Unfocused Extracorporeal Shock Wave Treatment (abbreviated as ECSW or ESWT) is a medical procedure that involves the use of shock waves, which are high-energy pressure waves, to treat certain medical conditions. In ECSW, these shock waves are generated outside the body and then directed toward the targeted area within the body. The term "unfocused" refers to the fact that the shock waves are not tightly focused on a specific point like in focused ESWT, where they are concentrated on a precise target.
Unfocused ESWT is primarily used in the field of orthopedics, particularly for musculoskeletal conditions such as Plantar Fasciitis, Calcific Tendonitis, Achilles Tendinopathy, and recently wound care.
ESWT may stimulate the growth of new blood vessels (neovascularization) in damaged or injured tissues. Improved blood supply can enhance the delivery of oxygen, nutrients, and immune cells, promoting tissue healing.
Shock waves trigger cellular responses that lead to increased production of growth factors and recruit stem cells. These substances play a role in tissue repair and regeneration.
ESWT can disrupt pain signaling pathways and decrease the sensitivity of nerve fibers. This may lead to a reduction in pain perception and improved comfort.
This therapy may influence the structure and alignment of collagen fibers within tendons, ligaments, and fascia. This remodeling process can contribute to tissue strength and improved mechanical properties.
ESWT has been associated with anti-inflammatory effects, reducing inflammation, and promoting a more favorable environment for healing.
ESWT has been suggested to activate stem cells in the treated area, facilitating tissue repair and regeneration.
Mesenchymal cells, which are key cells involved in tissue healing, may be activated, and produce a scaffolding that contribute to tissue repair.
As of September 2021, extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
EFFECTIVENESS: Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) has demonstrated effectiveness in various musculoskeletal conditions, with clinical research supporting its positive outcomes. Studies have shown that ESWT can lead to pain reduction, improved function, and enhanced quality of life for conditions such as plantar fasciitis and foot ulcerations. While effectiveness may vary among individuals and conditions, ESWT offers a non-invasive or minimally invasive option that has the potential to provide meaningful relief and promote natural healing processes.
MEDICAL NECESSITY: Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive medical procedure that has gained attention for its potential benefits in certain conditions. Its medical necessity is typically considered when other conservative treatments have been insufficient in providing relief or improving the patient's condition but starting to become a more first line treatment to heal soft tissues more quickly.
ESWT is believed to promote tissue regeneration and stimulate the body's natural healing processes. It can enhance blood circulation, stimulate the formation of new blood vessels, and promote tissue repair at the cellular level. This mechanism makes ESWT a potential option for conditions involving tissue damage or degeneration.
ESWT offers a non-invasive or minimally invasive alternative to surgical procedures. For patients who are not suitable candidates for surgery or wish to avoid invasive interventions, ESWT can provide a viable treatment option.
Addressing certain conditions with ESWT at an early stage can potentially prevent the progression of the condition and avoid the need for more aggressive treatments or surgeries later.
COST EFFECTIVENESS: ESWT may have upfront costs associated with the treatment sessions, equipment, and medical care. However, if ESWT is effective in reducing pain and improving function, it could lead to long-term cost savings by potentially avoiding the need for more invasive procedures, surgeries, or ongoing medical interventions.
The cost-effectiveness of ESWT can also be evaluated in terms of the improved quality of life and increased productivity that patients may experience if their symptoms are effectively managed. Reduced pain and improved function can lead to better work performance, increased activity levels, and a higher overall quality of life.
PEER-REVIEWED STUDIES: Gollwitzer, H., Diehl, P., von Korff, A. et al. A randomized, placebo-controlled trial of shock-wave therapy for plantar fasciitis. JAMA 296, 1903–1909 (2006). In this study, researchers investigated the efficacy of ESWT in treating plantar fasciitis, a common condition characterized by heel pain. The trial was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving a significant number of participants. The study concluded that ESWT provided statistically significant improvement in pain and function compared to a placebo treatment in patients with chronic plantar fasciitis.
Buchbinder, R., Ptasznik, R., Gordon, J., et al. (2002). Ultrasound-guided extracorporeal shock wave therapy for plantar fasciitis: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA, 288(11), 1364-1372. Researchers evaluated ultrasound guided ESWT for plantar fasciitis. Results here indicated potential benefit in reducing pain and improving function.
Rompe, J. D., Cacchio, A., & Weil, L. (2007). Plantar fascia‐specific stretching versus radial shock‐wave therapy as an initial treatment of plantar fasciopathy. Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, 89(6), 1413-1421. This study compared plantar fascia-specific stretching to radial shock-wave therapy for plantar fasciopathy. Outcomes suggested both approaches had positive effects.
Furia, J. P. (2007). High-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy as a treatment for insertional Achilles tendinopathy. American Journal of Sports Medicine, 35(8), 1317-1326. High-energy ESWT was explored as a treatment for insertional Achilles tendinopathy. The findings suggested potential effectiveness in managing the condition.