The application of extracorporeal shock waves in the locomotor apparatus offers new therapeutic concepts. This book provides an up-to-date overview on the use of shock waves in orthopaedics. The main emphasis is laid on the basics of shock wave techniques and on the impact of shock waves on cells and organs. The reader is provided with a summary of experimental and clinical results of shock wave therapy applied to the bone and the epiphyseal growth plate. Authors from five clinical centres report on their experiences with shock wave therapy in tendinosis calcarea, epicondylopathy and calcar spur. Furthermore they report on first experiences with shock wave therapy in children with cerebral paresis.