High Energy Shock Wave Therapy: Evolution, Benefits, and Differences.

In the field of musculoskeletal and soft tissue healing, High Energy Shockwave Therapy (HESWT) has become a game-changing therapeutic approach with roots in the technology of the early 19th century, this non-invasive therapy has undergone tremendous evolution to become an effective instrument for treating a wide range of chronic illnesses and injuries. This overview will cover the history of high-energy shockwave therapy, its benefits, how it varies from low-energy options, and why it's still an extremely high energy shock wave therapy evolution benefits and differences effective choice for correcting an orthopedic injury or issue.

The History of Shock wave Therapy

Shockwave therapy has its roots in the creation of lithotripsy, a procedure that was first used in the early 19th century. Kidney stones are treated with lithotripsy, which uses high energy shock waves to shatter the stones into smaller pieces inside the kidney that can move more readily through the urinary tract. This ground-breaking method established the groundwork for investigating the wider applications of high energy shockwave technology while also representing a notable breakthrough in urology. 

1. Early Findings and Observations

Researchers noticed that shockwaves did more than only break up kidney stones as lithotripsy developed. They observed that shockwave delivery to the target location induced tissue regeneration and the development of new blood vessels. These results were revolutionary in that they showed shockwaves may be used for therapeutic purposes other than those for which they were intended. This prompted a number of investigations to learn more about the potential applications of shockwaves to aid in the healing of tendons, muscles, and bones, among other tissues. 

2. Switching to Orthopaedics

Researchers and medical professionals realized shockwave technology had the potential to cure musculoskeletal disorders, so they started looking into its uses in orthopedics. High Energy ShockWave Therapy (HESWT), also known as Orthotripsy, is the new term for the technology that was originally known as lithotripsy but was modified for use in orthopedic settings. This adaptation concentrated on using high-energy shock waves to promote tissue repair in injured areas and treat a range of orthopedic conditions, including non-union fractures, chronic tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, achilles tendonitis, patellar injuries, hip, back, shoulder, elbow, etc.

The Explosion of High-Powered Shockwave Therapy

High-energy shockwave therapy experienced considerable growth in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Several significant advancements occurred during this period that aided in HESWT's widespread use and appeal.

1. Introduction of CPT Codes

A significant turning point in the history of high-energy shockwave therapy occurred with the use of Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes in the late 1990s and early 2000s. These codes made it possible for medical professionals to bill for HESWT procedures and receive $6,000 in reimbursement for the procedure. High-energy shock wave therapy became a feasible treatment option for many patients due to insurance coverage, which raised interest in and use of the technology.

2. Introduction of Modern Equipment

Advanced high-energy shockwave devices, like the "Ossatron," were developed, which further aided in the expansion of HESWT. These tools were made to target specific locations with strong shockwaves, which makes it easier to treat a variety of musculoskeletal disorders. High-energy shockwave therapy became more appealing when surgeons and other professionals adopted this technology and could provide their patients with a minimally invasive substitute for conventional surgical techniques. 

3. Surge in Popularity

High-energy shockwave therapy (HESWT) has been more widely available in practice due to the favorable clinical outcomes and insurance coverage's financial incentives. High-energy shockwave equipment became widely available in orthopedic and rehabilitative medicine, thanks to the investments made by numerous physicians and clinics. HESWT's reputation as a useful tool for treating injuries and chronic pain was bolstered by its capacity to offer efficient, non-invasive, non-surgical therapy choices. 

Challenges and Changes in the Market

Despite the initial success of high-energy shockwave therapy, several challenges emerged that impacted its availability and use.

1. Insurance Reclassification

Insurance companies stopped paying for high-energy shoc kwave therapy procedures in 2001 because they had classed the treatment as experimental. The reclassification significantly impacted the HESWT sector by decreasing the treatment's commercial viability. A decrease in the usage of high-energy shockwave therapy resulted from financial difficulties faced by numerous practices and manufacturers who were forced to withdraw from the market.

2. Rise of Low-Power Devices

Low-energy shockwave devices hit the market. These devices were touted to be competitive substitutes for high-energy shockwave therapy, with prices typically ranging from $20,000 to $45,000. Practitioners started charging $400–$500 each session for multiple-session treatments using the low-energy devices, which generated shockwaves using mostly air compressor technology. 

3. Confusion and Misconceptions

Patients become confused when low-energy shock wave devices were introduced. Many people were misled into thinking that these devices, with their lower energy output and decreased therapeutic effectiveness, provided benefits comparable to high-intensity shockwave therapy. Patients who had low-energy treatments with little effect and had to later seek high-energy shockwave therapy to get the required results became frustrated due to this uncertainty. 

Comparing High Energy and Low-Energy Shockwave Therapy

The difference between high-energy and low-energy shockwave therapies lies in their energy levels and therapeutic effects. Understanding these differences is important for making informed decisions about treatment options.

1. Energy Levels and Effectiveness

High-Energy Shock Wave Therapy delivered Strong shockwaves, which profoundly penetrate tissues exactly where the injury or issue is even at great depths, reducing discomfort, and enhancing function. The output of high energy promotes blood flow, cellular repair, utalizing the body's own healing mechanisms. For the treatment of tendon issues as well as muscloskelital injury and non-union fractures, tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, and chronic pain, making HESWT extremely effective.

On the other hand Low-energy shockwave devices generate shockwaves with a notably lower energy. The results of these Hand-Held Devices are frequently not immediately apparent, and their therapeutic benefits are generally milder. Superficial issues that are in the acute stage In general, these low energy shock wave machines can have an effect on, like sprains. High-Energy Shock Wave Therapy is more effective than low-energy treatments at addressing the underlying causes of pain and injury, even though the latter can provide some relief.

2. Treatment Duration and Cost

In comparison to low-energy choices, high-energy shockwave therapy is a single-procedure treatment that is extremely effective and gets tremendous results consistently. It is extremely effective for  patients who usually see noticeable improvements after the Procedure. High-Energy ShockWave Therapy is also affordable, offering great value given its advantages.

On the other hand, low-energy shockwave treatments require multiple sessions, which can cost more than a High Energy Shock Wave Procedure; the multiple sessions  take up a lot of time. Those who choose low-energy devices might find that their treatments result in less improvement with more time and money spent. 

3. Safety and Efficacy

The safety record of high-energy shockwave therapy is well-established, and its effectiveness has been extensively tested. It has been proven that the technology significantly improves a number of musculoskeletal disorders.

Low-energy shockwave devices may also be safe, but their reduced effectiveness raises concerns about whether they provide sufficient therapeutic benefit for the conditions they are intended to treat. Patients should be cautious about low-energy devices and ensure they are receiving treatment from reputable practitioners who understand the limitations of these technologies.

The Future of High Energy Shock Wave Therapy

For many patients, high-energy shockwave therapy remains a beneficial treatment option despite the obstacles and changes in the market. Future studies and technological developments could improve HESWT's effectiveness and accessibility even more. 

1. Technological Advancements

Shockwave therapy is a constantly developing field, with research efforts concentrated on advancing the technology and broadening its uses. New advancements could result in improved treatment regimens, more effective devices, and a wider spectrum of disorders that can be effectively treated with HESWT.

2. Increasing Awareness

There is potential that high-energy shock wave therapy will become more popular as patients and professionals learn more about the distinctions between high- and low-energy shockwave treatments. Patients can be helped to receive the best possible treatment for their needs by being informed about the advantages and drawbacks of various shockwave technologies.

3. Expanding Applications

The uses of high-energy shockwave therapy may not be limited to treating soft tissue and musculoskeletal disorders. Its potential to treat more medical ailments and improve general health and wellness is being investigated by researchers. Technology may present new opportunities as it develops to enhance patient outcomes and broaden its therapeutic application. 

summary

With a long history, high energy shockwave therapy is a highly effective treatment for a variety of soft tissue and musculoskeletal disorders. HESWT is a non-invasive therapy that has demonstrated effectiveness in correcting an orthopedic injury or issue, accelerating healing, returning range and reducing pain.

While low-energy shockwave devices create confusion and difficulties, the true orthopedic modality, high-energy shockwave therapy is still the better alternative for patients looking for non-invasive, single procedure treatment that actually corrects the injury or issue. Making the best judgements and getting the greatest results requires an understanding of the distinctions between high- and low-energy shockwave therapy.

High-energy shockwave therapy is unique in the realm of shockwave therapy since it can provide notable therapeutic advantages. A better and more pain-free life may be within your reach if you are thinking about the benefits of high-energy shockwave therapy, regardless of whether you struggle with injuries, chronic pain, or other connected issues.