Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave Therapy for Musculoskeletal Conditions

What is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy (also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy or ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to help improve healing of tissues. These sound waves are delivered through a handheld device and targeted at the painful or injured area. The treatment encourages blood flow, stimulates cell repair, and can reduce pain by overstimulating nerves in the area.

What Conditions Can It Help With?
Shockwave therapy is commonly used to treat long-standing (chronic) musculoskeletal conditions, especially when other treatments haven’t worked. These include:

• Plantar fasciitis (heel pain)
• Achilles tendinopathy (pain in the Achilles tendon)
• Patellar tendinopathy (pain below the kneecap)
• Tennis elbow (pain on the outside of the elbow)
• Calcific tendinopathy (calcium build-up in tendons)
• Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (lateral hip pain)

What to Expect During Treatment

• You’ll be assessed to confirm the diagnosis and suitability for shockwave therapy.
• A gel or oil is applied to the skin, and the device is used to deliver pulses to the affected area.
• Treatment usually lasts 3–5 minutes per session.
• You may feel a tapping or pulsing sensation, which can be adjusted for comfort.

After Treatment

• Mild soreness or discomfort is normal and usually settles within a few hours to days.
• You can return to normal activities straight away.
• A typical course involves 3 sessions over 3–6 weeks, with a follow-up review after 3 months recommended.

Are There Any Risks or Side Effects?
Shockwave therapy is generally safe, but it’s not suitable for everyone. You should not have this treatment if you:

• Are pregnant or trying to conceive
• Are under 18 years old
• Have had a steroid injection in the area within the last 12 weeks
• Have a bleeding disorder or are on certain blood-thinning medications
• Have a pacemaker or other implanted device
• Have cancer, infection, or acute inflammation at the treatment site

I will discuss any risks and check your medical history before starting treatment.

Want to Know More?
If you have questions or want to know if shockwave therapy is right for you, please email or book an appointment.