Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy (also called Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy or ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate healing in injured tissues. These controlled pulses increase blood flow, break down scar tissue, reduce inflammation, and trigger the body's natural repair mechanisms. It's particularly effective for chronic pain and injuries that haven't responded to other treatments.

Shockwave therapy is highly effective for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:

• Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
• Achilles tendonitis
• Tennis elbow and golfer's elbow
• Rotator cuff injuries and shoulder pain
• Jumper's knee (patellar tendinopathy)
• Shin splints
• Hip pain and trochanteric bursitis
• Chronic back and neck pain
• Scar tissue and trigger points
• Calcific tendonitis

Shockwave therapy works by delivering high-energy acoustic waves directly to injured tissue. These waves create controlled micro-trauma that triggers several healing responses: increased blood flow and nutrient delivery, breakdown of calcifications and scar tissue, stimulation of collagen production, release of growth factors, and pain reduction through nerve desensitization. The result is accelerated tissue regeneration and long-term pain relief.

Shockwave therapy can be uncomfortable, especially in the first few sessions or when treating highly inflamed areas. Most people describe it as a deep, pulsing pressure or intense tapping sensation. The discomfort is temporary and typically subsides as the area begins to heal. We adjust the intensity based on your tolerance and can modify the treatment to keep you comfortable. Many patients find that the long-term pain relief far outweighs the brief discomfort during treatment.

During treatment, your practitioner will apply gel to the affected area and use a handheld device to deliver acoustic waves to the injured tissue. The device is moved around the treatment area in a systematic pattern. Each session lasts 5-15 minutes depending on the condition being treated. You'll hear a pulsing sound and feel rhythmic pressure or tapping. After treatment, you may experience mild soreness or redness, similar to post-workout muscle fatigue.

Most conditions require 3-6 sessions spaced 5-10 days apart. Some people notice improvement after the first session, while others see progressive results over several weeks as healing continues between treatments. Chronic conditions or more severe injuries may benefit from additional sessions. Your practitioner will assess your response to treatment and adjust your plan accordingly.

Results vary by individual and condition. Some people experience immediate pain reduction, while others notice gradual improvement over 6-12 weeks as new tissue forms and inflammation decreases. The healing process continues even after your treatment series ends. Research shows that shockwave therapy can provide long-lasting results, with many patients experiencing sustained pain relief months or even years after treatment.

Shockwave therapy is considered very safe with minimal side effects. The most common temporary effects include mild soreness, redness, swelling, or bruising at the treatment site, which typically resolve within 24-48 hours. Serious complications are extremely rare. However, shockwave therapy is not recommended for people with certain conditions like active infections, blood clotting disorders, pregnancy, or those with pacemakers in the treatment area.

Coverage varies by insurance provider and plan. Some extended health insurance plans include shockwave therapy, particularly when prescribed as part of chiropractic, physiotherapy, or osteopathy treatment. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to confirm coverage. Even if not fully covered, many patients find shockwave therapy to be a worthwhile investment given its effectiveness in resolving chronic conditions that have resisted other treatments.

Before treatment: No special preparation is needed. Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the treatment area.

After treatment: Avoid anti-inflammatory medications (like ibuprofen) for 48 hours, as inflammation is part of the healing process. Stay active but avoid high-impact activities or intense exercise for 24-48 hours. Ice can be applied if there's significant soreness. Stay well-hydrated to support tissue healing. Most people can return to normal activities immediately, though you may experience some soreness.