Member May 2026: Advances in Shockwave Therapy for Management of Musculoskeletal Conditions (On-Demand)-Session Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

This member community session provided an overview of advances in shockwave therapy for musculoskeletal conditions, emphasizing both evidence and practical use. Speakers clarified terminology, distinguishing true extracorporeal shockwave therapy (focused shockwave) from radial pressure wave devices, which are often mislabeled as “shockwave” in practice. They explained the different device types, energy settings, and biological mechanisms, including mechanotransduction, neovascularization, calcification disruption, collagen stimulation, and pain modulation through hyperstimulation analgesia.<br /><br />The session reviewed consensus guidelines and highlighted growing evidence for a wide range of indications, especially plantar fasciopathy, lateral epicondylopathy, calcific rotator cuff tendinopathy, Achilles tendinopathy, gluteal and proximal hamstring tendinopathy, knee osteoarthritis, adhesive capsulitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, spasticity, and certain bone conditions such as delayed union or nonunion fractures. Speakers stressed that shockwave is non-invasive, generally safe, and often best used as part of a broader rehabilitation plan rather than as a stand-alone treatment.<br /><br />Procedural recommendations included choosing energy levels based on tissue type, using clinical focusing to localize treatment, typically performing 3–5 sessions, avoiding local anesthesia when possible, holding NSAIDs around treatment, and continuing physical therapy. Post-procedure guidance noted that patients can usually return to normal activity quickly, though temporary soreness, bruising, or paresthesias may occur. The session also emphasized careful documentation, patient counseling, and awareness of contraindications such as active infection or malignancy.

Keywords

shockwave therapy

extracorporeal shockwave therapy

radial pressure wave

musculoskeletal conditions

plantar fasciopathy

tendinopathy

calcific rotator cuff

knee osteoarthritis

mechanotransduction

rehabilitation

contraindications