EXTRACORPOREAL SHOCK WAVE THERAPY FOR SOFT TISSUE INJURIES AND WOUNDS: PATHOPHYSIOLOGY, MECHANISMS OF ACTION AND EFFICACY
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32782/pub.health.2026.1.25Keywords:
soft tissue injuries and wounds, extracorporeal shock wave therapy, pathophysiology, mechanisms of action, effectivenessAbstract
Topicality. The combination of analysis of the pathophysiology of ballistic injuries and modern therapeutic approaches, in particular shock wave therapy (SWT), allows us to evaluate promising strategies for improving treatment outcomes and developing effective methods for patient recovery.
Purpose of the work. Analysis of modern views on the pathophysiology, mechanisms of action and efficacy of extracorporeal shock wave therapy for soft tissue injuries and wounds.
Materials and methods. The research that forms the basis of this article is based on a systematic analysis of published scientific literature on the problem of pathophysiology, mechanisms of action and efficacy of extracorporeal shock wave therapy for soft tissue injuries and wounds.
Research results. The higher clinical efficacy of UHT in the treatment of acute and chronic soft tissue wounds compared to monotherapy with traditional methods is substantiated. The need for further high-quality randomized studies is emphasized to more accurately determine its role and optimal application parameters. The prospects for developing complex therapeutic strategies that combine the natural regenerative potential of tissues with modern medical interventions are shown, including UHT as a non-invasive method of stimulating recovery. Attention is focused on early interventions aimed at activating satellite cells, inhibiting catabolic processes, and stimulating angiogenesis - effects that are partially realized under the influence of shock wave therapy. The use of tissue-engineered bioconstructs for restoring muscle mass in severe injuries, as well as the introduction of a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, is recognized as additionally promising.
Conclusions. It is necessary to conduct research aimed at optimizing rehabilitation programs, in particular, determining effective combinations of physical activity, nutritional support, and pharmacotherapy in combination with UHT to achieve the most complete functional recovery.
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