Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive medical treatment that uses high-energy acoustic sound waves to treat chronic, painful musculoskeletal conditions. Originally used to break up kidney stones (lithotripsy), the technology has been modified for orthopedic conditions to promote tissue regeneration and reduce pain.

How ESWT works

During an ESWT session, a gel is applied to the treatment area to help transmit the acoustic waves. A handheld device delivers high-pressure sound waves into the targeted tissue, which creates a controlled inflammatory response that triggers the body's natural healing processes.

The acoustic waves are thought to have several beneficial effects:

Increase blood flow and promote the formation of new blood vessels.
Stimulate cell regeneration and tissue repair.
Break up calcium deposits that can form in tendons.
Overstimulate nerves to produce an analgesic (pain-numbing) effect.

What ESWT can treat

ESWT is used for a variety of musculoskeletal and other conditions. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has specifically approved it for:

Plantar fasciitis: Inflammation of the tissue band connecting the heel bone to the toes.
Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow): Pain caused by damage to the forearm muscles near the elbow joint.

It is also used for a range of other conditions, including:

Achilles and other tendinopathies
Rotator cuff tendonitis with or without calcification
Chronic stress fractures and non-healing fractures
Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (hip bursitis)
Myofascial pain syndrome

Potential side effects and contraindications

Most side effects from ESWT are temporary and minor, and the therapy is generally considered safe when used appropriately.

Common side effects include:

Pain, discomfort, or soreness at the treatment site.

Skin redness or swelling.

Minor bruising or petechiae (small red spots).