After its originary introduction as urological lithotripsy (still clinically
applied), shock wave progressively gained a growing therapeutic importance in some
different medical fields. Initially restricted in many musculo-skeletal disorders, in more
recent years, thanks to a better knowledge about its mechanisms of actions (mainly
antiflogistic, angiogenic and analgesic), this particular form of mechanical vibration
nowadays represents a real innovative and unexpected therapeutic tool at the service of
rehabilitation and regenerative medicine. The effectiveness, safety and ductility of
shock wave therapy make it a unique and versatile strategy with further promising
therapeutic perspectives in the near future.
Keywords: Focused and unfocused waves, Lithotripsy, Mechanical stimulation,
Radial wave, Regenerative processes, Shock wave generators, Shock waves.
