What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) uses high-energy acoustic (pressure) waves applied to the skin surface over the target tissue. These waves stimulate tissue healing, break down calcifications, increase local blood flow, and have analgesic effects through temporary desensitisation of pain fibres. Shockwave therapy is particularly effective for chronic tendon and soft tissue conditions that have not responded adequately to conventional physiotherapy.

Conditions Treated

Plantar Fasciitis: The most common application. Multiple RCTs demonstrate significant pain reduction in chronic plantar fasciitis. Achilles Tendinopathy: Both mid-portion and insertional, particularly where eccentric loading has not been fully effective. Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylalgia): Chronic lateral elbow tendinopathy. Calcific Shoulder Tendinopathy: Calcium deposits within the rotator cuff — shockwave can break up and resorb calcifications. Patellar Tendinopathy: Chronic 'jumper's knee'. Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome: Hip abductor tendinopathy.

How Many Sessions Are Needed?

A standard course is 3–5 sessions at weekly intervals. Most patients notice improvement after 2–3 sessions. The healing process continues for up to 12 weeks after the course of treatment.

Is Shockwave Painful?

Shockwave therapy causes a temporary aching or stinging sensation during treatment, which most patients find tolerable. Post-treatment soreness lasting 24–48 hours is normal. Local anaesthetic is occasionally used for very sensitive areas.

Who Is Not Suitable?

Contraindications include: pregnancy over the treatment area, blood clotting disorders, infection at the treatment site, tumours in the treatment area, and treatment near growth plates in children.