CELLULITE REDUCTION SHOCKWAVE TREATMENT

Background

Cellulite is a widespread problem involving females' buttocks and thighs based on the female specific anatomy. Given the higher number of fat cells stored in female fatty tissue in contrast to males, the gender specific dimorphism with subdermal septae orientated orthogonally towards the skin, and the ageng process of connective tissue lead to an imbalance between lipogenesis and lipolysis with subsequent large fat cells bulging the skin.

Cellulite is normally categorised into 3 grades (4 if you include no cellulite). The grades are important as several studies have shown patients can normally be improved by 1 grade (Schlaudraff et al 2014). The grades are (grade 0 is no dimpling even with pressure applied):

1. Dimpling when pressure applied

2. Dimpling visible standing but not lying down

3. Dimpling visible even when lying

Shockwave Therapy and Cellulite

Shockwave therapy, thanks to its proven biological action, is increasingly used in the treatment of diseases in many areas of medicine. In recent years, there is an increasing interest in the use of shockwave therapy. This type of treatment is present not only in internal medicine or physiotherapy, but also in cosmetology. Here the main area of ​​application is cellulite therapy. Lipodystrophy (scientific name of cellulite) is primarily an aesthetic defect that does not have a significant impact on health in the early stages.

How Does it Work?

Shockwave therapy works in four different ways:

• Shockwave creates a mechanical effect, which means that it mobilises the connective tissue. This tissue flexes, loosening it up, yet strengthening it at the same time. This results in denser elastin, which will improve the firmness and flexibility of your skin.

• The treatment will aid lymphatic drainage. This ensures that broken down fat cells are removed, draining away in the lymph and processed out of the body.

• You will also see your body tone because of the fact that the vibration from the shockwave transfers to the muscles as well. This causes the muscles to resist and contract, which generates a toning effect.

• Shockwave treatment will also increase the flow of blood to the treatment area. This is because of the high pressure of the therapy. The increased blood flow increases the size of your existing blood vessels, as well as encouraging new ones to be created. This is known as neovascularisation. Improved blood flow will also increase oxygen and nutrients to the area, which means that you will see long-term benefits from this treatment as well.

The Benefits of Shockwave Therapy

There are a number of different reasons why people have shockwave therapy. It is effective for anyone looking to achieve the following goals:

• Reducing cellulite

• Supporting lymphatic drainage

• Reduced pain

• Tightening the skin

• Tackling stretch marks

• Addressing stubborn pockets of fat