Struggling with persistent heel, shoulder, elbow or hip pain that’s lasted longer than 3 months? Maybe you’ve tried absolutely everything and you are at your wits end? Then it’s time to consider Shockwave Therapy.
Shockwave therapy is recommended by NICE guidelines especially for the treatment of conditions like plantar fasciitis and achilles tendinopathy. But what is it? Is it safe? And, most importantly, does it work?
Here at Pro-Active we are seeing some fantastic results with our brand-new Master Plus Storz Medical shockwave machine. Here’s a bit more about what Shockwave is and how it might help you.
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy (also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy or ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves—not electric shocks, (despite the name!) to target painful areas in the body. These high-energy acoustic waves stimulate the body’s natural healing process.
It’s commonly used for treating:
- Plantar fasciitis (heel pain)
- Tennis or golfer’s elbow
- Greater trochanteric pain (hip pain)
- Calcific tendinopathy (calcium deposits in tendons)
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Patellar tendinopathy
- Shoulder/Rotator cuff pain
- Shin splints
- Knee arthritis
How Does Shockwave Work?
When applied to the skin over a painful area, the shockwaves:
• Boost blood flow to the injured tissues
• Break up scar tissue or calcium deposits
• Stimulate the body to restart its own natural healing response and repair process
• Help to reduce pain by interrupting nerve signals and causing an anaesthetic response.
Over time, this can lead to reduced pain and improved movement—especially when combined with a tailored progressive rehabilitation programme.
What Does Treatment Feel Like?
Most people describe the sensation as uncomfortable but manageable—a bit like a series of quick taps or pulses against the skin. The intensity is adjustable, and your therapist will gradually build it up as you are able to tolerate more.
Each session usually lasts between 10 and 20 minutes, and most patients need 4 to 6 sessions, spaced a week apart.
What Are the Benefits?
• Non-invasive: No injections, surgery or long recovery time. Minimal side effects.
• Safe and quick: Carried out here at Pro-Active, no anaesthestic needed.
• Evidence-based: Recommended by NICE guidelines and the NHS. Scientifically proven to be beneficial.
Patients often notice some immediate relief, but the best results typically come a few weeks after the last session, as the healing process continues.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Most side effects are mild and temporary. You might experience:
• Some soreness or redness in the area treated
• Slight bruising
• Occasional numbness or tingling, which fades quickly
Your physio will discuss these with you and check that the treatment is suitable, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking long term medication.
Is It Right for You?
Shockwave therapy is especially useful if:
• You’ve had pain for over 3 months
• Other treatments (like targeted exercises, insoles, activity modification, stretching, or soft tissue massage) haven’t helped.
• You want to avoid surgery or injections.
However, it’s not suitable for everyone—for example, if you’re
Pregnant,
Have a blood clotting disorder,
Have recently had a steroid injection,
Take blood thinning drugs.
Our experience clinicians with take a full medical history and help decide if it’s the right option for you.
In Conclusion
Shockwave therapy offers a targeted, modern way to tackle long-standing pain and get you moving again.
If you would like to find out more please do get in touch. We will guide you through your options and whether shockwave therapy fits into your personalised treatment plan.
Book your shockwave treatment here today with any of our qualified physiotherapists.
