DolorClast radial shock waves
High-energy therapy for chronic musculoskeletal conditions and sports injuries
High energy per impulse, in a portable device
DolorClast radial shock waves apply high-energy acoustic waves to the tissues, non-invasively. According to EMS, they produce an analgesic effect, an anti-inflammatory action and the activation of healing mechanisms such as angiogenesis and improved circulation.
In 1997 EMS created the first pneumatic-ballistic system to generate extracorporeal radial shock waves. Compressed air propels a projectile inside the handpiece that strikes a fixed applicator and turns kinetic energy into a shock wave that, according to EMS, reaches 4 cm deep.
- Creators of radial shock waves
- Up to 25 Hz
- Three treatment modes
- Portable
How radial shock waves work
Compressed air accelerates a projectile inside the handpiece. When it hits the applicator, the kinetic energy becomes a shock wave that travels through the tissue.
According to EMS, the wave reaches a depth of 4 cm, which makes this technology suitable for superficial pathologies and large muscle areas.
- Compressed air that drives the DolorClast handpiece
- Applicator that transmits the shock wave to the tissue
- Penetration up to 4 cm, according to EMS
Why choose DolorClast radial shock waves
Benefits for the therapist and the patient.
The energy dose the case calls for
The devices deliver high energy per impulse, even at high frequencies. According to EMS, energy per shock is the key factor of clinical effect, and more impulses do not make up for low energy.
Patient-centred treatment
The Analgesic, Ramp-Up and Burst modes adjust energy to each person's tolerance, including sensitive patients or very painful conditions.
Large areas in little time
With frequencies up to 25 Hz, you treat extensive muscle areas and fasciopathies quickly, freeing up diary time.
Simple workflow
Preset protocols, precise manual adjustments, a colour touchscreen on the Master, and easy set-up and cleaning.
Swiss DolorClast Master
Radial shock waves · touchscreen
The complete device in the radial range: treats musculoskeletal conditions quickly and effectively, with clinically proven energy output and detailed information for the patient.
- Evo Blue® applicator for constant energy density
- Power+ applicator for high energy
- Preset protocols and precise manual adjustments
- Ramp-up pressure and energy density display
- Videos, treatment images and method details for the patient
Swiss DolorClast Smart 20
Radial shock waves · simple and robust
For clinics that want to start with high-energy radial shock waves without complications: it treats musculoskeletal conditions quickly and effectively.
- Evo Blue® applicator for constant energy density
- Power+ applicator for high energy
- Quick set-up and easy cleaning
DolorClast Radial Shock Waves
Radial shock waves · portable
Ideal for treating superficial subacute conditions and chronic musculoskeletal conditions, now in a portable device, with the highest energy dose and comfort for the patient.
- Up to 25 Hz frequency
- Three treatment modes: Analgesic, Ramp-Up and Burst
- Treats muscle injuries and large areas in an instant
- Better workflow for the therapist
Three modes for patient-centred treatment
According to EMS, each mode suits a patient and condition profile.
Analgesic mode
Shock waves at 25 Hz and low pressure. Recommended for highly painful conditions and for patients with a low pain threshold.
Ramp-Up mode
Pressure rises steadily, to always reach the highest energy dose the patient tolerates.
Burst mode
Alternates 25 Hz waves with the preset frequency. Recommended for myofascial pain syndrome.
Technical sheet
| Technology | Pneumatic-ballistic radial shock waves |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Up to 25 Hz (DolorClast Radial Shock Waves) |
| Penetration | Up to 4 cm, according to EMS |
| Applicators | Evo Blue® and Power+ (Master and Smart 20) |
| Modes | Analgesic, Ramp-Up and Burst |
| Manufacturer | EMS Electro Medical Systems SA, Nyon, Switzerland |
What the research says about DolorClast radial shock waves
Randomised trial (Yang, 2017): significant differences versus control in pain and disability at 6, 12 and 24 weeks, with 1 session a week, 2000 impulses at 10 Hz and the maximum tolerated energy.
Double-blind placebo-controlled trial (Hussein and Donatelli): improved function, pain and mobility, maintained for at least 24 weeks, with 4 weekly sessions at 8 Hz.
Study in professional players (Morgan, 2021): shorter lay-off time after treating acute muscle injuries with DolorClast Radial Shock Waves.
Selected studies from the EMS scientific library. Results refer to the conditions, devices and protocols of each study.
Safety and use
- Devices for use by healthcare professionals with appropriate training.
- Energy, frequency, number of impulses and interval between sessions are set by the professional, according to the patient assessment and the manufacturer's instructions.
- Contraindications and precautions are listed in the instructions for use of each device and must be checked before every treatment.
General information that does not replace medical advice. The right protocol depends on each patient and must be defined by a healthcare professional.
Frequently asked questions
What are radial shock waves used for?
According to EMS, for tendinopathies (Achilles, patellar, rotator cuff), plantar fasciitis, myofascial pain syndromes, spasticity, large muscle areas and fasciopathies, and post-surgical rehabilitation and sports injuries.
What is the difference between the Master and Smart 20?
Both use radial shock waves with Evo Blue® and Power+ applicators. The Master adds a touchscreen, preset protocols, ramp-up pressure, an energy density display and patient content; the Smart 20 stands out for its simplicity.
Are the impulses painful?
The patient may feel discomfort during treatment, which is why the device has modes that adjust energy to tolerance, such as Analgesic (25 Hz, low pressure) and Ramp-Up.
How many sessions are needed?
It depends on the condition and the protocol set by the professional. In the studies mentioned, protocols were, for example, one session a week for several weeks.
Can radial waves be combined with other EMS technologies?
Yes. Guided DolorClast Therapy foresees combinations, for example with the 905 nm high power laser before the shock waves.