It can be disheartening to return to sport after an injury, especially when signs of pain persist despite exercise and other treatments. Shockwave therapy for sports injuries can be considered in such situations, as it is a non-invasive therapy that can be used along with rehabilitation for specific tendon and musculoskeletal injuries.
Research suggests that shockwave therapy may be beneficial for some sports-related conditions, although outcomes vary depending on the condition being treated.
What Are the Advantages of Shockwave Therapy for Sports Injuries?
Shockwave therapy might reduce pain and improve the functionality of some sports injuries, especially in regard to some tendon injuries. A 2024 review of 56 studies involving 1,874 athletes and active individuals reported potential benefits of shockwave therapy for some sports-related conditions.
May Help Reduce Pain
Getting accustomed to dealing with pain can prevent one from performing normal training for a long time. Shockwave therapy delivers acoustic waves through the skin to the targeted treatment area, and research suggests it may help reduce pain in some conditions.
May Complement Rehabilitation
Shockwave therapy can be viewed as part of a wider rehabilitation plan rather than a replacement for exercise. For some sports-related conditions, research suggests it may work as an adjunct to exercise therapy.
May Help With Persistent Tendon Problems
Tendon injuries can take time to recover, particularly when repeated loading continues. When clinically appropriate, shockwave therapy may form part of a structured approach to managing tendon-related symptoms, alongside progressive strengthening and appropriate activity modification.
Is Shockwave Therapy Suitable for Every Sports Injury?
No, it is not suitable for every sports injury. The evidence differs between conditions, and Evidence for shockwave therapy varies between conditions, and its use for some conditions, including Achilles tendinopathy, remains uncertain.
A practical way to assess treatment is to consider pain, function and load tolerance together. If pain is limiting movement but the underlying rehabilitation plan is not being addressed, shockwave therapy alone is unlikely to address all aspects of the underlying rehabilitation needs.
At Clinic4Sport, treatment should be considered according to the specific injury, symptoms, and rehabilitation needs rather than as a universal treatment approach.
Looking for support with your sports injury recovery? Contact Clinic4Sport to discuss whether shockwave therapy for sports injuries could be appropriate for your sports injury.