Abstract: Abstract Aims: To evaluate the efficacy of the treatment with low-energy radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy (rESWT or RSWT) in computer-related repetitive strain injuries (RSIs). Methods: In a prospective randomized controlled single-blind,82 adults with computer-related RSIs diagnosed by a qualified orthopedist and physiatrist were randomly assigned to study group and control group. There were 41 patients in the study group and 41 patients in the control group. Both groups had received a treatment per week for 3-5 weeks; The study group had received on average 2000 pulses of RSWT at pressure of 2.0 bar (8Hz,0.08 mJ/mm2) according to Swiss EMS DolorClast equipment and the control group 20 pulses of RSWT. All subjects were assessed 3 times: before treatment, at the end of treatment and to 3 months follow-up. Outcome measures consisted of visual analogue scores (VAS) for pain in the day and at night and functional impairment level. The outcome was considered to be excellent if there was a reduction of pain by VAS between the 80.0 and 100.0,a resumption of working activity without limitations. The outcome was considered as good if the reduction of pain was between 60.0 and 79.9, working activity was resumed with mild limitation. The outcome was considered fair if there was a reduction of pain by VAS between 30.0 and 59.9,a resumption of working activity with moderate limitations. The cases were considered poor when a reduction of pain was not referred, resumption of working activity with severe limitation. Results: Statistical analysis of VAS, disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand(DASH) measures had shown, both after treatment and to the follow-up of 3 months, significant difference comparing study group versus control group (p≤0.017).Eighty-two subjects participated and there were no significant differences between the two groups at baseline. A significant improvement in pain and functions was noted only in the study group after treatment and at 3 months follow-up. The rate of good and excellent outcomes according to the improvement in pain and function was significantly (56%, 76%) better in the study group than in the control group after treatment and at 3 months follow up respectively. Conclusions: RSWT significantly improves pain, function, and quality of life compared with sham therapy in patients with computer-related repetitive strain injuries.

Key words: Keywords: computer-related strain injuries, Shock wave, Treatment