ESWT - SHOCK WAVE TREATMENT

ESWT - SHOCK WAVE TREATMENT

ESWT treatment with acoustic shock waves is a modern, non-invasive approach to treating pain and functional impairment in patients with degenerative and calcifying changes in the tendon-muscle system.

The effects of shock waves were originally used in medicine to break up kidney stones (ESWL - lithotripter), but in modern times their use has expanded to include muscle and tendon pain therapy.

In the medical center, we use Duolith SD1 technology from the innovator and pioneer in the field of shock waves in medicine - Storz Medical.

In order to assess the suitability and scope of ESWT therapy, a clinical and ultrasound examination is required before starting treatment.

Mechanism of action

Research in recent years has shown that shock waves, which are directed to the body area with a therapeutic probe, stimulate:

blood and lymph flow and metabolism
cell membrane permeability
proliferation of stem cells
anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory response
strengthening of connective tissue
production of growth factors
Results of therapy
improved tissue blood supply
normalization of local conditions
disintegration of calcifications
gradual regeneration of the affected area
long-term pain reduction
reduction or elimination of calcifications in the tissues
improved mobility of the affected limb

According to previous experience, the first results are usually seen after the 3rd therapy, and the condition continues to improve for 3 months after the end of treatment.

Areas of application of ESWT

1. Pain due to degenerative changes and calcifications of tendons:

• Shoulder (rotator cuff)
• Achilles tendon
• Heel (spina calcanea - heel spur)
• Foot (plantar fasciitis)
• Elbow (medial, lateral epicondylitis)
• Knee (patellar tendinitis)
• Hip (trochanteric tendinitis)

2. Chronic muscle pain in the neck or back (muscle knots)

More information about ESWT treatment and the full range of indications approved by the ISMST (International Society for Medical Shockwave Treatment) can be found on their website - ISMST.

Before ESWT therapy, we perform:

• a clinical examination by a doctor
• an ultrasound examination of the affected region
• an assessment of functional impairment
• an assessment of risk factors and possible contraindications
• determining the area and depth of therapy
• determining the number of ESWT shock wave therapies
• determining the interval between individual therapies

Course of ESWT treatment

As part of the treatment, we perform 4 - 6 therapies, which are performed every 5 - 9 days. The treatment can be extended if necessary.
During ESWT therapy, the patient lies or sits. A harmless ultrasound gel is applied to the skin over the affected area. The therapy is performed according to the selected protocol in two parts - in the first part, we use the F-SW probe, and in the second part, the R-SW probe.

Special instructions or recommendations

• a day's rest after each ESWT therapy
• greater physical exertion during ESWT therapy (2-4 weeks) is not desirable
• usual daily activities are generally not limited
• clinical control of the treatment results three months after the last therapy

Foto: Storz ESWT SD1 ultra