Use of Acoustic Wave Therapy (AWT) in the Treatment of Cellulite
Johnson BJ; 2015
Synopsis: This research study tested the effectiveness of Acoustic Wave Therapy (AWT) in improving the appearance of cellulite.
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Cellulite is defined as skin relief alterations that give the skin an orange peel or mattress appearance. Historically, few treatments have been truly effective. Several studies have shown extracorporeal pressure waves, similar to Acoustic Wave Therapy (AWT) to be effective in the treatment of cellulite.
OBJECTIVES: To determine the effectiveness of Acoustic Wave Therapy (AWT) delivered using a ballistic pressure head (DActor) in improving the appearance of cellulite.
METHODS: Patients were recruited from phone calls and inquires made at a one location medical practice office. Patients were treated for cellulite based on their regions of complaint. An area was defined as a 20×30 cm area (typically the front or back of one thigh). Each area received 6 treatments consisting of 1,000 vertical pulses and 1,000 horizontal pulses. Patients had photographs and circumference measurements taken before and after treatment. Weight and electrical impedance measurements were taken before and after each treatment.
RESULTS: Adequate weight and body fat data was collected on 102 patients. Thigh circumference data was collected on 72 patients. Patient satisfaction surveys have been completed by 19 patients to date. All patients contributing data had before and after pictures taken. Average weight loss was small, 0.19 lbs (0.08 kg), and fell short of statistical significance, p=0.21. Similarly percentage body fat using lower body electrical impedance was small at 0.02% a non-significant change with p=0.45. Thigh circumference decrease was significant at 0.45 cm, p=0.025. Patients rated their posterior thigh treatment at 84% of perfect and anterior thigh treatment at 52% of perfect. Only 11% of responders (2 patients) disagreed that they were more confident in revealing clothing. Sixty eight percent of responders were more comfortable in revealing clothing and 74% were more comfortable with there body. Only 11% (2 patients) disagreed that they were more confident in their body. Seventy three percent of responders stated the treated area was closer to the appearance they desired. Only 11% of responders (2 patients) responded that the area was not closer to the appearance they desired. Before and after pictures reveal moderate to substantial improvement in the appearance of cellulite. Continued improvement in cellulite appearance was seen for up to 4 weeks past the end of treatment (maximum duration of follow-up).
CONCLUSIONS: AWT delivered by a ballistic impulse method is effective for improving the appearance of cellulite in the majority of patients. A small decrease in thigh diameter is also seen. No significant changes in weight or body fat composition were seen, The optimum number and timing of treatments and the use of complimentary techniques requires further study.
APA Citation: Johnson, B. (2015). Use of Acoustic Wave Therapy (AWT) in the Treatment of Cellulite. Retrieved 30 November 2015, from http://www.frischinstitut.ch/attachments/article/92/AWT%20Studies.pdf
AMA Citation: Johnson B. Use of Acoustic Wave Therapy (AWT) in the Treatment of Cellulite. 2015. Available at: http://www.frischinstitut.ch/attachments/article/92/AWT%20Studies.pdf. Accessed November 30, 2015.
