Latest Trends in Physical Therapy: Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy

Abstract

Extracorporeal Shockwave therapy is a scientifically-based therapeutic modality used for treating variety of musculoskeletal disorders. This medical tool is gradually paving its way among the armamentarium of interventions for musculoskeletal conditions, along with its pros and cons. As mirrored by the valuable evidence from the contemporary studies, pending queries await to be resolved related to the mechanism of action of this treatment, the optimal therapy protocol, frequency of sessions, amount of energy applied. For satisfactory and effective alleviation of symptoms, there is need for such type of differential treatment which may contribute to make patient’s condition better. Shockwave therapy is found to be effective for the treatment of tendinopathies, as it may elicit an anti-inflammatory and analgesic response, thus helps in regenerating tissue. Shockwaves are high-pressure acoustic waves that can minimize the enthesopathic pain and increase functionality of patients. This intervention is used as alternative therapy for calcified and non-calcified rotator cuff tendinopathy, Achilles or patellar tendinopathy thus it reduces the need for surgery. These are considered as common medical conditions and the physical therapy rehabilitation plays a significantly important role to recover these patients. The rehabilitation program of patients having tendinopathy creates an immense challenge for rehabilitation specialists and therapists.