Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) in Munich: Non-Invasive Treatment for Orthopedic Pain

Medical Basics

What is extracorporeal shockwave therapy?

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) uses targeted high-energy sound impulses delivered from outside the body into the affected tissue. These mechanical stimuli influence local metabolic processes, promote circulation, and may activate biological healing mechanisms.

In orthopedics, ESWT is primarily used for chronic or therapy-resistant complaints where conservative measures alone have proven insufficient.

Which structures and processes are affected?

• Tendons and tendon insertions
• Muscle and fascial tissue
• Structures close to bone
• Circulation and local metabolic processes

Causes and Risk Factors

Conditions for which shockwave therapy is considered often result from:

• Chronic overuse of tendons and muscle insertions
• Degenerative changes in the musculoskeletal system
• Poor circulation in the affected tissue
• Calcium deposits in tendons or soft tissues
• Delayed healing after injuries

Typical Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on the affected structure, but commonly include:

• Activity-related or chronic pain
• Tenderness at tendon insertions
• Reduced mobility
• Morning stiffness or initial movement pain
• Recurring complaints despite rest

Distinction from Acute Conditions

In cases of acute injuries, inflammation with significant swelling, or systemic diseases, shockwave therapy is generally not indicated and requires separate medical evaluation.

Diagnostics

Before ESWT, structured diagnostics are carried out at the Gromer Orthopedic Clinic in Munich, including:

• Medical history: nature, duration, and progression of symptoms
• Clinical examination with functional assessment
• Imaging if needed (e.g., ultrasound)
• Review of previous treatments

The goal is to precisely locate the source of pain and assess whether ESWT is medically appropriate.

Treatment Options

Conservative Therapy

Shockwave therapy is usually used in addition to conservative measures, including:

• Physiotherapy and exercise treatment
• Load modification
• Pain management as indicated
• Physical therapy modalities

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)

The treatment is performed on an outpatient basis. After precisely locating the painful area, focused shockwaves are applied to the affected region. A session typically lasts about 10-20 minutes.

Multiple sessions are usually recommended — typically 3-6 treatments at intervals of about one week.

Progress and Prognosis

Studies and clinical observations often report significant pain relief after several sessions. Initial effects may be noticeable after 2-3 treatments. The long-lasting effect is based on biological regeneration processes and may last for months to years.

Aftercare

• Rest on the day of treatment
• No significant restrictions in daily activities thereafter
• Sports activity only after medical consultation
• Accompanying physiotherapy may be beneficial depending on the case

Conclusion

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy is a non-invasive, well-tolerated treatment option for selected chronic musculoskeletal complaints. At the Gromer Orthopedic Clinic in Munich, it is integrated into an individualized, conservative therapy concept following thorough diagnostics.