Low-energy extracorporeal shockwave therapy improves locomotor functions, tissue regeneration, and modulating the inﬂammation induced FGF1 and FGF2 signaling to protect damaged tissue in spinal cord injury of rat model: an experimental animal study

International Journal of Surgery, 2024 · DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1097/JS9.0000000000002128 · Published: October 24, 2024

Spinal Cord Injury Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cells

Simple Explanation

This study investigates how low-energy shockwave therapy (ESWT) can help rats recover from spinal cord injuries. The researchers looked at motor function, tissue repair, inflammation, and mitochondrial health. They found that multiple ESWT sessions were more effective than a single session in improving motor skills and promoting tissue regeneration. ESWT also helped reduce inflammation and improve mitochondrial function, which are crucial for nerve cell health. Overall, the study suggests that low-energy ESWT could be a valuable non-invasive treatment for spinal cord injuries, helping to improve recovery by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair.

Study Duration

7 Weeks

Participants

40 Sprague-Dawley rats

Evidence Level

Level 1: Experimental Animal Study

Key Findings

1
Low-energy ESWT had a dose-dependent effect, with three treatment sessions (ESWT3) showing superior outcomes compared to a single session.
2
ESWT3 signiﬁcantly improved motor functions [run patterns, run average speed, and maximum variation, as well as the Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan score] and promoted tissue regeneration while reducing inﬂammation.
3
ESWT3 modulated the expression of ﬁbroblast growth factor 1 (FGF1), FGF2, their receptor FGFR1 and phosphorylation of ERK, aiding tissue repair, and regeneration in SCI.

Research Summary

This study demonstrates the dose-dependent effects of low-energy ESWT on motor function recovery, tissue regeneration, anti-inflammatory responses, and mitochondrial function in a rat model of SCI. The findings provide new insights into the therapeutic potential of ESWT for SCI treatment, suggesting that optimal dosing is crucial for maximizing its benefits. Future research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms of ESWT and determine standardized protocols for clinical applications in SCI patients.

Practical Implications

Improved Motor Recovery

ESWT, especially with multiple sessions, can significantly improve motor function in SCI patients, potentially enhancing their quality of life.

Reduced Inflammation

ESWT's anti-inflammatory effects can mitigate secondary injury in SCI, leading to better outcomes.

Enhanced Tissue Regeneration

ESWT promotes tissue repair and regeneration, which can help restore damaged spinal cord structures.

Study Limitations

1
The rat model used may not fully replicate the complexity of human SCI, limiting the direct translational potential.
2
The optimal ESWT treatment regimen (frequency, intensity, and duration) remains undetermined, requiring further research to standardize protocols.
3
The 6-week observation period does not address the long-term effects of ESWT, including the potential for chronic complications such as scarring and ﬁbrosis.

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