Extracorporeal shock wave therapy inhibits osteoclast differentiation by targeting NF-κB signaling pathway.

Background: Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) has been reported to promote osteoblast differentiation. However, the role of ESWT on osteoclast differentiation is still elusive.

Methods: This study analyzed the differentiation of osteoclasts in the shock wave group and the control group in vitro, and TRAP staining, RT-PCR, WB assays, and MTT assays were assessed between the two groups. Furthermore, we analyzed the bone formation in these two groups in vivo and micro-CT and trap staining were assessed between the two groups.

Results: We found that ESWT inhibited osteoclast maturation in vitro and ESW treatment of femur promoted bone formation in vivo. Mechanically, osteoclast differentiation was inhibited as the number of impulses increased and ESWT decreased endogenous levels of NTAFc1 and P65 protein.

Conclusions: ESWT may be a potential therapy of osteoporosis through NF-κB signaling pathway.