Cellulite on the stomach creates a lumpy, dimpled appearance on the skin, commonly referred to as “orange peel” or “cottage cheese.” It is also prevalent in the buttocks and thigh regions. Cellulite is present in 80 to 90 per cent of women, and while it isn’t physically harmful, it is a cosmetic concern that can impact mental health.

The science behind what exactly causes cellulite is very conflicted. Fat cells push the skin away from the long, connective cords that fasten it to the underlying muscle, which creates cellulite’s appearance. It is believed that cellulite is more prevalent in women than men due to the higher number of fat cells.

Genetics is considered to play the largest role in developing cellulite. Pregnancy can also contribute. Weight gain due to inactivity can make cellulite more noticeable, but thin people also have cellulite. Finally, cellulite can increase with age as skin loses its elasticity.

Treating Cellulite on the Stomach and Other Regions

There have been many therapeutic modalities proposed to treat cellulite with varying success, such as:

  • Topical agents
  • Ultrasound
  • Radiofrequency laser therapy
  • Therapeutic massage
  • Vibration/oscillation platform therapy
  • Carboxytherapy
  • Intense pulsed light

Recent clinical data suggest that shockwave therapy can improve skin elasticity in people with cellulite.

Shockwave therapy uses acoustic sound waves to boost metabolism and blood circulation in a targeted area to regenerate tissue. It is often used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions without the need for drugs or surgery.

One literature review published in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy found 12 studies that demonstrated shockwave therapy helped restructure skin properties and subcutaneous fat, clinically improving cellulite and localized fat.

Shockwave Therapy and Exercise

A randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology examined the effectiveness of combining shockwave therapy with aerobic exercise in reducing cellulite. Researchers split 45 women, aged 18 to 32, into three groups: group 1 performed just the exercise program, group 2 received shockwave therapy in addition to the exercise program, and finally group 3 was the control group.

Researchers noted a P-value of 0.032 between group 2 and group 1, as well as a P-value of 0.042 between group 2 and the control group. They concluded that combining shockwave therapy with aerobic exercise effectively reduced the severity of cellulite.

Reduce Cellulite on the Stomach With Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave Canada is the exclusive distributor of Storz shockwave devices, the industry leader in shockwave technology. The MASTERPULS® Ultra MP200, for instance, combines shockwave therapy with cupping and vibration therapy, giving your practice the ultimate in comprehensive care.

Call 1 (888) 741-SHOC(7462) or visit our website to learn more about how shockwave therapy can help your patients.