Clinical Trial on Shock Wave Therapy for Chronic Back Pain Begins in Münster
The Department of General Orthopedics and Orthopedic Oncology at the University Hospital of Münster is conducting a clinical study to investigate the effectiveness of focused extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) for chronic lower back pain. The goal is to gain new scientific insights into the treatment of this widespread condition.
Chronic lower back pain (low back pain) is one of the most common causes of reduced quality of life and work capacity. In addition to structural changes in the spine, muscular tension and so-called myofascial trigger points in particular can contribute to the onset and persistence of these symptoms.
As part of this newly launched randomized controlled trial, researchers will investigate whether focused extracorporeal shock wave therapy can serve as an effective treatment alternative to established physical therapy. To this end, a total of 60 patients will be divided into two treatment groups. In addition to changes in pain intensity, the study will also examine functional limitations in daily life, quality of life, and psychological well-being. Follow-up will continue for up to twelve weeks after the completion of treatment.
Dr. Martin Schulze, from the Department of Experimental Orthopedics at the Clinic for General Orthopedics and Orthopedic Oncology at the University Hospital of Münster, is the study’s principal investigator.
For the clinical conduct of the study, the research team is working closely with two partners in Münster: Dr. Hannes Müller-Ehrenberg’s private orthopedic practice / Trigger Point Center Münster is providing focused shock wave therapy, while the Therapy Center at Bült is conducting the physical therapy treatments for the control group.
The study is being conducted as a randomized, controlled post-market clinical follow-up (PMCF) study and is funded by MTS Medical AG. The Westfalen-Lippe Ethics Committee reviewed the research project on June 10, 2026, under file number 2026-432-f-S, and found no fundamental ethical or legal objections to its conduct.
In addition to the clinical partners, MTS Medical and ai6 SOLUTIONS are also involved in the preparation and implementation. We would like to extend our special thanks to Dr. Hannes Müller-Ehrenberg, the entire team at the Therapiezentrum am Bült, and all participating staff and project partners for their dedicated preparation and trusting collaboration.
The launch of the study marks an important step toward further improving the scientific evidence regarding the use of focused shock wave therapy for chronic back pain.
To contact the study team if you are interested or have questions: info-eswt.studie@ukmuenster.de
