The ABC of shock wave therapy

Treatment

Shock waves have been used in medicine since 1980, for instance to break down kidney stones. Shock waves are generated as a pressure wave in modern pain therapy and applied to tissue via a contact agent (gel).

Radial as well as focussed shock waves have a microbiological effect and stimulate self-healing. Therapeutic uses:

–	Painful, chronic inflammation of the musculoskeletal and supporting systems
–	Sports medicine/orthopaedic problems
–	Tennis/golfer’s elbow
–	Shoulder pain
–	Treatment of trigger points
–	Trochanteric bursitis
–	Achillodynia
–	Heel pain
–	Tendon insertion disorders: painful inflammatory conditions of tendinous insertions due to excessive or incorrect weight-bearing or degenerative processes
–	Painful trigger points: acute or chronic pain such as in the back, shoulder and neck regions, due to permanently shortened and thickened muscle segments (trigger points)
–	Acupuncture points: pain therapy by treatment of acupuncture points

Positive effect

–	Increased release of Substance P (responsible for pain inhibition)
–	Anti-inflammatory effect by slowing down of the inflammatory mediator COX II
–	Activation of the body’s endogenous repair mechanism e.g. new development of vessels
–	Blockade of overstimulated nerve fibres, thus providing relief from pain

Shock wave therapy may be unpleasant in certain situations, but is adapted to the patient’s sensitivity to pain. This is a self-paid service. Modern health insurers however take over a part on request (SUVA, Wincare, Helsana, Swica). (Source: MTR AG, Wollerau)