Title of study: Biological Mechanism of Musculoskeletal Shockwaves

Authors: Ching-Jen Wang, MD (The Department of Orthopedic Surgery Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Kaohsiung Taiwan), Feng-Sheng Wang, PhD (Medical Research Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Kaohsiung Taiwan) and Kuender D. Yang, MD, PhD (Medical Research Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Kaohsiung Taiwan)

This study aimed to investigate the effects of shockwave therapy on bone and tendon healing. The researchers used rabbits and treated one limb with shockwaves while the other limb received a sham treatment. They then examined the tissues to evaluate the effects of shockwave therapy on bone and tendon healing.

The results showed that shockwave therapy improved bone strength and mass and increased the tensile strength of the graft at the tendon-bone interface. Shockwave therapy also induced the growth of new blood vessels in the treated area, which is essential for healing. This effect was observed in both bone and tendon tissues and at the tendon-bone interface.

The study also found that the effects of shockwave therapy were time- and dose-dependent. This means that higher doses of shockwave therapy or more frequent treatments may lead to even better results.

The findings of this study suggest that shockwave therapy may be a promising treatment for bone and tendon injuries. It stimulates the growth of new blood vessels, which can help to improve blood supply and promote healing. The results of this study could have significant implications for the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries in humans.

Click here to read more.