Extracorporeal shock waves down-regulate the expression of interleukin-10 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in osteoarthritic chondrocytes

Shock Waves and Therapeutic Exercise in Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome: A Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial with Cross-Over

This study aimed to verify the comparative effectiveness of shock wave therapy versus therapeutic exercise, including the possibility of combining both therapies, in patients who did not respond to the first treatment. A prospective randomized clinical trial was carried out, predicting the possibility of a cross-over between the two treatment options, with patients who did not respond to either treatment. Treatments were, respectively, eccentric therapeutic exercise consisting of 30 min sessions of stretching and strengthening exercises, 5 days a week for 4 weeks (Groups A and D) and Extracorporeal Shock Waves Therapy (ESWT) according to a protocol of three sessions, one per week, each of 2000 pulses at a 4 Hz frequency and administering an energy flux density (EFD) varying between 0.03 mJ/mm² and 0.17 mJ/mm² (Groups B and C). Patients were evaluated at baseline (T0), 2 (T1), 4 (T2) and 6 months (T3) after the last session, using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), Low Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) and Roles and Maudsley Scale (RMS). The whole study population demonstrated a progressive clinical reduction in pain according to NRS, a recovery from disability according to LEFS and a perception of recovery according to RMS within 6 months, with no significant differences between the four protocols (exercise; ESWT; exercise + ESWT; and ESWT + exercise). Both therapies are therefore valid options in patients with trochanteritis; the combination of the two therapies could be evaluated for those patients who do not respond to the single treatment.

[Treatment of lateral and medial epicondylopathy : Are platelet-rich plasma, shock wave therapy, etc. effective for both?]

Lateral and medial epicondylopathy (epicondylitis), which are common and in most cases self-limiting, frequently result in relevant reduction of quality of life and may also affect the ability to work. Recently, the use of orthobiologics, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), has been proposed to promote tendon regeneration and is supposed to be a valuable treatment option. However, scientific data are conflicting and the short- and long-time results are controversial. The use of stem cells is new approach and preliminary clinical data are promising. Shock wave therapy is widely used and part of the daily routine in treating lateral epicondylopoathy, although it is questionable for medial epicondylopathy.

Shockwave Therapy in Veterinary Rehabilitation

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a noninvasive treatment that involves the transcutaneous delivery of high-energy sound waves into tissue creating therapeutic effects. Shockwaves are nonlinear, high-pressure, high-velocity acoustic waves characterized by low tensile amplitude, short rise time to peak pressure, and a short duration (less than 10 milliseconds). ESWT has been shown to increase the expression of cytokines and growth factors leading to decreased inflammation, neovascularization, and cellular proliferation; activation of osteogenesis by osteoblast differentiation and then by increased proliferation; inhibition of cartilage degeneration and rebuilding of subchondral bone; and increased serotonin in the dorsal horn and descending inhibition of pain signals. Musculoskeletal conditions that can benefit from ESWT include osteoarthritis, tendinopathies, fracture/bone healing, and wound healing.

Comparison between radial and focused types of extracorporeal shock-wave therapy in plantar calcaneal spur: A randomized sham-controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

Both radial and focused types of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) have been used in patients with plantar calcaneal spur (PCS). However, no study has yet addressed the comparative effects of these treatments on the condition. Considering radial and focused waves are different from each other, their effectiveness may also be different in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of radial and focused types of ESWT on PCS.

METHODS

Ninety-nine patients with plantar calcaneal spur were randomised into three groups according to ESWT types: focused, radial, and sham. ESWT was applied as three sessions, with 2-4 days intervals (excluding weekends). All patients were evaluated at baseline (week 0) and weeks 1, 5, and 13. The Foot Function Index (FFI) scores were used as outcome measures.

RESULTS

Compared with baseline (week 0), at the end of treatment (week 1) and at the follow-up periods (weeks 5, and 13) the FFI scores were significantly reduced in both focused and radial ESWT groups (for all, p < 0.001). When considering the change in data from baseline to follow-up periods (weeks 5, and 13), both focused and radial ESWT groups were significantly superior to the sham group in the all outcome measures (for all, p < 0.05). Importantly, the radial group was significantly superior to focused group based on the changes in the FFI scores (for all, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Both focused ESWT and radial ESWT are effective in plantar calcaneal spur. When considering the degree and continuity of the positive effects, radial ESWT is superior to focused ESWT in plantar calcaneal spur.

Effect of Vitamin C on Tendinopathy Recovery: A Scoping Review

Tendinopathies represent 30–50% of all sports injuries. The tendon response is influenced by the load (volume, intensity, and frequency) that the tendon support, resulting in irritability and pain, among others. The main molecular component of tendons is collagen I (60–85%). The rest consist of glycosaminoglycans-proteoglycans, glycoproteins, and other collagen subtypes. This study’s aim was to critically evaluate the efficacy of vitamin C supplementation in the treatment of tendinopathies. At the same time, the study aims to determine the optimal conditions (dose and time) for vitamin C supplementation. A structured search was carried out in the SCOPUS, Medline (PubMed), and Web of Science (WOS) databases. The inclusion criteria took into account studies describing optimal tendon recovery when using vitamin C alone or in combination with other compounds. The study design was considered, including randomized, double-blind controlled, and parallel designs in animal models or humans. The main outcome is that vitamin C supplementation is potentially useful as a therapeutic approach for tendinopathy recovery. Vitamin C supplementation, alone or in combination with other products, increases collagen synthesis with a consequent improvement in the patient’s condition. On the other hand, vitamin C deficiency is mainly associated with a decrease in procollagen synthesis and reduced hydroxylation of proline and lysine residues, hindering the tendon repair process.

The Effects of the Exposure of Musculoskeletal Tissue to Extracorporeal Shock Waves

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) is a safe and effective treatment option for various pathologies of the musculoskeletal system. Many studies address the molecular and cellular mechanisms of action of ESWT. However, to date, no uniform concept could be established on this matter. In the present study, we perform a systematic review of the effects of exposure of musculoskeletal tissue to extracorporeal shock waves (ESWs) reported in the literature. The key results are as follows: (i) compared to the effects of many other forms of therapy, the clinical benefit of ESWT does not appear to be based on a single mechanism; (ii) different tissues respond to the same mechanical stimulus in different ways; (iii) just because a mechanism of action of ESWT is described in a study does not automatically mean that this mechanism is relevant to the observed clinical effect; (iv) focused ESWs and radial ESWs seem to act in a similar way; and (v) even the most sophisticated research into the effects of exposure of musculoskeletal tissue to ESWs cannot substitute clinical research in order to determine the optimum intensity, treatment frequency and localization of ESWT.

Treatment Options for Patellofemoral Arthritis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To present a synthesis of recent literature regarding the treatment of patellofemoral arthritis RECENT FINDINGS: Risk factors of PFJ OA include patella malalignment or maltracking, injury to supportive structures including the MPFL, dysfunction of hamstring and quadriceps coordination, lower limb alignment, trochlear dysplasia, patellar trauma, or ACL surgery. Special physical exam maneuvers include patellar grind test, apprehension test, and lateral patellar tilt angle. Radiographs that should be obtained first-line include weight bearing bilateral AP, lateral, and Merchant views. CT and MRI are used to assess trochlear dysplasia, excessive patellar height, and TT-TG distance. Non-operative management options discussed include non-pharmacologic treatment (patient education, self-management, physical therapy, weight loss), ESWT, cold therapy, taping, bracing, and orthotics. Pharmacologic management options discussed include NSAIDs, acetaminophen, oral narcotics, and duloxetine. Injection therapies include glucocorticoids, hyaluronic acid, PRP, and other regenerative therapies (BMAC, adipose, or mesenchymal stem cells). Other treatment options include radiofrequency ablation and botulinum toxin. The algorithm for the surgical treatment of PFJ OA can begin with arthroscopic assessment of the PF articular cartilage to address mechanical symptoms and to evaluate/treat lateral soft tissue with or without overhanging lateral osteophytes. If patients fail to have symptomatic improvement, a TTO can be considered in those patients less than 50 years of age or active patients >50 years old. In patients with severe PFJ OA, refractory to the above treatments, PFA should be considered. While early PFA design and technique were less than encouraging, more recent implant design and surgical technique have demonstrated robust results in the literature. Patellofemoral osteoarthritis is a challenging orthopedic problem to treat, in that it can often affect younger patients, with otherwise well-functioning knees. It is a unique entity compared to TF OA with distinct epidemiology, biomechanics and risk factors and treatment options.

Relative Effect of Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy Alone or in Combination with Noninjective Treatments on Pain and Physical Function in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) has been recommended for managing pain in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). The difference in therapeutic effects between radial shockwave characteristics (RaSW) and focused shockwave characteristics (FoSW) with different energy levels for KOA remains controversial. The purpose of this network meta-analysis (NMA) was to identify the effects relative to the different ESWT regime and combination treatments on pain and functional outcomes in individuals with KOA. The randomized controlled trials (RCTs) which investigated the efficacy of RaSW, FoSW, and combination treatments in patients with KOA were identified by searches of electronic databases. The included RCTs were analyzed through NMA and risk-of-bias assessment. We analyzed 69 RCTs with a total of 21 treatment arms in the NMA. Medium-energy FoSW plus physical therapy, medium-energy acupoint RaSW plus Chinese medicine, and high-energy FoSW alone were the most effective treatments for reducing pain [standard mean difference (SMD) = −4.51], restoring function (SMD = 4.97), and decreasing joint inflammation (SMD = −5.01). Population area and study quality influenced the treatment outcomes, particularly pain. Our findings indicate that medium-energy ESWT combined with physical therapy or Chinese medicine is beneficial for treating pain and increasing function in adults with KOA.

Biophysical Stimulation in Athletes' Joint Degeneration: A Narrative Review

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent degenerative joint disease and the main cause of pain and disability in elderly people. OA currently represents a significant social health problem, since it affects 250 million individuals worldwide, mainly adults aged over 65. Although OA is a multifactorial disease, depending on both genetic and environmental factors, it is reported that joint degeneration has a higher prevalence in former athletes. Repetitive impact and loading, joint overuse and recurrent injuries followed by a rapid return to the sport might explain athletes' predisposition to joint articular degeneration. In recent years, however, big efforts have been made to improve the prevention and management of sports injuries and to speed up the athletes' return-to-sport. Biophysics is the study of biological processes and systems using physics-based methods or based on physical principles. Clinical biophysics has recently evolved as a medical branch that investigates the relationship between the human body and non-ionizing physical energy. A physical stimulus triggers a biological response by regulating specific intracellular pathways, thus acting as a drug. Preclinical and clinical trials have shown positive effects of biophysical stimulation on articular cartilage, subchondral bone and synovia. This review aims to assess the role of pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMFs) and extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) in the prevention and treatment of joint degeneration in athletes.

Extracorporeal shockwave treatment in knee osteoarthritis: therapeutic effects and possible mechanism

Osteoarthritis (OA), the most common degenerative joint disease, is characterized by the cardinal symptoms of chronic pain and restricted joint activity. The complicated pathological changes associated with OA and unclear mechanistic etiology have rendered existing non-surgical OA management options unsatisfactory. Increasing clinical and experimental evidence suggests that extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is beneficial in OA treatment. ESWT is found to have modifying effects on cartilage and subchondral bone alterations in OA progression, as well as the clinical complaints of patients, including chronic pain and limited joint activities. However, the specific treatment strategy regarding the dosage and frequency of ESWT is still underdetermined. This review discusses the existing evidence regarding the therapeutic indications and possible mechanism of ESWT for OA treatment.

Does the Type of Extracorporeal Shock Therapy Influence Treatment Effectiveness in Lateral Epicondylitis? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) has been used in various musculoskeletal disorders, including lateral epicondylitis. However, in 2005, a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials showed that ESWT provides minimal or no benefit in terms of pain and function in patients with lateral epicondylitis. Since the review, several randomized controlled trials including different types of ESWT such as radial type for lateral epicondylitis have been published. Investigations of the effect modifiers such as symptom and follow-up duration on the effects of ESWT on lateral epicondylitis have not been performed.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

(1) Does ESWT reduce pain and improve grip strength in patients with lateral epicondylitis? (2) Which type of ESWT, radial or focused, is more effective? (3) Is the duration of symptoms associated with the efficacy of ESWT for lateral epicondylitis? (4) Do improvements in pain scores remain in patients with longer follow-up?

METHODS

The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were searched up to July 2019 for articles published in English or Korean. Studies were included if patient allocation was randomized, the sample was composed of patients with lateral epicondylitis, interventions were ESWT (focused or radial), comparison group only received sham stimulation or no additional treatment, and the study outcome was pain intensity or grip strength. The quality of the evidence was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Twelve studies including 1104 participants fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. The mean difference for pain reduction and improvement in grip strength was calculated.

RESULTS

The meta-analysis showed no clinically important difference in the VAS score (2.48 ± 7.55 versus 3.17 ± 9.78, mean difference -0.68 [95% confidence interval -1.17 to -0.19]; p = 0.006) and grip strength (38.02 ± 70.56 versus 34.85 ± 108.26, mean difference 3.33 [95% CI 0.93 to 5.73]; p = 0.007) after ESWT relative to the comparison group's score. Even though radial ESWT showed more improvement than focused, the mean difference for VAS did not exceed the minimal clinically important differences threshold. There were no clinically important effects on the VAS scores of patients with lateral epicondylitis (2.78 ± 5.57 versus 3.92 ± 6.29, mean difference -1.13 [95% CI -1.84 to -0.42]; p = 0.002) and focused ESWT did not improve pain in patients with lateral epicondylitis. In the subgroup analysis, ESWT was effective in patients with a symptom duration of more than 6 months (2.28 ± 8.48 versus 3.31 ± 11.81, mean difference -0.95 [95% CI -1.75 to -0.15]; p = 0.02) but not for those with shorter symptom duration. The effects did not last beyond 24 weeks (2.52 ± 9.19 versus 3.34 ± 5.93, mean difference -0.82 [95% CI -2.57 to 0.93]; p = 0.36).

CONCLUSIONS

ESWT did not show clinically important improvement in pain reduction and grip strength. Radial ESWT, symptom duration of longer than 6 months, and short follow-up duration (less than 24 weeks) were related to better effects. Further studies are needed to determine the appropriate protocol and elucidate the effects according to the intervention type and specific disease condition.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I, therapeutic study.

Extracorporeal shock wave promotes activation of anterior cruciate ligament remnant cells and their paracrine regulation of bone marrow stromal cells' proliferation, migration, collagen synthesis, and differentiation

Aims

Proliferation, migration, and differentiation of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) remnant and surrounding cells are fundamental processes for ACL reconstruction; however, the interaction between ACL remnant and surrounding cells is unclear. We hypothesized that ACL remnant cells preserve the capability to regulate the surrounding cells' activity, collagen gene expression, and tenogenic differentiation. Moreover, extracorporeal shock wave (ESW) would not only promote activity of ACL remnant cells, but also enhance their paracrine regulation of surrounding cells.

Methods

Cell viability, proliferation, migration, and expression levels of Collagen-I (COL-I) A1, transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were compared between ACL remnant cells untreated and treated with ESW (0.15 mJ/mm², 1,000 impulses, 4 Hz). To evaluate the subsequent effects on the surrounding cells, bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs)' viability, proliferation, migration, and levels of Type I Collagen, Type III Collagen, and tenogenic gene (Scx, TNC) expression were investigated using coculture system.

Results

ESW-treated ACL remnant cells presented higher cell viability, proliferation, migration, and increased expression of COL-I A1, TGF-β, and VEGF. BMSC proliferation and migration rate significantly increased after coculture with ACL remnant cells with and without ESW stimulation compared to the BMSCs alone group. Furthermore, ESW significantly enhanced ACL remnant cells' capability to upregulate the collagen gene expression and tenogenic differentiation of BMSCs, without affecting cell viability, TGF-β, and VEGF expression.

Conclusion

ACL remnant cells modulated activity and differentiation of surrounding cells. The results indicated that ESW enhanced ACL remnant cells viability, proliferation, migration, and expression of collagen, TGF-β, VEGF, and paracrine regulation of BMSC proliferation, migration, collagen expression, and tenogenesis.Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2020;9(8):458-468.

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis: a meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) has become a common practice for treating knee osteoarthritis (OA). However, the effectiveness and safety of this treatment are still questionable. This meta-analysis is aimed at determining the degree of pain reduction and functional outcome after ESWT for knee OA.

METHODS

We systematically searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and other online databases. The articles comparing the outcomes between ESWT and controls were included in the analysis.

RESULTS

Nine studies with 705 patients were included. The pooled data revealed significantly lower pain scores in the ESWT groups than in the control groups within two weeks of treatment and six months after treatment (visual analogue scale, - 1.59, p = 0.0003, 95% confidence interval (CI) - 2.45 to - 0.72 at 2 weeks; - 1.12, p = 0.005, 95% CI - 1.89 to - 0.34 at 6 months). The ESWT group also had better functional outcomes four to six weeks post treatment (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, - 11.96, p = 0.003, 95% CI - 19.76 to - 4.15). No rebound pain was noted for up to 12 months.

CONCLUSION

Using ESWT to treat knee OA may reduce pain and improve functional outcomes. The effect may last six months to one year. More prospective studies are needed to investigate the settings for ESWT to optimize treatment results.

Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Knee - Conservative Treatment Strategies: A Systematic Review

OBJECTIVE

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) lesions are a relevant problem that affects the long-term prognosis of young patients. The purpose of this study was to analyze the evidence on potential and indications of nonsurgical treatment strategies for knee OCD.

DESIGN

The search was conducted on 3 medical electronic databases according to PRISMA guidelines, including reports of any level of evidence dealing with the conservative management of knee OCD. Of 1688 identified records, 55 full-text articles were screened: 27 studies met the inclusion criteria, for a total of 908 knees, and were used for the analysis.

RESULTS

No high-level studies were found: 24 articles were case series and 3 case reports, reporting on different treatments summarized in (1) restriction of physical activity, (2) physiokinesitherapy and muscle-strengthening exercises, (3) physical instrumental therapies, (4) limitation of weightbearing, and (5) immobilization. The analysis showed an overall healing rate of 61.4%, with large variability (10.4%-95.8%). A conservative treatment based on restriction of sport and strenuous activities seems a favorable approach, possibly combined with physiokinesitherapy. Negative prognostic factors were also identified: larger lesion size, more severe lesion stages, older age and skeletal maturity, discoid meniscus, and clinical presentation with swelling or locking.

CONCLUSIONS

The literature on conservative treatments for knee OCD is scarce. Among different non-surgical treatment options, strenuous activity restriction seems a favorable approach, whereas there is no evidence that physical instrumental therapy, immobilization, or weightbearing limitation could be beneficial. However, further studies are needed to improve treatment potential and indications for the conservative management of knee OCD.

Physical Stimulations for Bone and Cartilage Regeneration

A wide range of techniques and methods are actively invented by clinicians and scientists who are dedicated to the field of musculoskeletal tissue regeneration. Biological, chemical, and physiological factors, which play key roles in musculoskeletal tissue development, have been extensively explored. However, physical stimulation is increasingly showing extreme importance in the processes of osteogenic and chondrogenic differentiation, proliferation and maturation through defined dose parameters including mode, frequency, magnitude, and duration of stimuli. Studies have shown manipulation of physical microenvironment is an indispensable strategy for the repair and regeneration of bone and cartilage, and biophysical cues could profoundly promote their regeneration. In this article, we review recent literature on utilization of physical stimulation, such as mechanical forces (cyclic strain, fluid shear stress, etc.), electrical and magnetic fields, ultrasound, shock waves, substrate stimuli, etc., to promote the repair and regeneration of bone and cartilage tissue. Emphasis is placed on the mechanism of cellular response and the potential clinical usage of these stimulations for bone and cartilage regeneration.

Comparison Between Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy and Intra-articular Hyaluronic Acid Injections in the Treatment of First Carpometacarpal Joint Osteoarthritis

Objective

To compare extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) with hyaluronic acid (HA) intra-articular injections in terms of pain relief, improvement in hand function, and strength in subjects with first carpometacarpal (CMC) joint osteoarthritis.

Methods

Fifty-eight patients received either focused ESWT or HA injection once a week for 3 consecutive weeks. In the ESWT group, 2,400 consecutive pulses were performed during each treatment session using a frequency of 4 Hz and an energy flux density of 0.09 mJ/mm². The HA group underwent one cycle of three injections of 0.5 cm³ HA. The main outcome measures were pain and hand function as measured by the visual analogue scale (VAS) and Duruoz Hand Index (DHI), respectively. The secondary outcomes were grip and pinch strength. Each assessment was performed at baseline, at the end of treatment, and at 3- and 6-month follow-up visits.

Results

According to VAS and DHI scores, a significant change in test performance was observed over time in both groups (p<0.001), with a greater average improvement in painful symptomatology at the 6-month follow-up in the ESWT group. A significant improvement in strength was observed in both groups, but the ESWT group showed better results on the pinch test starting immediately at the end of treatment.

Conclusion

The use of ESWT in patients with first CMC joint osteoarthritis leads to a reduction in pain, an improvement in pinch test performance that persists for at least 6 months, and a decrease in hand disability up to the 6-month follow-up visit.

Physical Rehabilitation for the Management of Canine Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is among the most common orthopedic conditions affecting dogs. Joint laxity is responsible for abnormal development of the femoral head and acetabulum, leading to excessive wear of the articular cartilage. Wear leads to secondary osteoarthritis. Rehabilitation is either conservative or after surgical management. Conservative rehabilitation therapies are directed at decreasing pain, improving hip range of motion (ROM), and building or maintaining muscle mass. Postoperatively, rehabilitation focuses on decreasing postoperative pain and inflammation, improving comfort and limb use, and protecting the surgical site. Once the patient has healed, rehabilitation is directed at improving ROM and promoting muscle mass.

Chondrocytes treated with different shock wave devices

BACKGROUND

Shock wave treatment is used for several orthopedic diseases and there are different devices available. Until now, there have been no experimental studies on the effects of these different generators.

METHODS

We carried out an experimental study to compare the effects of three focused generators (electro-magnetic, piezoelectric and electro-hydraulic) as well as a radial generator on healthy and osteoarthritis chondrocytes.

RESULTS

By the analysis of our results, we may exclude significant differences between the different generators, even though there is a greater action specificity for electro-magnetic and piezoelectric generators.

CONCLUSIONS

The smaller size of the focus of the latter two generators guarantees a greater concentration of energy in the target. The biological effect of the increase of IL-10 and reduction of both N-Cadherin and B-Catenin in chondrocytes in healthy subjects and those affected by osteoarthritis confirms the therapeutic potential of ESWT in cartilage diseases, such as osteoarthritis. In clinical practice it is important to introduce the parameter of total energy. This allows us to standardize the treatment and to manage the variability related to the different types of device and size of the focus.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IIb.

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy as a novel and potential treatment for degenerative cartilage and bone disease: Osteoarthritis. A qualitative analysis of the literature

Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized with pathological changes on articular cartilage and subchondral bone, with clinical symptoms of pain and motor dysfunction in affected joints. A growing number of investigations demonstrated the therapeutic effects of extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) on joints with OA. While the partial mechanisms of action are based on cellular mechanotransduction through cytoskeleton into nuclei to regulate gene expression and cause biophysical influences, the efficacy and exact mechanisms are still under exploration. At present, a summary of the evidence regarding effectiveness of ESWT on OA is not available. The purpose of this review is thus to offer an overview of ESWT in the management of OA in the aspects of cartilage, subchondral bone, pain sensation and motor function, in hopes of eliciting further multi-disciplinary scientific investigations into this promising application as an adjunct to other modalities or surgery. The optimal frequencies, impulses, energy intensity and protocols of ESWT in the management of OA continue to be elucidated. Further studies are required to reveal its exact mechanisms and biophysical effects on cells, animals and humans prior to the clinical application.

Prognostic factors of extracorporeal shock wave therapy for tendinopathies

INTRODUCTION

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy is very widely used for the management of tendinopathies and plantar fasciitis.

AIM

The aim of the study is to determine whether there are prognostic factors that may influence the outcome of extracorporeal shock wave therapy for these diseases.

METHODS

Three hundred fifty-five patients were analyzed 2 months after shock wave treatment for rotator cuff tendinitis, epicondylitis, Achilles tendinopathy, trocanteritis, jumper's knee or plantar fasciitis. We recorded the epidemiological, clinical and treatment protocol, and these data were correlated with treatment outcome.

RESULTS

Clinical improvement was achieved in 45.9 % of these patients. We discovered that laterality different to the dominant limb (p < 0.0001) and repeated shock wave treatments (p = 0.004) are prognostic factors in an unsuccessful therapy, while being male (p = 0.015) and a high body mass index (p = 0.004) are factors for success. We found no differences in relation to age, diet, blood type, work or sport activity, presence of co-morbidities, drugs, type of tendinopathy, density of energy delivered and other physiotherapy treatment. Knowledge of these prognostic factors may lead to improved insight for physicians and physiotherapists to predict the extent of the recovery and adjust rehabilitation and patient expectations accordingly.

Comparison of shock wave therapy and nutraceutical composed of Echinacea angustifolia, alpha lipoic acid, conjugated linoleic acid and quercetin (perinerv) in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome

Even though the initial treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is conservative, knowledge of the clinical effects of supplements and of some methods of physiotherapy is still preliminary. Many biological mechanisms can support the administration of shock wave therapy (ESWT) or of alpha lipoic acid (ALA) based nutraceutical, conjugated linoleic acid (GLA), anti-oxidants and Echinacea angustifolia for CTS. The shock waves reduce the nerve compression, produce an anti-inflammatory action, and accelerate the regeneration of neuropathy. ALA and GLA induce antioxidant protective actions, reduce inflammation, promote neuroregeneration, and decrease pain. The Echinacea modulates the endogenous cannabinoid system.The aim of study is to verify the efficiency of shock wave therapy versus nutraceutical composed of ALA, GLA, and Echinacea in CTS. Sixty patients were enrolled in this study and they were randomly assigned to one of two treatments. Both groups showed significant improvements in pain, symptoms' severity and functional scores, and electrodiagnostic results until the sixth month. We verified a trend to a better pain regression in the nutraceutical group. The presence of the medicinal Echinacea represents an added value to the antioxidant effect in ALA and GLA, which can justify this result. ESWT or the association of ALA, GLA, and Echinacea proved to be two effective treatments for controlling symptoms and improving the evolution of CTS.

Effects of extracorporeal shock wave therapy on functional and strength recovery of handgrip in patients affected by epicondylitis

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) is effective in the treatment of tendinopathy. We designed a prospective observational clinical study to assess the correlation between clinical and functional measures and recovery of strength after ESWT for epicondylitis. We analyzed 26 patients. We measured progressive improvement in visual analogue scale values (p < 0.0005) and Mayo Elbow Performance Index scores (p = 0.004) for the pathologic limb. Monitoring of handgrip failed to reveal changes in values at any follow-up (p > 0.05). We found no correlation between degree of clinical function and muscle deficit during follow-up. After ESWT, there was a tendency toward a decrease in grip strength, especially in the dominant limb. This could be related to the effects of ESWT, which reduces spasticity in painful hypertonic muscles. These data may be useful in defining the expectations for function during ESWT for epicondylitis, particularly for elite athletes.

SBOTE study: extracorporeal shock wave therapy versus electrical stimulation after botulinum toxin type a injection for post-stroke spasticity-a prospective randomized trial

Research is on-going to identify new methods of biostimulation to increase the effect of botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) in the treatment of spasticity. The Spasticity treated by Botulinum Toxin and ESWT (SBOTE) study is a prospective, randomized controlled trial assessing the effectiveness of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) given immediately after BTX-A injections compared with electrical stimulation (ES) given immediately after BTX-A therapy for the management of focal upper limb spasticity in stroke patients. ES was given for 30 min twice a day for 5 days starting at 5 Hz; ESWT was given once a day for 5 days. At study follow-up, patients treated with BTX-A injections and ESWT showed a statistically greater significance and continuous decrease of spasticity measure (modified Ashworth scale [MAS]: 1.37, 1.75 and 1.58 at 15, 30 and 90 days post-treatment, respectively), of spasms (spasm frequency scale [SFS]: 0.8 and 0.25 at 30 and 90 days post-treatment, respectively) and of pain (visual analogue scale [VAS]: 1.94 and 1.87 at 30 and 90 days, respectively) compared with patients treated with BTX-A injections and ES (MAS: 2.37, 2.18 and 2.18, respectively) (p < 0.05) (SFS: 1.5 and 1.06, respectively) (p < 0.05) (VAS: 2.44 and 2.69 respectively) (p < 0.05). ESWT enhances the effect of BTX-A to a greater extent than ES, probably by modulating rheology of the muscle and neurotransmission at the neuromuscular junction.

Extracorporeal shock-wave therapy reduces progression of knee osteoarthritis in rabbits by reducing nitric oxide level and chondrocyte apoptosis

INTRODUCTION

The goal for treating osteoarthritis (OA) is finding ways to decrease joint pain and dysfunction and prevent and slow the cartilage degeneration. Extracorporeal shock-wave therapy (ESWT) has been found to improve motor dysfunction and ameliorate pain with OA in animals. However, few studies have found that it can prevent and slow joint degeneration in vivo. The aim of study was to investigate the effect of ESWT on OA in rabbit.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 30 male New Zealand white rabbits were divided into 3 groups: control, OA induced by anterior cruciate ligament transaction (ACLT), and ALCT plus ESWT. The animals were killed at 4 and 8 weeks. Nitric oxide (NO) level was measured in the synovial cavity of knee joints, and cartilage sections were graded macroscopically by a Mankin scoring system. Chondrocyte apoptosis was investigated by flow cytometry and the expression of active caspase 3 by indirect immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

ESWT significantly reduced the NO level in the synovial cavity of knee joints (P < 0.05) and chondrocyte apoptosis (P < 0.05) of rabbits with OA. ESWT treatment significantly decreased the severity of cartilage lesions at both times as compared to rabbits with OA alone (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

ESWT reduced the progression of OA in rabbits. This effect may be related to decreased level of NO and is likely mediated by reduced chondrocyte apoptosis. ESWT may be a useful treatment for knee OA.

SWAAT study: extracorporeal shock wave therapy and arginine supplementation and other nutraceuticals for insertional Achilles tendinopathy

INTRODUCTION

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) produces good results in the treatment of insertional Achilles tendinopathy. The efficacy of combined administration of dietary supplements with ESWT has not yet been studied.

METHODS

In this prospective, randomized clinical trial, Shock Waves therapy and Arginine for Achilles Tendinopathy (SWAAT), subjects affected by insertional Achilles tendinopathy were enrolled. Between January and October 2011, all participants underwent three sessions of ESWT. In addition, the patients in the experimental group received a daily dietary supplement containing arginine, Vinitrox (Bio Serae Laboratories SAS, Bram, France), collagen, methyl-sulfonyl-methane, vitamin C, and bromelain, while the control group patients received placebo.

RESULTS

There was no statistically significant difference in the visual analog scale (VAS) score between the two groups at 2 months (3.9 vs. 5.1; P=0.07), whereas at 6 months the value was significantly lower in the experimental group (2.0 vs. 2.9; P=0.04). The difference in the Ankle-Hindfoot Scale score at 2 and 6 months of follow-up (FU) was significantly in favor of the experimental group (2 months: 85.4 vs. 72.1; P=0.0035; 6 months: 92.4 vs. 76.5; P=0.0002). The Roles and Maudsley score also showed a statistically significant difference between the two groups in favor of the experimental arm as regards patient satisfaction (at 2 months: 1.7 vs. 2.8; P<0.0001; at 6 months: 1.5 vs. 2.3; P<0.001). There was a statistically significant reduction in tissue oximetry values compared to baseline in both treatment groups at 2 and 6 months of FU. Comparing the groups, only at the last FU, at 6 months, was a significantly lower oximetry value observed in the experimental group versus controls (60.2 vs. 66.0; P=0.007).

CONCLUSION

On the basis of the results obtained in this study, the authors conclude that in the treatment of insertional Achilles tendinopathy, ESWT induces a hemodynamic re-equilibrium with an amelioration in tendon trophism [corrected]. The addition of specific dietary supplements could improve the therapeutic response.

Non-surgical management of early knee osteoarthritis

Conservative approach is usually the first choice for the management of the knee degeneration processes, especially in the phase of the disease recognized as early osteoarthritis (OA) with no clear lesions or associated abnormalities requiring to be addressed surgically. A wide spectrum of treatments is available, from non-pharmacological modalities to dietary supplements and pharmacological therapies, as well as minimally invasive procedures involving injections of various substances aiming to restore joint homeostasis and provide clinical improvement and possibly a disease-modifying effect. Numerous pharmaceuticals have been proposed, but since no therapy has shown all the characteristic of an ideal treatment, and side effects have been reported at both systemic and local level, the use of pharmacological agents should be considered with caution by assessing the risk/benefit ratio of the drugs prescribed. Both patients and physicians should have realistic outcome goals in pharmacological treatment, which should be considered together with other conservative measures. A combination of these therapeutic options is a more preferable scenario, in particular considering the evidence available for non-pharmacological management. In fact, exercise is an effective conservative approach, even if long-term effectiveness and optimal dose and administration modalities still need to be clarified. Finally, physical therapies are emerging as viable treatment options, and novel biological approaches are under study. Further studies to increase the limited medical evidence on conservative treatments, optimizing results, application modalities, indications, and focusing on early OA will be necessary in the future. Level of evidence IV.

Extracorporeal shockwaves versus surgery in the treatment of pseudoarthrosis of the carpal scaphoid

The peculiar anatomical characteristics and precarious vascularization of the carpal scaphoid are responsible for a difficult healing of fractures and a fairly frequent subsequent evolution to pseudoarthrosis. Recently, extracorporeal shockwaves therapy (ESWT) has yielded encouraging results in the treatment of pseudoarthrosis of various bone segments. We report a retrospective study comparing the results of application of three sessions of shockwaves therapy (SW) with energy flux density (EFD) impulses of 0.09 (SD = 0.02) mJ/mm(2) ESWT emitted by an electromagnetic generator in 58 patients (group I) affected by pseudoarthrosis of the carpal scaphoid, with the results of surgical treatment consisting of stabilization and bone graft according to the Matti-Russe technique, performed in 60 subjects (controls, group II). There were no statistically significant differences in the mean duration of the pseudoarthrosis (p = 0.46), sex distribution (p = 0.41) and mean age at recruitment (p = 0.95) between the two patient groups. Posttreatment clinical-functional assessment, based on the Mayo Wrist Score, showed a significantly improved score, rising from 28-74.6 in group I already after 2 mo (p < 0.001), with 86.3% of the results judged as satisfactory or excellent; in group II the mean score rose from 27.5-74.2 after 2 mo, with 83.4% of the results judged as satisfactory or excellent (p < 0.001). At the same two-months follow-up (FU), radiographic consolidation was shown in 75.9% of patients in group I and 76.7% in group II. These improvements persisted at the subsequent controls at six and 12 mo in both groups. The Mayo Wrist Score and X-rays did not show statistically significant differences at the various FU visits in the two groups (p > 0.05). On the basis of our data, we can conclude that the results of ESWT are comparable with those of surgical stabilization and bone graft in the treatment of scaphoid pseudoarthrosis. In view of their minimal invasiveness, shockwaves should therefore be considered the treatment of choice of this disorder.

Activation and dedifferentiation of chondrocytes: implications in cartilage injury and repair

Cartilage injury remains a major challenge in orthopedic surgery due to the fact that articular cartilage has only a limited capacity for intrinsic healing. Cartilage impaction is followed by a post-traumatic inflammatory response. Chondrocytes and synoviocytes are activated to produce inflammatory mediators and degradative enzymes which can induce a progradient cartilage self-destruction finally leading to secondary osteoarthritis (OA). However, an anti-inflammatory compensatory response is also detectable in cartilage by up-regulation of anti-inflammatory cytokines, probably a temporary attempt by chondrocytes to restore cartilage homeostasis. Matrix-assisted autologous chondrocyte transplantation (MACT) is a suitable technique for improving the rate of repair of larger articular cartilage defects. For MACT, autologous chondrocytes were isolated from a cartilage biopsy of a non-load bearing joint area. This technique requires sufficient expansion of differentiated autologous chondrocytes, which were then seeded on suitable biodegradable three-dimensional (3D) matrices to preform an extracellular cartilage matrix (ECM) before implantation into the defect. Cell expansion is accompanied by chondrocyte dedifferentiation, whereby substantial changes occur at multiple levels of chondrocyte synthetic profiles: including the ECM, cell surface receptors and cytoskeletal proteins. Since these dedifferentiated chondrocytes produce a non-specific mechanically inferior ECM, they are not suitable for MACT. 3D cultures are means of inducing and maintaining chondrocyte (re)differentiation and to preform ECM. The combination of MACT with anabolic growth factors and anti-inflammatory strategies using anti-inflammatory mediators might be useful for stabilizing the differentiated chondrocyte phenotype, to support neocartilage formation and inhibit post-traumatic cartilage inflammation and hence, the development of secondary OA.

A volleyball player with bilateral knee osteochondritis dissecans treated with extracorporeal shock wave therapy

We present a case report of a 14-year-old Caucasian sport woman affected by bilateral and symmetrical knee osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) addressed to surgery, in which extracorporeal shock wave therapy determined complete healing. Shock wave is a longitudinal acoustic wave traveling with the speed of ultrasound through the water of the body tissue. Recently, this therapy has been used in the treatment of a number of musculoskeletal pathologies on the basis of the effects produced by the induction of angiogenesis, recruitment of progenitor cells and downregulation of cartilage damage. This therapy is useful, because it is non-invasive, safe, without complications or adverse effects and repeatable. Thus, it could be suggested as a useful strategy for the treatment of OCD prior starting surgery.