What is shock wave therapy?

Shock Wave Therapy (SWT) is a non-invasive treatment method that uses high-energy sound waves to promote healing processes in the body. This form of therapy is often used to treat orthopaedic complaints, chronic pelvic pain (CPPS) and injuries, as well as regeneratively in urology, e.g. for ED (erectile dysfunction) and IPP (induratio penis plastica). There are two main types of shock waves: focused and radial. Focused shock waves penetrate deeper into the tissue, while radial shock waves have a more superficial effect.

Areas of application for shock wave therapy

1. Orthopaedics and sports medicine

• Plantar fasciitis : Treatment of pain in the heel and sole of the foot, often caused by overloading or incorrect footwear.
• Tennis elbow (Epicondylitis) : Relieves pain and promotes healing in cases of inflammation of the tendon insertions on the elbow.
• Achilles tendinitis : reats inflammation and micro-injuries of the Achilles tendon.
• Shoulder pain : SWT can reduce pain and improve mobility in cases of calcific shoulder (tendinitis calcarea) and other shoulder complaints.

2. Chronic pain treatment

• Back pain : Relieves chronic lower back pain by improving circulation and promoting the healing of soft tissue.
• Neck and shoulder pain : Treats tension and muscular problems in the neck and shoulder area.

3. Wound healing and dermatology

• Diabetic foot ulcers: Promotes the healing of chronic wounds in diabetics by improving microcirculation.
• Scar treatment : Can improve the appearance of scar tissue and increase the elasticity of the skin.

4. Urology

• Erectile dysfunction : Some studies show that SWT can improve blood flow in the penis and thus restore erectile function.

Advantages of shock wave therapy

1. Non-invasive treatment

• No surgery required : SWT is a painless alternative to surgery and can be performed on an outpatient basis.
• No side effects : As this is a non-invasive therapy, no significant side effects are to be expected.

2. Effectiveness and quick results

• Pain relief : Many patients report significant pain relief after just a few sessions.
• Accelerated healing : SWT promotes blood circulation and regeneration of the tissue, which shortens the healing time.

3. Broad application spectrum

• Versatility : The therapy can be used for a variety of muscular and orthopaedic complaints.
• Individual customization : The intensity and frequency of the shock waves can be adapted to the specific needs of the patient.

4. Long-term results

• Sustainable healing: SWT can not only provide short-term relief, but also support long-term healing processes and prevent relapses.

Conclusion

Shockwave therapy offers an effective, non-invasive method of treating various orthopaedic conditions and chronic pain. With minimal side effects and rapid pain relief, it is a valuable option for many patients. Thanks to its versatility and ability to penetrate deep into the tissue, shockwave therapy supports healing and improves quality of life in the long term.