For Dr. Lyresa Pleskovitch, DC, of Spine & Therapy in Palo Alto, CA, the path to incorporating Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) was driven by the tangible, physical evidence of healing. After referring a patient for Shockwave and feeling the remarkable difference in the tissue quality upon their return, the decision was immediate. Today, ESWT is one of the cornerstones of her practice, offering a non-invasive solution for conditions ranging from the spine to the extremities.
A Catalyst for Clinical Excellence
Before integrating Shockwave, Dr. Pleskovitch’s practice relied on traditional manual therapies, including active release, Graston Technique, chiropractic adjustments, and myofascial release. While these tools are foundational, the addition of Radial Pressure Wave (EPAT) in 2014 and Focused Shockwave (ESWT) in 2017 provided a technological "missing link."
The investment was as much about her own longevity as a practitioner as it was about the patient's recovery. "As a chiropractor, Shockwave saves my hands," Dr. Pleskovitch explains. "Because it’s less physically demanding than manual work, but still yields great results, I can see more patients and have been able to practice longer."
Exceptional Outcomes Across the Lifespan
At the heart of Dr. Pleskovitch’s practice is a philosophy of patient-centered care. For her, success isn't measured with percentages and statistics, but in the quality of the connection with those who walk through the door. "You’re successful if you express compassion and patient-centered care. When the patient leaves your office, they should feel that you truly listened."
The patient demographic at Dr. Pleskovitch’s practice is remarkably diverse, spanning from ages 10 to 96. While Dr. Pleskovitch is careful to wait until patients are teenagers, she has successfully used ESWT on patients as senior as 96 years old.
With a success rate of approximately 85%, the clinical results are consistent, even when dealing with "difficult" cases like plantar fascia tears. Some of her most extraordinary outcomes include:
- Meniscus Tears: Two specific cases involving women with torn medial menisci who avoided surgery and returned to hiking and walking symptom-free.
- Personal Success: Dr. Pleskovitch purchased her Focused Shockwave device in 2017 after an MRI confirmed her own torn medial meniscus. Today, she is completely symptom-free thanks to this technology.
- The "One-and-Done": Patients who experience a reduction in pain after just a single session.
The Business of Healing: ROI and Growth
For many practitioners, the "cash-pay" nature of advanced modalities can feel like a hurdle. "I think the biggest reason practitioners are on the fence is the price point and convincing patients to pay cash," Dr. Pleskovitch admits. "I am a very small practitioner, but I financed the device and made up the cost within that first year. It increases revenue, yes, but more importantly, it allows you to offer a powerful option for injuries before patients have to consider more invasive treatments."
With her patients, Dr. Pleskovitch navigates the cash-pay nuances with transparency and a "results-first" strategy:
- The "Free Trial": "I usually give the patient one free treatment. Most of the time, once they experience that initial pain relief, they are more than willing to pay for the full course of care."
- Marketing: Growth has been organic, fueled by the website and a reputation that draws referrals from other local practitioners.
- Rapid ROI: Dr. Pleskovitch was able to pay off her Focused Shockwave device within a single year.
Why Quality Matters: CuraMedix and STORZ Medical
When asked about the "knock-off" devices sold on sites like Amazon, Dr. Pleskovitch is direct: "Don’t even waste your time." She chose to partner with CuraMedix and STORZ Medical because of their long history, commitment to research, and the high level of support they provide to "small" practitioners. This partnership ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care available.
Ready to join Dr. Pleskovitch, and offer next-level care for your own patients? Contact us today to connect with one of our experts and revolutionize your practice.
Important to Note: The treatments and use of EPAT®, ESWT, and EMTT® described in this article reflect the personal clinical experience of the practitioner and are not intended as claims of efficacy.
