ORTHOPAEDICS INTERNATIONAL
Introduction
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) was first introduced in the 1980s for treating kidney stones. Over time, its applications expanded into orthopaedics and sports medicine due to its effectiveness in promoting tissue healing and pain relief.
ESWT utilizes sound waves generated through hydraulic, magnetic, or chemical means from specialized machines. These waves are applied externally to stimulate biological responses in musculoskeletal structures.
Types of ESWT
There are two main types of ESWT used in orthopaedics and sports medicine:
- Focused Shockwaves: These deliver high-intensity, short-duration impulses that penetrate deeper tissues and target a specific area with precision.
- Radial Shockwaves: These have a broader, more diffused impact and are generally used for treating larger surface areas.
Focused shockwaves require accurate localization of the affected structures, ideally through ultrasound guidance, to maximize effectiveness while minimizing the risk of tissue damage.
How ESWT Works
The therapeutic benefits of ESWT stem from its ability to:
- Stimulate cellular signalling pathways that promote tissue regeneration.
- Encourage the formation of new blood vessels, improving circulation.
- Modulate pain pathways, reducing discomfort and enhancing recovery.
Clinical Applications of ESWT
ESWT has shown significant benefits in treating various musculoskeletal conditions, including:
- Heel pain: Plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy.
- Knee pain: Patellar and quadriceps tendinopathies.
- Hip pain: Gluteal tendinopathy.
- Elbow pain: Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis).
- Shoulder pain: Rotator cuff tendinopathy.
- Fracture healing: Enhancing bone healing in fractures and avascular necrosis.
Treatment Process & Effectiveness
ESWT is a non-invasive, cost-effective treatment with an excellent safety profile when administered by trained professionals. A typical treatment plan consists of 3-5 sessions, each lasting 15-20 minutes, spaced 1-3 weeks apart.
At Orthopaedics International, we use ultrasound guidance to precisely localize the treatment area and tailor the therapy to individual patient needs. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure, with no downtime required.
Clinical studies suggest that 80-90% of patients experience significant improvement within 2-4 weeks, with low recurrence rates, especially when combined with appropriate physiotherapy.
Conclusion
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy offers a non-surgical, effective solution for various musculoskeletal conditions. If you are experiencing persistent joint or tendon pain, ESWT may be a viable option.
At Orthopaedics International, our team of highly experienced specialists is dedicated to helping you regain mobility and live pain-free. Schedule a consultation with Dr Ong Joo Haw, our Specialist Sports Physician today to explore how ESWT can support your recovery and get you back to doing what you love.
