Shock Waves:
Regenerative Power.

The handpiece contains a projectile accelerated by compressed air that strikes a transmitter. Kinetic energy transforms into radial acoustic energy. This pressure wave (up to 5 bar) creates mechanical stress in tissues (cavitation effect) that breaks calcium crystal deposits and stimulates endothelial growth factors (VEGF) for new capillary creation.

Chronic tendinopathies are characterized by poor vascularization and a "blocked" repair process. Shock waves "re-acutize" the injury in a controlled manner, transforming a chronic degenerative condition into an acute regenerative phase, forcing the body to restart natural healing processes with renewed vigor.

Shock wave results are generally durable and progressive. Peak efficacy is reached 6-12 weeks after the last treatment, when tissue regeneration is complete. For chronic orthopedic conditions (e.g. tendinopathies), benefits can last 12-24 months or more. It's important to correct underlying biomechanical causes (posture, overuse) to prevent relapse. For physio-aesthetic treatments, a maintenance cycle every 6-8 months is recommended.

It depends on the type of prosthesis and treatment area. Radial shock waves do NOT interfere with stable joint prostheses (e.g. hip, knee prostheses, titanium screws) if treatment is performed away from the prosthesis. However, it is contraindicated to treat directly over non-fully osseointegrated prostheses, cardiac pacemakers or implanted electronic devices. In these cases, preliminary medical evaluation is necessary.

In the 24-48 hours following treatment:

• • Avoid intense effort on treated area (no competitive sports)
• • No NSAIDs - they block the regenerative process we want to stimulate
• • No ice - for the same reason
• • Avoid deep massage on the area
• • OK for light movement - walking, gentle stretching (promotes circulation)
• • Drink plenty of water - facilitates toxin elimination

Mild pain or soreness in following days is normal: it indicates the regenerative process is active.

In Italy, shock waves are not generally covered by public health insurance in private clinics, but may be provided in some public hospitals with waiting lists. Many supplementary health insurance plans (e.g. Unisalute, Fasi, previmedical) partially or fully reimburse treatment if prescribed by an orthopedic doctor with specific diagnosis. We recommend checking your policy. We always issue tax-deductible medical invoices (19% for income tax declaration).

Absolutely yes. Shock waves are supported by over 2000 peer-reviewed scientific publications. International guidelines (ISMST - International Society for Medical Shockwave Treatment) recommend shock waves as first-line treatment for:

• • Plantar fasciitis (Level 1A Evidence)
• • Lateral epicondylitis (Level 1A Evidence)
• • Calcific shoulder tendinopathy (Level 1B Evidence)
• • Pseudoarthrosis (Level 2A Evidence)

Clinical efficacy is estimated at 65-90% depending on the condition. RCT (Randomized Controlled Trials) studies demonstrate superiority over traditional physical therapy and cortisone for many chronic conditions.