Shockwave Therapy
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave Therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment used to stimulate healing in damaged or slow-healing soft tissues.
The treatment works by delivering controlled impulses of sound waves into the affected area. These shockwaves agitate the tissue, increasing blood flow and encouraging the body’s natural repair processes. This makes Shockwave Therapy particularly effective for conditions where healing has stalled or pain has become persistent.
In addition to promoting tissue repair, Shockwave Therapy can also have a direct pain-relieving effect, helping to reduce sensitivity and discomfort during everyday activities such as walking or standing.
Why do I need Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy?
Shockwave Therapy is commonly recommended for long-standing or recurring soft tissue injuries, particularly where symptoms have not fully resolved with rest, footwear changes, or basic treatment alone.
It is especially effective for conditions involving tendon irritation, degeneration, or reduced blood supply, where the body needs additional stimulation to restart the healing process.
Shockwave Therapy is frequently used to help treat:
- Plantar fasciitis and ongoing heel pain
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Other tendon injuries affecting the foot and ankle
- Chronic soft tissue pain that flares up during walking or activity
By addressing pain at its source, Shockwave Therapy can help improve function, reduce discomfort, and support long-term recovery without the need for invasive procedures.
How is it applied?
Shockwave Therapy is applied using a handheld probe placed directly over the affected area. Treatment typically lasts around five minutes, depending on the condition being treated and the size of the area involved.
Most people experience mild to moderate discomfort during treatment, but it is generally well tolerated. Any initial discomfort usually settles quickly as the area becomes temporarily desensitised. Your podiatrist will adjust the treatment settings to suit your comfort level.
Following ESWT treatment, your podiatrist may also use manual therapy techniques and provide tailored exercise advice to support recovery. Addressing contributing factors such as foot mechanics, activity levels, or footwear is often key to achieving lasting results.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shockwave Therapy
What is shockwave therapy?
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses focused sound waves to stimulate healing in injured soft tissue and reduce pain. It increases blood flow, breaks down scar tissue, and accelerates recovery.
How does shockwave therapy relieve pain?
The impulses agitate the tissue and improve circulation, triggering the body’s natural repair process. It also has a pain-relieving effect by desensitising nerve endings in the treated area.
What conditions does it treat?
Shockwave therapy is effective for chronic soft tissue conditions including plantar fasciitis (heel pain), Achilles tendinopathy, and other tendon injuries that haven’t responded to rest or other treatments.
Is the treatment painful?
Some people experience mild discomfort during the procedure, but this usually eases quickly as the area becomes desensitised. Your podiatrist will adjust the intensity to suit your comfort level.
How long does each session take?
Each shockwave therapy session typically lasts around 5 minutes. The full course of treatment may involve several sessions, depending on your condition.
What happens after treatment?
You may feel temporary soreness, but this usually passes quickly. Your podiatrist may recommend complementary treatments such as exercise therapy or manual mobilisation to support your recovery.
How soon will I see results?
Many patients begin to feel improvement after just a few sessions, although long-term healing occurs gradually as the tissue regenerates over time.
Shockwave Therapy vs Other Treatments
| Treatment Option | Rest & Home Care | Medication/Injections | Shockwave Therapy (TFH) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Targets underlying tissue damage | ✘ | Sometimes | ✔ |
| Stimulates natural healing process | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Reduces chronic pain without medication | ✘ | Temporary | ✔ |
| Non-invasive treatment | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Effective for long-standing tendon issues | Unlikely | Variable | ✔ |
| Combined with rehab plan & manual therapy | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
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