Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (eSWT) in Spinal Cord Injury—A Narrative Review

J. Clin. Med., 2024 · DOI: 10.3390/jcm13175112 · Published: August 28, 2024

Spinal Cord Injury Orthopedics Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injuries lead to motor and sensory issues, causing significant problems for healthcare. While progress has been made, reversing SCI remains difficult. Researchers are exploring ways to help nerves regenerate and restore function. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (eSWT) is being investigated as a potential treatment. It uses acoustic pulses to stimulate tissue repair and reduce pain. Studies suggest eSWT might help with spinal cord regeneration and spasticity. This review looks at how eSWT can be used for spinal cord regeneration and to manage spasticity after a spinal cord injury. It discusses possible ways eSWT works and its potential to improve walking, urological function, and quality of life.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Level 5, Narrative Review

Key Findings

1
eSWT promotes biological and neural effects through a combination of mechanotransduction, cavitation, and biochemical signaling, supporting tissue regeneration, neuroprotection, and pain relief.
2
Animal studies and clinical trials suggest eSWT is a safe and cost-effective option for treating neurological disorders and diseases of the peripheral and central nervous system.
3
eSWT can improve passive range of motion and passive resistance force in ankle dorsiflexion in the short term, when combined with conventional therapy for plantar flexor spasticity.

Research Summary

This review explores the potential of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (eSWT) in treating spinal cord injuries (SCI), focusing on its role in regeneration and spasticity management. Despite ongoing research, reversing SCI remains a challenge, prompting the exploration of innovative therapies like eSWT. eSWT, initially used for musculoskeletal disorders, is now being investigated for its neuroregenerative and neuromodulatory capabilities. It operates through mechanotransduction and cavitation, fostering tissue repair, angiogenesis, and pain reduction. While studies show promise for eSWT in improving spasticity, walking ability, and overall quality of life for SCI patients, further research is needed to standardize treatment parameters and assess long-term efficacy and integration with other therapies.

Practical Implications

Innovative Treatment Option

eSWT presents a novel, non-invasive approach for managing SCI, potentially improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

Further Research Needed

Standardized protocols and long-term studies are essential to fully understand eSWT's efficacy and integration with other therapies.

Clinical Application

Clinicians should consider eSWT as a potential adjunctive therapy for SCI, especially for managing spasticity and promoting functional recovery.

Study Limitations

1
Narrative review methodology lacks the systematic rigor of meta-analyses.
2
Potential for overlooking studies and inclusion of varying quality studies may introduce bias.
3
Limited information on long-term neurological effects and standardized treatment parameters.

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