Cavitation

In addition to the direct dynamic effect of shock waves on interfaces, so-called cavitation occurs in certain media such as water and sometimes body tissue as well.  Cavitation bubbles occur directly after the pressure/tension alternating load of the shockwaves has passed the medium.  A large number of bubbles grow and then violently collapse while emitting secondary spherical shock waves.

Micro-jet creation through collapsing cavitation bubbles

Cavitation is another biologically effective mechanism produced by shockwaves, which can be selectively used in localized areas, even in deeper tissue layers.  The physically induced energy causes biological reactions via different mechanisms.