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Italiano What is shock wave therapy
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive method in which acoustic waves of defined energy are transmitted through the skin into damaged tissue. The waves are generated outside the body and focused at a depth of 0.5–7 cm.
Mechanism: the mechanical energy of the wave causes micro-traumatization of tissue, triggering a local healing response — increased blood flow, recruitment of progenitor cells, breakdown of calcium deposits (in calcific tendinopathies). The method has been used in orthopedics for over 25 years.
Indications and evidence
Heel spur and plantar fasciitis
The most studied indication. Meta-analyses show significant pain reduction 12 weeks after ESWT compared to placebo.
Calcific tendinitis of the shoulder
ESWT breaks down calcium deposits in the supraspinatus tendon. Efficacy confirmed in RCTs for calcifications over 5 mm.
Tendinopathies (tennis elbow, Achilles)
Chronic degenerative tendon changes. ESWT stimulates angiogenesis and tissue remodeling. Moderate efficacy, comparable to other conservative methods.
ESWT and regenerative methods
ESWT and regenerative injections solve different tasks and often complement each other:
ESWT before injections
Shock waves “loosen” chronically altered tissue and improve its blood supply — this may increase the availability of target cells for growth factors from PRP or CGF.
Different zones
ESWT is effective for tendons, fascia, and entheses. Regenerative injections — for joints and intra-tissue structures under ultrasound guidance.
Limitations
ESWT is not used for malignancies in the treatment zone, pregnancy, acute infections, coagulation disorders. The full list of contraindications is determined by the physician.
Free clinic and treatment plan selection
Describe your case and attach the physician’s report. We will find clinics that use both ESWT and regenerative methods — and build a sequential plan.
Submit request +49 160 5736643FAQ: shock wave therapy
Sensations range from mild discomfort to moderate pain during the impulse. Intensity can be reduced or local anesthesia used. Soreness in the treatment zone for 1–2 days after is possible.
A standard course is 3–5 sessions at 5–7 day intervals. Each session lasts 10–20 minutes. The effect develops gradually: full results are assessed 8–12 weeks after the course.
Radial ESWT disperses energy at the skin surface — works to a depth of 3–5 cm for superficial tissues. Focused concentrates energy at a point up to 12 cm deep — for deep structures and bone.
Different methods with different mechanisms. ESWT is mechanical stimulation, working mainly on tendons. PRP delivers growth factors directly into tissue. For tendinopathies they may be combined; for joint arthritis ESWT is less effective.