Terapia por ondas de choque extracorpóreas nas tendinopatias do ombro: uma revisão integrativa

Abstract

Introduction: Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive physiotherapy resource widely used in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, particularly shoulder tendinopathies. Its mechanical and biological effects promote analgesia, improve microcirculation, and stimulate tissue regeneration, making it an effective alternative for patients who do not respond to conventional treatment. Objective: To analyze, through a systematic review, the effects of ESWT on pain modulation and function in individuals with shoulder tendinopathies. Methods: An integrative search was conducted in the databases PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, PEDro, LILACS, and SciELO databases between 2016 and 2025. Randomized clinical trials with adult individuals diagnosed with rotator cuff tendinopathy, assessed by pain and function scales (VAS, SPADI, DASH, and CMS), were included. Methodological quality was measured using the PEDro scale (≥6 points). Results: Six studies were included, totaling approximately 525 participants. Significant improvement in pain and function was observed after the use of ESWT, especially with focal protocols and controlled parameters (3-4 sessions, 2000-3000 impulses, 0.09-0.32 mJ/mm²). No serious adverse events were reported, demonstrating safety and good tolerability. Conclusion: ESWT proved to be effective and safe in the treatment of shoulder tendinopathies, promoting pain reduction, functional improvement, and favoring the tissue repair process. However, standardizing application protocols is recommended to optimize its clinical results. [resumo fornecido pelos autores]