What is Shockwave Therapy (SWT)?
Shockwave therapy (SWT) is based on the use of acoustic waves with a high pressure amplitude. They are more intense than ultrasound, and have no thermal effect. These waves, similar to those created by a rock thrown into water, generate shock waves. They propagate around the impact, promoting beneficial effects on body tissues.
Physiological effects of shockwave therapy
Shockwaves exert their action at a cellular level. This is made possible by a mechanism known as mechanotransduction, which modifies cell activity. This treatment primarily targets myotendinous structures (muscles and tendons) as well as myofascial structures (muscles and fascia). Effects include improved blood flow, which accelerates tissue healing. It also regulates inflammation, making it easier to manage chronic inflammation. SWT also helps relaunch the healing phase in chronic conditions. It stimulates tissue regeneration and provides pain relief, while reducing muscle hypertonicity. This can be beneficial for spastic muscles.
Main indications for shockwave therapy
SWT is particularly indicated for treating conditions such as tendinopathies (such as Achilles tendon and rotator cuff tendonitis). It can also treat capsulitis, soft tissue calcifications, carpal tunnel syndrome and more.
Benefits of shockwave therapy
In addition to the physiological effects mentioned above, SWT is an effective complementary option to conventional treatments. It can be used to treat conditions such as chronic inflammation, persistent pain, symptom stagnation without progression, and soft-tissue lesions. One of the main advantages of SWT is its ability to act as a complement to other therapeutic modalities, optimizing overall results. This treatment can also be particularly beneficial for the management of hypertonia and muscle spasticity, as well as trigger points.
Possible side effects
To date, the scientific literature reports no major side effects associated with shockwave therapy. It is essential to consult one of our healthcare professionals before starting SWT to determine whether it is suitable for your specific condition.
Contraindications to shockwave therapy
Certain situations may constitute contraindications to shockwave therapy. Absolute contraindications include cognitive disorders. Relative contraindications, which depend on the individual case, include conditions such as deep vein thrombosis, the presence of electronic implants, local infection, tumors, pregnancy and recent radiotherapy treatments.
Treatment principles
The number of sessions required and the frequency of treatment vary according to the indication and the patient’s tissue response. In general, professionals recommend between 3 and 6 sessions, with intervals of 5 to 10 days between each one. Effects can be felt from the very first session, and continuous improvement can be observed up to 12 months after treatment. Therapists adjust the duration and intensity of sessions according to the patient’s tolerance, enabling gradual adaptation and personalized follow-up.
Conclusion: The benefits of shockwave therapy
Shockwave therapy offers many advantages: it’s fast, non-invasive and an effective alternative to drugs. In just a few sessions (usually between 1 and 5), patients often experience a significant reduction in pain and a marked improvement in their condition.
