What is the difference between focused extracorporeal shock wave therapy (f-ESWT) and radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy (r-ESWT) for sports injuries?

Doctor’s answer

Radial (ballistic pneumatic) shock waves release energy primarily in superficial tissues (depth 1~3cm), with rapid diffusion attenuation, suitable for large-area myofascial pain, muscle spasms, and superficial tendinopathy. Focused shock waves penetrate deeper (up to 5~12cm), allowing high energy to be precisely focused on deep targets (such as nonunion, deep bone marrow edema in stress fractures, deep calcific tendinitis, and talar osteochondral lesions). The choice depends on lesion depth and tissue type.

This content is for education. Diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation require an individual assessment by a sports medicine specialist.