Radial shockwave therapy (RSWT) is a widely adopted modality in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders and various soft tissue conditions. This technology harnesses the power of pressure waves to induce therapeutic effects, including pain relief, inflammation reduction, and mobility improvement. For providers, finding the best shockwave therapy machine is crucial to maximizing treatment efficacy and patient outcomes. RSWT has become a valuable tool in both clinical and sports medicine settings, offering non-invasive treatment options for patients with chronic pain and other related conditions.
How Radial Shockwave Therapy Works
Radial shockwave therapy operates on a unique mechanism distinct from traditional shockwaves. RSWT devices utilize compressed air or an electromagnetic field to propel a projectile within a guiding tube. This projectile strikes a metal applicator placed against the patient’s skin, generating stress waves that convert into pressure waves, commonly referred to as radial shockwaves. These waves penetrate the tissue non-invasively, promoting cellular and molecular responses beneficial for healing.
Contrary to the term “shockwave,” the pressure waves produced by RSWT are not true shockwaves. They create a cavitation effect, which is essential for their therapeutic impact. The mechanical energy from these waves facilitates various biological processes, such as apoptosis of damaged cells and stimulation of collagen production, ultimately aiding in tissue repair and pain reduction.
Comparison of Popular Radial Shockwave Therapy Machines
With numerous machines available in the market, it can be challenging to choose the best radial therapy machine for your practice. Below, we compare several leading RSWT machines, highlighting their essential features, specifications, and applications to help doctors and therapists make informed decisions.
1. Storz Medical Masterpuls Ultra MP200
The Storz Medical Masterpuls Ultra MP200 is designed for treating a range of musculoskeletal conditions with adjustable frequency and energy settings, offering detailed treatment protocols and an ergonomic handpiece for ease of use.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 18.34in x 7.36in x 17.874in
- Weight: 23 kg
- Frequency Range: 1-21 Hz
- Energy Levels: 0.1-5.0 bar
- User Interface: Touchscreen with intuitive software
Indications: Plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, shoulder tendinopathy
Key Applications: Musculoskeletal pain relief, tendon repair, myofascial trigger points
Essential Features: Ergonomic handpiece, adjustable frequency and energy settings, detailed treatment protocols
2. Zimmer EnPuls Pro
The Zimmer EnPuls Pro is known for its modular handpiece and lightweight design, making it suitable for treating chronic pain and accelerating tissue repair with a broad range of preset treatment options.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 7.87in x 13.77in x 11.81in
- Weight: 3.8 kg (without handpiece)
- Frequency Range: 1-22 Hz
- Energy Levels: 60-185 mJ
- User Interface: Color touchscreen
Indications: Tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, heel spurs
Key Applications: Chronic pain treatment, accelerated tissue repair, muscle activation
Essential Features: Modular handpiece, lightweight design, extensive treatment library
3. DJO Chattanooga Intelect RPW 2
The DJO Chattanooga Intelect RPW 2 offers versatility with its range of application heads and user-friendly software, aimed at pain management and tissue regeneration, with a design that supports portability.
Specifications:
- Dimensions:16.15in x 16.54in x 43.31in
- Weight: 30kg
- Frequency Range: 1-20 Hz
- Energy Levels: 60-185 mJ
- User Interface: Touchscreen with preset and customizable settings
Indications: Calcific shoulder tendinopathy, patellar tendinopathy, trochanteric bursitis
Key Applications: Pain management, tissue regeneration, chronic inflammation reduction
Essential Features: Versatile application heads, user-friendly software, portable design
4. BTL-6000 SWT Topline
The BTL-6000 SWT Topline features a silent built-in compressor and a large color touchscreen, focusing on myofascial pain treatment and muscle relaxation with an ergonomic handpiece for user comfort.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 12.59in x 7.48in x 11in
- Weight: 7kg (without accessories)
- Frequency Range: 1-22 Hz
- Energy Levels: 10-185 mJ
- User Interface: Color touchscreen with user-friendly interface
Indications: Epicondylitis, shoulder pain, lower back pain
Key Applications: Myofascial pain treatment, muscle relaxation, scar tissue breakdown
Essential Features: Ergonomic handpiece, silent built-in compressor, large color touchscreen
5. EMS Swiss DolorClast Master
The EMS Swiss DolorClast Master is recognized for its reliable and durable design, offering high-quality handpieces and versatile treatment protocols aimed at providing fast pain relief and improved blood circulation.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 5.31in x 15.55in x 14.37in
- Weight: 6.4 kg (unit only)
- Frequency Range: 1-20 Hz
- Energy Levels: 0.01-0.55 mJ/mm²
- User Interface: Intuitive touchscreen with preset protocols
Indications: Achilles tendinopathy, plantar fasciitis, muscle pain
Key Applications: Fast pain relief, improved blood circulation, enhanced healing
Essential Features: High-quality handpieces, versatile treatment protocols, reliable and durable design
Radial Shockwave Therapy Machines Comparison Table
Feature | Storz Medical Masterpuls Ultra MP200 | Zimmer EnPuls Pro | DJO Chattanooga Intelect RPW 2 | BTL-6000 SWT Topline | EMS Swiss DolorClast Master |
Frequency Range | 1-21 Hz | 1-22 Hz | 1-20 Hz | 1-22 Hz | 1-20 Hz |
Energy Levels | 0.1-5.0 bar | 60-185 mJ | 60-185 mJ | 10-185 mJ | 0.01-0.55 mJ/mm² |
User Interface | Touchscreen | Color touchscreen | Touchscreen | Color touchscreen | Intuitive touchscreen |
Indications | Plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, shoulder tendinopathy | Tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, heel spurs | Calcific shoulder tendinopathy, patellar tendinopathy, trochanteric bursitis | Epicondylitis, shoulder pain, lower back pain | Achilles tendinopathy, plantar fasciitis, muscle pain |
Key Applications | Pain relief, tendon repair, myofascial trigger points | Chronic pain treatment, tissue repair, muscle activation | Pain management, tissue regeneration, inflammation reduction | Myofascial pain, muscle relaxation, scar tissue breakdown | Pain relief, blood circulation, healing |
Essential Features | Ergonomic handpiece, adjustable settings, treatment protocols | Modular handpiece, lightweight, treatment library | Versatile heads, user-friendly, portable | Ergonomic handpiece, silent compressor, large touchscreen | High-quality handpieces, versatile protocols, durable design |
Benefits of Radial Shockwave Therapy and Potential Drawbacks
Radial shockwave therapy (RSWT) machines offer numerous benefits for both practitioners and patients. For practitioners, these machines provide a non-invasive treatment option that can address a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. This versatility allows for broader application in clinical settings, from sports medicine to orthopedics. The ease of use and relatively short treatment sessions enable practitioners to treat more patients efficiently. Additionally, the adjustable frequency and energy settings of RSWT machines, such as those described above, allow for customized treatment plans tailored to individual patient needs.
For patients, RSWT offers a non-surgical alternative to pain relief and tissue repair. It is particularly effective for conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, and shoulder tendinopathy, where traditional methods might be less effective.
Despite its advantages, RSWT has potential drawbacks. Some patients may experience temporary pain or discomfort during treatment. The efficacy of RSWT can also vary depending on the condition being treated and the patient’s response to therapy. Additionally, the initial cost of purchasing a high-quality RSWT machine can be substantial, and proper training is required to ensure optimal use.
Choosing the Best Shockwave Therapy Machine for Your Practice
While radial shockwave therapy offers significant benefits, there are instances where it may fall short, especially in treating deep tissue conditions or providing comprehensive tissue regeneration. This is where SoftWave therapy, a type of shockwave therapy, can play a crucial role. SoftWave therapy uses patented technology to deliver unfocused, low-intensity shockwaves that penetrate deeper tissues without causing significant discomfort. It is particularly effective for conditions such as chronic tendinopathies, non-union fractures, and large muscle injuries, where radial shockwave therapy may not be as effective.
SoftWave therapy is designed to enhance tissue regeneration, reduce inflammation, and provide long-lasting pain relief. Doctors interested in expanding their treatment options can consider becoming a SoftWave therapy provider. To experience the benefits firsthand and see how it can complement their practice, request a demo and become a SoftWave provider today!