Clinical applications of shock wave therapy
Which conditions EMS DolorClast shock waves and laser treat
From tendinopathies to spasticity: a wide range of applications
According to EMS, DolorClast shock waves are used in musculoskeletal, neurological and vascular conditions, acute and chronic. This page summarises the applications by technology, to help you decide which configuration suits your clinic.
The choice between radial, focused and laser depends on the depth of the structure, the stage of the condition and the patient's tolerance.
- Tendinopathies
- Plantar fasciitis
- Myofascial pain
- Sports injuries
Most frequent applications
Summary based on EMS information.
Tendinopathies
Achilles, patellar and rotator cuff. Radial and focused.
Plantar fasciitis and fasciopathies
Heel pain and fasciae, including large muscle areas. Radial.
Myofascial pain syndrome and trigger points
Localised muscle pain, with Burst mode on radial devices. Radial and focused.
Spasticity
Neurology and rehabilitation. Radial and focused.
Sports and post-surgical injuries
Support for muscle and tendon recovery. Radial, focused and laser.
Acute pain and inflammation
Acute phase and low pain threshold. High power laser.
Indications by technology, according to EMS
| Radial | Tendinopathies, plantar fasciitis, myofascial pain syndromes, spasticity, large muscle areas and fasciopathies, post-surgical rehabilitation and sports injuries |
|---|---|
| Focused | Pain syndromes (myofascial, greater trochanter, trigger points, low back and neck), tendinopathies and fasciopathies, chronic soft tissue injuries, knee osteoarthritis, bone injuries, adhesive capsulitis and spasticity |
| 905 nm laser | Superficial or deep musculoskeletal indications, acute inflammation and immediate relief of joint or muscle pain |
| GDT (overall) | Back pain, tendinopathy, osteoarthritis, enthesopathy, fasciopathy, myofascial pain, calcification, delayed union and non-union fractures, spasticity |
Selected clinical studies
Randomised trial (Suputtitada, 2022): radial shock waves reduced pain and improved upper trapezius flexibility, with results similar to injections at 4 weeks.
Randomised trial (Song, 2024): with radial shock waves added to rehabilitation, patients recovered faster, with less pain and better knee movement in the first weeks.
Double-blind placebo-controlled trial (Hussein and Donatelli): sustained improvement in shoulder function, pain and mobility, with benefit maintained for at least 24 weeks.
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
Are shock waves suitable for tendinopathies?
Yes. EMS lists Achilles, patellar and rotator cuff tendinopathies among the main indications for radial waves, and tendinopathies among those for focused waves.
What about low back and neck pain?
EMS includes low back and neck pain in the indications for focused waves and in the list of applications of Guided DolorClast Therapy.
Are they suitable for bone injuries?
According to EMS, focused waves are indicated for bone injuries such as pseudarthrosis, delayed union, stress fractures and medial tibial stress syndrome.
Can I treat spasticity?
Spasticity is among the indications for radial and focused waves, according to EMS.
Who sets the protocol?
The healthcare professional, based on the patient assessment and the manufacturer's instructions.