ESWT is a broad category rather than one single machine type, so it is useful to distinguish focused shockwave systems from radial pressure-wave systems.
ESWT stands for extracorporeal shock wave therapy
“Extracorporeal” means the energy is generated outside the body and transmitted into the treatment area. Historically, shock-wave technology is also used in lithotripsy, but musculoskeletal ESWT devices use different treatment designs and indications.
ESWT is a category, not one machine
Focused shock-wave generators and radial pressure-wave devices differ in physics and delivery. Regulatory labeling may also use specific terminology for a given device.
What to ask when a product says “ESWT”
- Is it radial or focused?
- What is the actual generation method?
- What is the intended use on the label?
- Who is intended to operate it?
- What contraindications and warnings apply?
- What independent evidence exists for the intended indication?
Sources & verification
References used for the product specifications and health information on this page are listed below.