Title: Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy as an Adjunct Wound Treatment: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Authors: Robert Dymarek, PhD, PT; Tomasz Halski, PhD, PT; Kuba Ptaszkowski, PhD, PT; Lucyna Slupska, PhD, PT; Prof. Joanna Rosinczuk, PhD, MSc; and Prof. Jakub Taradaj, PhD, PT

Researchers conducted a systematic review of the literature to assess the effectiveness of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) as a treatment for complex wounds. They analyzed 13 studies involving a total of 1,442 patients with various types of wounds. Out of these, seven were randomized controlled trials, which are considered the gold standard in research.

ESWT involves applying shock waves externally to the affected area once or twice a week. The therapy uses low or medium energy levels and different types of generators. The results showed that ESWT is a noninvasive and generally painless procedure, with few reported safety concerns.

Compared to standard topical treatments, sham ESWT, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, the controlled clinical studies revealed statistically significant differences in wound closure rates. This indicates that ESWT can accelerate the healing process.

Click here to read more.