What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy uses externally applied acoustic pressure waves to deliver mechanical energy deep into soft tissue without breaking the skin. In musculoskeletal physiotherapy, it is used to restart the body's natural tendon repair process by stimulating cell growth, new blood vessel formation, and collagen remodelling. It is delivered using a handheld device in an outpatient clinic setting with no needles and no recovery time.
How Shockwave Therapy Treats Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) involves degenerative changes in the extensor tendons that attach to the outer elbow, rather than simple inflammation. Because degenerated tendon tissue has poor blood supply, it often resists rest, stretching, and anti-inflammatory medication. Shockwave energy penetrates the tendon insertion, creating micro-stimulation that recruits healing cells and promotes new collagen synthesis, effectively converting a chronic stalled injury into an active healing response.
What to Expect During Treatment at Realign Rehab Clinic
At Realign Rehab Clinic, NIT-5 Faridabad, Dr. Vaishali Suri will assess your elbow to confirm the diagnosis and identify the precise tendon attachment causing pain. Gel is applied and the shockwave handpiece is moved over the lateral epicondyle area in a systematic pattern for around 15 minutes. Three to five sessions scheduled one week apart is the standard protocol. You can return to daily activities immediately, although heavy gripping and repetitive wrist extension should be limited for 48 hours post-session.
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Tennis Elbow
- Stimulates tendon repair at the cellular level
- Reduces chronic lateral elbow pain durably
- No injections, surgery, or downtime required
- Effective for cases that have failed physiotherapy and cortisone injections
Is Shockwave Therapy Safe?
Shockwave therapy is a well-tolerated, low-risk procedure for most adults. Minor side effects include temporary redness, mild swelling, or bruising around the treated area. It is contraindicated over open wounds, active infection, tumour sites, or if you take blood-thinning medication. Pregnant women and patients with nerve disorders at the elbow require individual assessment before treatment begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
Tennis elbow treatment can feel sharp or stinging over the most sensitive point on the tendon attachment, but the intensity is always adjusted to your comfort. The discomfort during treatment is brief, and most patients tolerate it well with the knowledge that it signals effective mechanical stimulation of the target tissue.
How many sessions of shockwave therapy will I need?
Three to five sessions at weekly intervals is the typical protocol for tennis elbow. Patients with very chronic or resistant cases may benefit from up to six sessions. Most notice progressive improvement after the second or third session.
Is shockwave therapy available in Faridabad?
Yes. Shockwave Therapy is available at Realign Rehab Clinic, NIT-5 Faridabad. Dr. Vaishali Suri uses this technique as part of a comprehensive physiotherapy programme. Call +91 9818185589 to book.