Consensus statement on the clinical application of extracorporeal shock wave therapy for diabetic foot ulcers (2025 Edition)

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are among the most severe late-stage complications in patients with diabetes. It is characterized by complex pathogenic factors, challenging treatments, and high rates of disability and mortality. Therefore, DFUs have become a major therapeutic challenge for patients with diabetes. In recent years, extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) has emerged as a novel modality for promoting the healing of both acute and chronic superficial wounds. An increasing number of studies have demonstrated significant clinical efficacy in the treatment of DFUs. Developed by experts from the Wound Repair Committee of the Chinese Medical Doctor Association through an extensive review of high-quality literature, this consensus systematically outlines the indications, contraindications, standardized procedures, key technical points, post-treatment patient management and assessment, and prevention and management of potential complications related to ESWT for DFUs. This consensus aims to provide clinical guidance and a practical reference for physicians in wound repair departments to apply ESWT in the management of diabetic foot ulcers.