8 EXTRACORPOREAL SHOCKWAVE THERAPY (ESWT)

Question 1

PHYSIOLOGY OF ESWT

Answer 1

Sound waves of high peak pressure and short duration.

Question 2

HIGH-ENERGY VS LOW-ENERGY ESWT

Answer 2

High-energy: more expensive, more effective for musculoskeletal issues.
Low-energy: less expensive, more comfortable.

Question 3

ESWT INDICATIONS

Answer 3

Originally used to treat urinary stones.

Pain relief.
Tendinopathies.
Enthesis: tendon meets the bone.

Question 4

ESWT CONTRAINIDICATIONS

Answer 4

Pregnancy.
Over large blood vessels and nerves.
Implanted devices.
Open wounds.
Joint replacements.
Active Epiphysis, stricter than with other modalities.
Thrombosis or blood clotting disorders.
Infection.
Malignancy.
Impaired mental capacity.