Chapter 4

The Applied Mechanical Vibration as Extracorporeal Shock Wave

Maria Cristina D`Agostino, Simona Maria Carmignano and Andrea Saggini

Abstract

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.

Total Pages: 181-219 (39)

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