What is the difference between Radial Shockwave and Focused Shockwave

The primary difference between a shockwave generated by a radial shockwave machine and a focused shockwave machine lies in the way the shockwaves are produced and delivered. These differences impact the energy distribution, depth of penetration, and therapeutic applications of each type of shockwave. Here’s a breakdown of the distinctions:

1. Wave Generation:
• Radial Shockwave:
• Radial shockwaves are generated by an electromagnetic or pneumatic (air pressure) system. The shockwaves are produced when a projectile is accelerated inside a handpiece colliding with the applicator head at one end and creating pressure waves that spread out radially (in all directions) from the device’s focal point.
• Focused Shockwave:
• Focused shockwaves are generated by electrohydraulic or peizoelectric systems. These systems use a specific mechanism to create a focused and concentrated wave that travels directly to the targeted tissue. The term “focused” is a bit of a misnomer, as it implies the shockwave is only focused on a very small area. However some devices such as the Medispec focused shockwave have a very large focal zone (4.6×13.4 cm) . Essentially the focal zone is the area that will receive a therapeutic benefit from the treatment.

1. Energy Distribution:
• Radial Shockwave:
• Radial shockwaves are a slower shockwave, usually measure in microseconds and have a much shallower penetration than focused shockwaves. The energy disperses as it enters the tissue  making it suitable for treating shallower musculoskeletal structures like tendons and soft tissues.
• Focused Shockwave:
• Focused shockwaves have a much faster shockwave, measures in nanoseconds, and a higher energy flux, with the energy focused at a specific area. This makes them suitable for targeting deeper and more localized areas, including bones and deep-seated injuries.
2. Depth of Penetration:
• Radial Shockwave:
• Radial shockwaves have a shallower penetration depth of about a maximum 1-3cm, making them effective for treating conditions closer to the surface of the body.
• Focused Shockwave:
• Focused shockwaves penetrate deeper into the tissues, up to 13cm in the case of Medispec’s device, making them suitable for treating conditions in deeper anatomical structures.
3. Therapeutic Applications:
• Radial Shockwave:
• Radial shockwave therapy is often used for promoting blood flow, stimulating tissue regeneration, and treating conditions in superficial tissues. It is commonly employed for tendon disorders, soft tissue injuries, and certain musculoskeletal conditions. Although tissue regeneration may be possible, its primary action is more likely to be pain relief.
• Focused Shockwave:
• Focused shockwave therapy is used for more targeted treatments, such as breaking down calcifications, stimulating specific cellular responses, and addressing deep-seated musculoskeletal issues. It is often applied in conditions like calcific shoulder tendinopathy or certain bone-related problems. Focused shockwave can achieve angiogenesis and has a better restorative capacity compared to radial shockwave.

In summary, the key distinctions between radial and focused shockwave machines lie in the generation of shockwaves, the energy distribution, and the depth of penetration. The choice between the two depends on the specific clinical indications and the depth of the targeted tissues for effective treatment.