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suggests that extracorporeal shockwave treatment (ESWT) is safe and effective for treating several musculoskeletal disorders. ä Two types of technical principles are usually included in ESWT: focused ESWT (F-ESWT) and radial pressure waves (RPW). These 2 technologies differ with respect to their generation devices, physical characteristics, and mechanism of action but share several indications. ä Strong evidence supports the use of ESWT in calcifying tendinopathy of the shoulder and plantar fasciitis. ä The best evidence for the use of ESWT was obtained with low to medium energy levels for tendon disorders as well as with a high energy level for tendon calcification and bone pathologies in a comprehensive rehabilitation framework.

Shockwave is a rapid, short duration acoustic wave that carries energy and can propagate through tissue medium. This kind of physical force can be a mechanical stimulus that induces biological effects in living tissue. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) acts as a mechanical stimulus which promotes biological healing processes through a mechanotransduction. The biological effects of ESWT are reported such as tissue regeneration, wound healing, angiogenesis, bone remodeling, and anti-inflammation. Until now, however, little is known about the basic mechanism of action of this type of therapy. This article describes the molecular mechanism on the current status of ESWT with pre-clinical and clinical applications for treating disorders in bone.

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