Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) is a modern method for treating diseases and consequences of injuries of the musculoskeletal system, based on the use of acoustic, so-called shock waves.
What is the therapeutic effect of ESWT based on?
The shock wave used in this technology is characterized by high amplitude and a rapid change in pressure. Using a special applicator, the energy of the shock wave is transmitted to the target area. Sound waves penetrate deep into tissues and, reflecting from bone structures, provide a “deep micromassage.” The higher the amplitude of the sound wave, the greater the absorption of its energy by biological tissues.
Transverse waves formed at the interface of tissues with different acoustic resistance (for example, soft tissue–bone) are well absorbed by hard tissues and can penetrate up to 3 mm in depth. When shock waves act on hard tissues (bones, tendons), microdisruptions of connective tissue microstructures may occur, altering their mechanical properties. These effects are enhanced in the presence of water in conductive tissues due to its rapid vaporization under shock wave exposure.
Effects of ESWT
- destruction of bone calcifications,
- breakdown of fibrous tissue overgrowths in tendons and fasciae,
- increase in the rate of metabolic reactions,
- changes in cell membrane permeability in the area where the shock wave dissipates,
- phagocytosis of osteoblasts by activated macrophages, which helps reduce pressure on nerve structures, decrease pain, activate local immunity, and promote tissue repair.
Indications for ESWT
- pathology of tendons and ligaments,
- loss of ligament elasticity,
- enthesopathies of various localizations,
- osteoarthritis,
- pain in muscles, shoulder, joints, or heel,
- salt deposits in joints, tendons, and muscles (excluding gout),
- traumatic injuries,
- pseudoarthrosis (false joints),
- osteochondropathies,
- non-union fractures.
Contraindications
- coagulation disorders,
- malignancy in the treatment area,
- pregnancy,
- exposure to major blood vessels, lung tissue, intestines, or nerves,
- infection in the treatment area,
- exposure to skull bones (except for the temporomandibular joint).
Duration of treatment
The number of procedures, course duration, and dosage are determined individually by the attending physician. On average, a treatment course consists of 2–5 procedures with intervals of 5–7 days between sessions.
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy is a non-invasive method and is generally well tolerated. Complications and side effects are rare. The most common adverse effects may include transient pain and small hematomas related to local anesthesia use.
How is ESWT performed?
During the procedure, the patient is in a lying or sitting position. A special gel is applied to the affected area, and the applicator head is positioned on the skin. The average duration of one procedure is 5–8 minutes.
As a result of treatment, there is a reduction in aseptic inflammation, improvement in blood flow, and normalization of microcirculation. Tissue edema decreases, leading to rapid and effective pain relief. Trophic properties of tissues improve, joint function is restored, and the range of painless active movements increases. This significantly enhances quality of life and daily activity.
Why undergo extracorporeal shock wave therapy in Belarus?
Belarusian medical centers are equipped with modern ESWT devices. Experienced specialists develop individualized treatment programs, ensuring effective recovery without surgical intervention.
