What is Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)?

Mechanisms of Acoustic Shockwave Stimulation

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) delivers focused acoustic pulses that propagate through biological tissues. The transient pressure differentials induce biological mechanotransduction, triggering local release of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), neovascularization, nociceptor desensitization, and resorption of calcareous tendon deposits.

Common Clinical Indications

ESWT is indicated for chronic, recalcitrant enthesopathies that fail conventional rest and physical therapy regimens, presenting an effective outpatient non-operative modality.

Target Conditions

• Plantar fasciitis with or without calcaneal heel spurs
• Lateral and medial epicondylitis (tennis and golfer's elbow)
• Calcific tendinitis of the shoulder rotator cuff
• Insertional and midportion Achilles tendinopathy
• Delayed bone union and non-union fractures

Frequently Asked Questions

How many sessions are typically required?

Protocols typically involve 3 to 5 weekly sessions lasting 10-15 minutes, with therapeutic tissue remodeling peaking between 6 to 12 weeks post-treatment.

Is anesthesia required during ESWT?

No anesthesia or incisions are needed. Patients ambulate immediately after treatment without downtime.