What is radial shockwave therapy?
Radial shockwave therapy is a modern, non-invasive treatment method that is widely used in orthopaedics and rehabilitation. It is often used to treat musculoskeletal disorders and offers an effective alternative to invasive surgical procedures.
How radial shockwave therapy works
Radial shockwave therapy uses pressure-wave impulses that are directed at the affected areas of the body. These impulses stimulate the body’s own healing processes by promoting blood circulation and supporting tissue regeneration.
- Frequency: 1-21 Hz
- Pressure: 1-5 bar
- Penetration depth: 2-40 mm
The mechanical waves are generated by a hand-held device and transmitted to the skin via an applicator. The energy spreads radially from the point of impact and therefore also reaches deeper layers of tissue.
Areas of application for radial shockwave therapy
Radial shockwave therapy is used for a wide range of orthopaedic complaints and injuries. It is particularly effective for:
- Tendon inflammation (tendinitis), such as Achilles tendinopathy and jumper’s knee
- Muscle and tendon injuries
- Calcific shoulder
- Epicondylitis (tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow)
It can also be used to treat shoulder pain and shoulder osteoarthritis (omarthrosis) by relieving painful symptoms and improving mobility.
Thanks to its broad range of applications and its effective pain-relieving action, radial shockwave therapy has established itself as a valuable method in modern orthopaedics. For more detailed information on specific indications and treatment procedures, it is worth taking a look at our other articles, for example on tendon therapy or osteoarthritis therapy.
Benefits of radial shockwave therapy
Radial shockwave therapy offers numerous benefits for patients with a wide variety of complaints. This innovative treatment method is frequently used in orthopaedics and shows impressive results.
Pain relief and reduction of inflammation
One of the most important benefits of radial shockwave therapy is its ability to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. The targeted application of shockwaves stimulates the body’s own healing processes, which leads to a reduction in pain and inflammation. This is particularly beneficial for patients with chronic complaints such as shoulder pain or tennis elbow.
- Pain reduction after therapy: 70%
- Reduction of inflammation after therapy: 65%
With targeted treatment using radial shockwaves, patients can often notice a significant improvement in their symptoms.
Regeneration and tissue stimulation
Another key benefit of radial shockwave therapy is its ability to promote regeneration and tissue stimulation. The shockwaves support the healing process by stimulating blood circulation and metabolism in the treated tissue. In patients with injuries such as a collarbone fracture or calcific shoulder, this can lead to faster healing.
- Regeneration after therapy: 75%
- Tissue stimulation after therapy: 80%
By promoting the natural healing processes, radial shockwave therapy helps patients to restore their function and quality of life more quickly.
For further information on specific applications and benefits of radial shockwave therapy, please visit our pages on osteoarthritis therapy and cartilage regeneration therapy.
Focused high-energy shockwave therapy
Focused high-energy shockwave therapy is an advanced method for treating various musculoskeletal complaints. Compared with radial shockwave therapy, this method offers specific advantages and is used for different indications.
Differences from radial shockwave therapy
Compared with radial shockwave therapy (RSWT), focused high-energy shockwave therapy (ESWT) is characterised by deeper penetration and higher energy intensity. These differences allow for more targeted treatment of deeper tissue structures and stubborn complaints.
- Radial shockwave therapy (RSWT): penetration depth superficial to moderately deep; energy intensity low to medium; area of application: superficial and moderately deep structures
- Focused high-energy shockwave therapy (ESWT): penetration depth deep; energy intensity high; area of application: deep-lying tissue structures and chronic complaints
Focused high-energy shockwave therapy uses focused waves that are aimed precisely at the painful area. This allows for more precise treatment and can often achieve significant progress after just a few sessions. Further information on radial shockwave therapy can be found in our article on radial shockwave therapy.
Indications for focused high-energy shockwave therapy
Focused high-energy shockwave therapy is used for a wide range of indications, particularly for long-term and chronic conditions. The main areas of application include:
- Chronic tendon inflammation: for example Achilles tendinitis, tennis elbow (see surgery for epicondylitis)
- Calcific shoulder: deposits in the shoulder (see calcific shoulder)
- Heel spur: painful inflammation of the heel
- Non-unions (pseudarthrosis): delayed bone healing after fractures (see bone fractures)
- Shoulder complaints: various chronic and degenerative shoulder complaints (see shoulder pain and shoulder osteoarthritis)
The targeted use of high-energy shockwaves can reduce inflammatory processes and increase blood circulation and metabolism in the treated area, which promotes healing. It is important that you discuss the treatment options with your orthopaedic specialist and consider which method is best suited to your specific complaints.
Further information on applications and treatment options can also be found in our articles on osteoarthritis therapy and tendon therapy.
Treatment procedure and duration
Preparing for the therapy
Preparing for radial and focused high-energy shockwave therapy plays an important role in the success of the treatment. Before the first session, you should receive comprehensive information about the therapy and how it is carried out.
These are the steps of the preparation:
- Initial consultation: a detailed discussion with the treating doctor, in which your complaints and medical history are discussed.
- Examination: a thorough physical examination, possibly supplemented by imaging procedures, in order to determine the exact location and cause of the pain.
- Information about the procedure: the doctor explains the procedure, the mode of action and the possible risks and side effects of shockwave therapy.
- Consent form: after detailed explanation, you sign a consent form for the therapy to be carried out.
Treatment and aftercare
Carrying out the therapy:
Radial and focused high-energy shockwave therapy is carried out over several sessions. Each session lasts about 20 to 30 minutes and comprises the following steps:
- Positioning: you are positioned comfortably so that the areas to be treated are easily accessible.
- Applying the gel film: a special contact gel is applied to the skin to ensure optimal transmission of the shockwaves.
- Positioning the device: the therapist places the therapy device on the affected area and starts the treatment with suitable parameters.
- Delivery of the shockwaves: the shockwaves are applied evenly to the affected region. You may feel a light tapping or crackling sensation.
Aftercare:
Appropriate aftercare is important following the treatment in order to secure the success of the treatment and to minimise possible side effects.
Here are some important aspects of aftercare:
- Cooling: immediately after the session, the affected region can be cooled to reduce swelling and pain.
- Rest: you should rest the treated area for the first few days and avoid excessive strain.
- Follow-up appointments: regular follow-up appointments with the doctor to monitor the progress of healing and to adjust further treatments if necessary.
- Physiotherapy: additional physiotherapy measures can support healing and secure long-term results.
The frequency and duration of the treatment can vary, so it is important to discuss your individual situation and progress closely with your treating doctor. Further information on the frequency of treatments and on potential risks and side effects can be found in our section on effects and prospects of success.
Effects and prospects of success
Radial and focused high-energy shockwave therapy have proven to be effective methods for treating pain and promoting tissue regeneration. In order to better understand the prospects of success, the frequency of treatments and the potential risks and side effects are examined below.
Frequency of treatments
The frequency of treatments varies depending on the indication and the individual patient response. As a rule, several sessions are required to achieve optimal results. Typical treatment plans are as follows:
- Tennis elbow: 3-6 sessions, interval of 1 week
- Heel spur: 3-5 sessions, interval of 1-2 weeks
- Calcific shoulder: 4-6 sessions, interval of 1 week
- Jumper’s knee: 3-5 sessions, interval of 1-2 weeks
- Achilles tendinitis: 3-5 sessions, interval of 1 week
- Plantar fasciitis: 3-5 sessions, interval of 1-2 weeks
Potential risks and side effects
Although radial and focused high-energy shockwave therapy are generally considered safe, side effects can occur here as with any medical treatment. The potential risks and side effects include:
- Mild pain or discomfort during and after the treatment
- Redness and swelling in the treated area
- Haematomas or bruising
- Temporary sensitivity
In rare cases, more serious side effects such as tissue damage or nerve injuries can occur. It is important to seek comprehensive advice from a specialist before the treatment and to weigh up the possible risks. More information on specific indications can be found under calcific shoulder and shoulder pain.
Careful selection of patients and adjustment of the treatment parameters can minimise the risk of unwanted effects. Patient education and adherence to the aftercare instructions also help to maximise the safety and effectiveness of the therapy. You can find more on this topic under sports medicine consultation and osteoarthritis therapy.
