Hao Y, et al. - Researchers assessed the role of extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) in improving osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). In order to compare the pain score and Harris hip score for ESWT treatment and other treatment strategies, standardized mean difference (SMD) values and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were pooled. Findings suggested a probable safety and efficacy of ESWT for the relief of pain and improvement of motor function of patients at an early stage. Findings suggested that between the two groups, there were no significant differences in pain score before and after treatment, but Harris hip score demonstrated significant differences.