The therapist first conducts a detailed medical history interview with the patient to learn about the history of the symptoms and to gain important additional information by asking specific questions. In addition, the pain zone is localised by palpation.
The treatment itself takes place in the therapist's practice and is performed on an outpatient basis – the patient can therefore leave the practice immediately afterwards. During the treatment the patient sits or lies down. Before the shock wave therapy, the afflicted area is usually precisely localised by ultrasound, X-ray or palpation.
At the beginning of a therapy session, the therapist applies an ultrasound gel to the area to be treated. This is done so that the shock waves can be introduced into the body without energy loss. Then the therapist starts the shock wave system and treats the pain zone with the therapy head of the handpiece.
The shock waves are now transmitted into the body. Depending on the type of device and the indication, approx. 1500 to 2000 shock waves are delivered.
Good to know: ESWT is one of the »non-invasive« treatment options in the field of pain therapy, i.e. the shock waves penetrate the skin and tissue without damaging them.
To read more: Duration of therapy
