The Role of Shockwaves in Musculoskeletal Disorders - Basic Science

Description

The VTT is a transcript of a webinar discussing the applications and implications of shockwave therapy in treating various musculoskeletal pathologies. It marks the beginning of a collaboration between Ortho TV and the ONLAT Latin American Federation, with plans for five webinars throughout the year. The webinar features notable experts, including Dr. Leonardo Guiloff, who introduces the topic of shockwave therapy, outlining its significance in regenerative medicine. He highlights the role of shockwaves in treating conditions like musculoskeletal pain, wound healing, and various tissue injuries, emphasizing its clinical applications.



Dr. Achim Loske, a physicist, discusses the physics of shockwaves, providing detailed information on their characteristics, including the differences between electromagnetic and mechanical waves. He explains how shockwaves require a medium to propagate and discusses pressure profiles, addressing the nuances in measurement between devices that produce radial pressure waves versus those that employ focused shockwaves.



Additionally, the discussion includes the biological mechanisms behind the efficacy of shockwave therapy, led by experts like Dr. Christina Schuh, who details how shockwaves can promote angiogenesis and modulate inflammation. They also address safety, potential complications, and the importance of precise diagnostics and treatment protocols.



The webinar's format allows for interactive Q&A sessions, where participants inquire about specific cases and share experiences, underscoring the practical realities faced by clinicians using shockwave therapy. Throughout the discussions, there is a consensus on the need for skilled operators to navigate the complexities of treatment indications, contraindications, and the variations in responses based on energy levels applied during the shockwave therapy.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-220766

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