfort, changes in skin color, bruising, tingling sensations, numbness, nerve irritation, swelling, or occasional dizziness.
At Vanderhoof Sports and Wellness Institute in Palo Alto, we are proud to offer Shockwave Therapy, a cutting-edge treatment designed to provide effective pain relief and lasting results.
Take the first step toward recovery today. Contact us at 650-323-6184 or book an appointment online to experience the benefits of shockwave therapy for yourself.
In today’s digital age, many of us spend hours at a desk, often leading to discomfort and chronic pain. Poor ergonomics can harm spinal health, causing issues like back pain and neck stiffness. Here are some essential tips for creating a spine-friendly workspace:
Choosing the right chair is crucial. Look for chairs that offers:
Lumbar Support: A chair with lower back support helps maintain the natural curve of your spine
Adjustability: Ensure the chair height, armrests, and backrest can be adjusted to fit your body
The height of your desk should allow for a comfortable sitting position. When sitting:
Your elbows should be at a 90-degree angle, close to your body
Your wrists should be straight and not bent upwards or downwards while typing
The positioning of your monitor plays a significant role in spinal health. Follow these guidelines:
Eye level: the top of the screen should be at or just below eye level, so you don’t have to tilt your head up or down
Distance: Sit about an arm’s length away from the screen to reduce eye strain
Tilt: The monitor should be slightly tilted back to minimize glare and encourage a more neutral neck position
Even with the best ergonomic setup, prolonged sitting can still lead to discomfort. To combat this:
Take Regular Breaks: Stand up and stretch every 30-60 minutes. Simple movements like shoulder rolls and neck stretches can relieve tension
Incorporate Movement: Use a standing desk for part of the day, try a desk treadmill to promote activity while working, or go on a short walk during your break.
By applying these ergonomic tips, you can create a workspace that not only boosts your productivity but also protects your spinal health. Remember, small changes can make a significant difference in how you feel at the end of the day. Prioritize your spine and well-being, and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable work environment.
If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort, consider consulting one of our chiropractors in Palo Alto. The benefits of seeing a chiropractor include personalized advice and spinal adjustments tailored to your needs.
We are excited to introduce Shockwave Therapy at VSWI! This innovative treatment offers effective pain relief and promotes healing for various musculoskeletal conditions. Shockwave therapy was originally used by physicians to break up kidney stones, but more recently has been utilized by equestrians and podiatrists to successfully treat a number of conditions.
Dealing with a persistent sports injury or a chronic condition that just won’t seem to improve? Shockwave Therapy might be the solution you’re looking for! This non-invasive treatment uses high-energy acoustic waves to promote healing and tissue regeneration. Although the term “shockwave” might sound intimidating, the only real shock is the relief you’ll experience after your first treatment.
Sports injuries
Hip, knee, shoulder pain
Tendinitis
Rotator cuff injuries
Achilles tendon injuries
And many more!
Non-Invasive Treatment: An alternative to treatments like injections and surgery means fewer risks and a quicker recovery time. It has been proven to be the most effective non-surgical treatment on the market today!
Pain Relief: Many patients experience significant pain relief after just a few sessions. The acoustic waves sent to the damaged tissue help to break up inflammatory cells and promote healing.
Lasting Relief: This treatment targets the root causes of pain, addressing underlying issues instead of simply masking the symptoms. Extensive research supports shockwave therapy’s proven ability to promote healing and alleviate discomfort, providing patients with a long-lasting solution for managing chronic conditions.
At VSWI, we are devoted to providing our patients with the best possible care, which is why we're excited to offer this new treatment to our patients. If you are struggling with chronic pain or have an injury that isn’t healing as expected, we invite you to explore this innovative therapy with us.
At VSWI, we’re passionate about helping our patients achieve optimal health and wellness through multidisciplinary health care. One common misconception we often hear is that once you start seeing a chiropractor, you’re locked into a lifelong commitment.
Individual Treatment Plans: Doctors create individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs. These plans often include an initial intensive phase aimed at reducing pain and restoring function. Once improvement is achieved, the frequency of visits usually decreases. This progression is specifically aimed at achieving long-term wellness.
Patient-Centered Approach: At VSWI, our mission is to offer a high standard of multidisciplinary healthcare to our community while educating individuals how to take care of their own health needs outside our facility. Our practitioners are determined to empower patients with the knowledge to take proactive steps in managing their health.
Preventative Care: Chiropractic care isn’t just reactive to pain; it can also be proactive. Some patients may opt for periodic visits to maintain spinal alignment, mobility, and overall well-being while others may choose ongoing maintenance care.
Here at VSWI, we work hard on empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and wellbeing. Whether you decide to choose ongoing maintenance care or periodic visits is a personal decision based on your health needs and preferences. There is no obligation when it comes to chiropractic care, just benefits. Let’s get crackin’!
At our Palo Alto office, we're often asked about chiropractic care for pregnancy. Those nine months see all sorts of monumental changes to a woman's body, shifting your center of gravity and compressing on the back, spine, and hips. The result is often pain, soreness, and discomfort stemming from structural issues.
People often think about the pain and structure issues when considering pre-natal chiropractic, but what's often overlooked are the indirect effects. Pain and discomfort lead to worse sleep, trouble focusing, and general grouchiness -- which is all understandable given the physical changes of pregnancy, but no one wants to go through that if there's a way around it.
Here are just a few of the ways chiropractic visits can help a woman during pregnancy.
Back, spine, hip pain relief: These areas are in pain because of different reasons, but they're all related to the musculo-skeletal system. An adjustment can help relieve pinched nerves, sciatica, structural pressure, and other such issues.
Manage morning sickness and nausea: While chiropractic will not alleviate nausea/morning sickness for everyone, it can provide relief for a number of people. Spinal manipulation ensures that organs are allowed to function, and as many of these can be one of the many causes of morning sickness, many women find it helpful.
A smoother delivery: Chiropractic is all about getting the body's structural system into proper alignment. Nine months of carrying another human being can create misalignment due to posture changes, natural structural changes, and stress on joints/muscles. By getting the spine and pelvis into alignment and ensuring there are no impinged nerves or pressured organs, the body can go into labor as naturally as possible.
At the VSWI Palo Alto office, we have a team of experts ready to help relieve your pain from pregnancy. This includes a number of options, including chiropractic, massage, and more. Book an appointment today or get in touch to see if our prenatal chiropractic treatments are right for you.
