EXTRACORPOREAL SHOCK-WAVE THERAPY - EXPER IMENTAL BASIS, CLINICAL-APPLICATION

The purpose of our studies was to investigate experimentally the dose- dependent effects of extracorporeal shock waves on tendon and bone and to unveil therapeutic possibilities in tendopathies and pseudarthrose s. In animal experiments, both positive and negative influences were e xerted by shock waves, depending on the initial situation and on the p ower of the applied shock waves. In prospective clinical trials positi ve effects were found in the treatment of persistent tennis elbow plan tar fasciitis, calcifying tendinitis, and pseudarthrosis. Our data sho w that extracorporeal shock waves may provide analgesic, resorptive an d osseoinductive reactions with nearly no side effects. However, the h igh cost of apparatus and staff prevents a routine application. Extrac orporeal shock waves thus remain a last alternative before the indicat ion is made for an operative procedure.