WHAT ARE SHOCK WAVES?
Introduced in the early nineties for the treatment of kidney stones, the shock waves find application in the field physiotherapist, orthopedic and in sports traumatology as non-invasive biophysical technique for the treatment of various musculoskeletal system pathologies.
WHAT ARE THEY FOR?
As mentioned above, shock waves can be used to treat tendon, bone, and muscle disorders, bone regeneration disorders, contractures, fibrosis pain, and other conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. Specifically, these include: tendinitis; capsulitis; plantar fasciitis; and heel pain.
Depending on the specialist's indications and the patient's clinical assessment, shockwave therapy may represent a valid alternative to surgery. Furthermore, this type of treatment does not interfere with other types of physical therapy.
HOW THEY WORK
Shockwaves are simply acoustic waves that, during treatment, exploit their mechanical action to generate a kind of "micro-massage" on cells and tissues. This massage can stimulate certain biological and cellular reactions that lead to healing.
There are two types of waves:
• focal extracorporeal shock waves: transmitted to the tissues through an interface that adapts to the skin with applicators of a soft and elastic consistency;
• radial (or ballistic) waves: a metal applicator is provided, upon contact with the skin, which performs a direct percussion action.
THE EFFECTS
The use of shock waves generates several effects. The main ones are: anti-inflammatory, anti-edema, pain-relieving and regenerative. Furthermore, they help improve microcirculation at a local level.
WHEN ARE THEY CONTRAINDICATED?
Although they must be performed by a specialist who will evaluate their possible use and the contraindicated cases, shock waves are almost free of side effects.
