Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to promote healing in injured soft tissues, bones, and joints. Originally developed to break down kidney stones, it is now widely used in physical therapy, sports medicine, orthopedics, and pain management.
This innovative therapy stimulates blood flow, accelerates tissue repair, reduces inflammation, and helps eliminate chronic pain without surgery or medication.
Shockwave therapy is highly effective in treating a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, especially those involving chronic pain, inflammation, or tissue damage. Here are the most common conditions it can help:
One of the leading causes of heel pain, plantar fasciitis responds well to shockwave therapy by breaking up scar tissue and improving blood circulation in the heel.
Shockwaves reduce pain and stimulate tendon repair in patients with tennis elbow caused by repetitive strain.
Similar to tennis elbow, this condition affects the inside of the elbow. Shockwave therapy promotes healing and reduces inflammation in the affected tendons.
Shockwaves help break down calcium deposits and reduce pain caused by inflamed rotator cuff tendons.
This overuse injury can cause pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon. Shockwave therapy increases blood flow to promote tendon healing.
Athletes who experience chronic knee pain from jumping or running may benefit from ESWT to relieve pain and accelerate healing.
Shockwave therapy can reduce inflammation and pain in the outer hip caused by irritated bursae or tendons.
ESWT may help alleviate the pain and inflammation in the lower legs caused by overuse or repetitive impact.
Trigger points in tight muscles can be treated with focused shockwaves to relieve pain and restore muscle function.
Shockwave therapy may help stimulate bone regeneration and healing in specific cases where fractures are slow to heal.
✔️ Non-invasive, no need for surgery
✔️ No anesthesia or downtime required
✔️ Stimulates natural healing processes
✔️ Improves mobility and function
✔️ Proven results in chronic pain conditions
✔️ Short treatment sessions (usually 15-30 minutes)
During a shockwave therapy session:
A gel is applied to the targeted area
A handheld device delivers high-energy acoustic waves to the affected tissues
Treatment typically lasts 15–30 minutes
Most patients require 3–6 sessions for optimal results
Some patients experience mild discomfort during the procedure, but it’s generally well-tolerated. Improvement is often noticeable within a few sessions.
Shockwave therapy is ideal for patients who: