Shock wave therapy is the revolutionary new non surgical method of treating orthopedic and musculoskeletal disorders this succient text is the first english language publication to present both the positive benefits and limitations of this innovative modality providing clear and concise information on treating a variety of orthopedic disorders. The application of shock wave therapy in certain musculoskeletal disorders has been around for approximately 15 years and the success rate in non union of long bone fracture calcifying tendonitis of the shoulder lateral epicondylitis of the elbow and proximal plantar fasciitis ranged from 65 to 91 the complications are low and negligible. To date the application of shock wave therapy swt in musculoskeletal disorders has been primarily used in the treatment of tendinopathies proximal plantar fasciopathy lateral elbow tendinopathy calcific tendinopathy of the shoulder and patellar tendinopathy etc and bone defects delayed and non union of bone fractures avascular necrosis of femoral head etc. The application of shock wave therapy in certain musculoskeletal disorders has been around for approximately 15 years and the success rate in non union of long bone fracture calcifying tendonitis of the shoulder lateral epicondylitis of the elbow and proximal plantar fasciitis ranged from 65 to 91 the complications are low and negligible