Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT)
How does extracorporeal shock wave therapy work?
A shock wave is an abrupt, energetic pressure wave of very short duration, which is focused using a special technique to reach the pain point directly, where it exerts its effect. The shock wave entering the body releases its energy in the body and causes an increase in metabolism in the various types of tissue (bones, tendons, muscles), which means, for example, that an inflammatory reaction can be cleared more quickly. The shock wave penetrates the tissue without damaging it. The shock waves are focused by means of a transducer, which helps direct the energy precisely to the part of the body requiring treatment.
In this way, they act exactly where the pain center or the cause of the pain is located. The shock waves stimulate blood circulation, which leads to increased metabolic activity and can dissolve calcium deposits or activate the body’s self-healing powers. A newer field of application is also the positive influence on wound healing disorders, e.g. in diabetics or burns.
The private orthopedic practice “Bones & Brain” in Cologne uses the DUOLITH SD1>ultra<, currently the most modern shock wave therapy device from the STORZ company.
Which clinical pictures can be treated with extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) in the orthopedic private practice “Bones & Brain” in Cologne?
Calcified shoulder (tendinosis calcarea)
Calcified shoulder is an extremely painful calcium deposit in the subacromial space near the tendon of the supraspinatus muscle. This often leads to massive episodes of pain – especially at night – with restricted movement. In the context of tendinosis calcarea, ESWT leads to disintegration of the calcific deposit, which decreases local inflammation and reduces pain.
Epicondylitis humeri radialis
In the case of so-called “tennis elbow”, good to very good treatment results are achieved with the help of ESWT. This complaint is based on an overload or inflammation of the proximal extensor tendon of the forearm muscles. Especially in case of unsuccessful therapy attempts by means of injections/physiotherapy, ESWT can avoid surgery.
Other areas of application of ESWT are:
- Epicondylitis humeri ulnaris (“golfer’s elbow”)
- Supraspinatus tendon syndrome
- Patellar tendon syndrome (joggers knee/sprinters knee)
- Bursitis trochanterica (bursitis of the hip bone)
- Pseudarthrosis (unhealed fractures)
- Muscular pain syndromes
- Plantar fasciitis (heel spur)
- Achillodynia (chronic Achilles tendon pain)
