Persistent tendon or soft-tissue pain can make everyday movement and exercise frustrating. If you are exploring treatment options, you may have come across shockwave therapy. But what is shockwave therapy, and could it be suitable for your condition?
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy, also called extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that delivers acoustic waves through the skin to a targeted area. It is used in musculoskeletal care for problems such as some tendon conditions and other soft-tissue disorders.
The treatment does not involve surgery or an injection. A practitioner positions the device over the treatment area and delivers controlled acoustic pulses. The intensity and number of sessions can be adjusted according to the individual’s condition and treatment plan.
How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?
Shockwave therapy works through biological effects that are more complex than simply “breaking up” damaged tissue. Shockwaves interact with the treated tissues, but the exact biological mechanism behind their effects in tendinopathy is still not fully understood.
A useful way to think about the treatment is as one part of a wider rehabilitation plan rather than a standalone fix. Your clinician may combine it with exercises that gradually build strength, mobility and tolerance to activity.
What Does Treatment Feel Like?
Some people experience discomfort during treatment, particularly with higher-energy applications. Temporary redness, bruising, pain or local tenderness can also occur.
Is Shockwave Treatment Suitable for Everyone?
Not necessarily. The evidence varies depending on the condition being treated, and treatment protocols differ. For example, NICE notes that evidence for Achilles tendinopathy remains uncertain, so suitability should be assessed individually.
At Clinic4Sport, an assessment can help determine whether shockwave treatment fits your symptoms and rehabilitation goals.
Ready to explore your options? Contact Clinic4Sport to discuss your condition and treatment plan.