Have you ever heard of shock wave therapy for tennis elbow? What is it? Does it work?

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) is a way to generate sound waves outside the body that can be focused at a specific site within the body. This treatment technique is also referred to as pressure or sound wave therapy.

Pressure waves travel through fluid and soft tissue to sites where there is a change in tissue density. A common interface is where the soft tissues meet bone.

A special ESWT device delivers shockwaves to the target point where treatment is needed. The shockwaves break down scar tissue that has built up. The body's repair mechanisms are stimulated to promote healing. New blood vessels develop in the injured area to help jump start the healing process.

ESWT is a noninvasive, outpatient procedure. In some cases, only a single, 30-minute session is needed. Early studies report it is safe and effective. More research is needed to find out who can benefit the most and how and when to use this type of therapy.