Shockwave Therapy
Clinically proven, non-invasive treatment for chronic tendon pain and stubborn musculoskeletal conditions that have failed to respond to conventional therapy.
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a clinically proven, non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate healing in damaged tendons, ligaments and other soft tissues. The shockwaves are delivered directly to the affected area using a handheld applicator, triggering the body’s natural repair mechanisms.
Shockwave therapy is particularly effective for chronic conditions — those that have persisted for three months or more and have not responded adequately to physiotherapy, injections or other conservative treatments. It is widely used in elite sport and has an extensive evidence base supporting its effectiveness for tendinopathy and calcific conditions.
Evidence & Success Rates
Conditions We Treat With Shockwave
- Plantar fasciitis (heel pain)
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Patellar tendinopathy (jumper’s knee)
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
- Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis)
- Calcific shoulder tendinopathy
- Greater trochanteric pain syndrome
- Hamstring tendinopathy
- Tibialis posterior tendinopathy
- Chronic muscle trigger points
How Does It Work?
Stimulates Healing
Shockwaves trigger neovascularisation — the formation of new blood vessels — bringing fresh blood supply and nutrients to chronically deprived tissue.
Breaks Down Calcification
High-energy pulses break up calcific deposits in tendons, allowing them to be reabsorbed naturally by the body.
Reduces Chronic Pain
Shockwaves desensitise overactive pain receptors in the treated area, providing significant and lasting pain relief.
Promotes Collagen Synthesis
Stimulates the production of new collagen fibres to restore the structural integrity of damaged tendons and ligaments.
What to Expect
A typical course of shockwave therapy consists of 3 to 6 sessions delivered one week apart. Each session lasts approximately 15–20 minutes. During treatment, you may feel a deep tapping or mild discomfort at the treatment site — this is entirely normal and indicates the shockwaves are reaching the target tissue.
Most patients begin to notice improvement after the second or third session, with continued progress over the following weeks as the healing response builds. You will receive a tailored home exercise programme to complement your shockwave treatment.
Is shockwave therapy painful?
Most patients describe it as a mild to moderate discomfort during treatment that subsides quickly. The level of sensation is adjusted to your tolerance throughout the session.
How many sessions will I need?
Most conditions respond well to 3–6 sessions spaced one week apart. Your physiotherapist will advise you based on your specific condition and response to treatment.
Are there any contraindications?
Shockwave therapy is not suitable if you are pregnant, have a blood clotting disorder, are on anticoagulant medication, or if the treatment area is over a growth plate in children. Your clinician will screen for these during your assessment.
Struggling With Chronic Tendon Pain?
Shockwave therapy could be the solution you have been looking for. Book your assessment at Fenland Physio today.
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