Shock waves are acoustic waves of high frequency and energy , similar to ultrasound but with a higher frequency and density, which are applied to the injured tissue in order to recover it.
Shock waves interact with the tissue promoting its accelerated repair and cell growth , and its main advantages are the relief of pain and the recovery of mobility. In addition, as it is not a surgical therapy, it accelerates the recovery of painful injuries.
In eswt treatment in singapore, 1 to 4 sound waves are applied per second in a gel that transmits them in one direction through a transmitter. The projectile’s kinetic energy, generated by the compressed air, is transferred to the head at the end of the applicator and into the tissue. There are two types of shock wave devices that differ mainly in the way the acoustic wave propagates at the time of its application.
Radial shock waves and focal shock waves
Focal shock waves : In focal waves the propagation tends to focus, as its name indicates, at a point, transmitting all the energy to a very deep and specific point. For this reason, these focal shock wave devices are used to dissolve and eliminate the aforementioned kidney stones. Focal shock waves are used for structures that are very deep up to about 12 centimeters and require very high energy.
Radial shock waves: The propagation of radio waves tends to be expansive. The energy is not focused on an end point and its efficiency in the transmission of energy begins to diminish slightly and progressively at a depth of 3 centimeters. This type of shock wave is the most used in physiotherapy because most of the target structure (tendons, muscles, bone, ligaments) are not found at great depth. By not focusing on one point, the associated risks or side effects are less.