Modalities
Shockwave Therapy
Non-invasive acoustic pressure waves for stubborn tendon and soft-tissue pain, alongside your rehab plan.
Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic pressure waves to help manage chronic musculoskeletal conditions. It is commonly used alongside physiotherapy to reduce pain, improve function and support the body's natural healing response.
Conditions we treat
- Plantar fasciopathy (heel pain)
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Patellar tendinopathy (jumper's knee)
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
- Gluteal tendinopathy (greater trochanteric pain syndrome)
- Proximal hamstring tendinopathy
- Selected shoulder tendon conditions
- Chronic muscle and soft-tissue pain
How does it work?
The acoustic waves stimulate the affected tissues, helping to:
- Reduce pain
- Improve blood circulation
- Promote tissue healing and remodeling
- Improve tolerance to movement and exercise
For best results, RSWT is combined with a personalized rehabilitation program including strengthening exercises, mobility training and activity modification.
What to expect
Treatment is performed using a handheld device that delivers controlled pressure waves to the affected area. Sessions typically last 10–20 minutes, and most people require 3–6 treatments depending on their condition. Some temporary soreness or redness after treatment is normal and usually resolves within a few days.
Is it right for you?
RSWT may be beneficial if you've been experiencing persistent tendon or soft-tissue pain that has not improved with rest or other conservative treatments. Your physiotherapist will determine whether this treatment is safe and appropriate based on your medical history and assessment.
Frequently asked questions
How many sessions will I need?
Most people require 3–6 treatments, depending on the condition and how you respond. Your physiotherapist will discuss this with you after assessment.
Is it painful?
You may feel some discomfort during treatment and temporary soreness or redness afterward, which usually settles within a few days.
Is shockwave enough on its own?
For best results it's combined with a loading and rehabilitation program — the exercise is what builds lasting tendon capacity.
Selected references
- Lippi L, et al. European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine. 2024.
- Charles R, et al. Frontiers in Immunology. 2023.
- Tenforde AS, et al. PM&R. 2022.
- International Society for Medical Shockwave Treatment (ISMST) Guidelines, 2024.
The information on this page is general and educational, and is not a substitute for an individual assessment or medical advice. Suitability for any treatment is determined by your physiotherapist.
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