Shockwave Therapy

Non-invasive extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) for chronic tendon conditions, plantar fasciitis, and bone healing - evidence-based results without surgery.

Book Appointment

What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that delivers focused acoustic energy to injured tissue. It stimulates biological healing responses including increased blood flow, cellular repair, and pain modulation.

Conditions Treated

Plantar fasciitis - One of the strongest evidence bases for shockwave therapy.
Achilles tendinopathy - Both mid-portion and insertional conditions.
Patellar tendinopathy - Jumper's knee that has plateaued with exercise alone.
Rotator cuff tendinopathy & calcific tendinitis - Shockwave can break down calcific deposits.
Tennis elbow & golfer's elbow - Chronic lateral and medial epicondylitis.
Greater trochanteric pain syndrome - Lateral hip pain from gluteal tendinopathy.
Delayed fracture healing - Shockwave can promote bony healing in non-unions.

What to Expect

Shockwave therapy is typically delivered as a course of 3-5 sessions, spaced 1-2 weeks apart. Each session takes approximately 15-20 minutes. The treatment is performed in-clinic and does not require anaesthesia. You can return to normal activities immediately, though some temporary discomfort at the treatment site is common.

Is Shockwave Right for Me?

Shockwave therapy is most effective for chronic conditions (typically symptoms lasting more than 3 months) that have not fully responded to first-line treatments such as exercise and load management. Suitability is assessed during your consultation as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What conditions does shockwave therapy treat?

Shockwave therapy has strong evidence for plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, patellar tendinopathy, rotator cuff tendinopathy and calcific tendinitis, lateral and medial epicondylitis (tennis and golfer's elbow), greater trochanteric pain syndrome (gluteal tendinopathy), and delayed fracture healing. Dr Wells assesses suitability during your consultation.

How many shockwave therapy sessions will I need?

Shockwave therapy is typically delivered as a course of 3 to 5 sessions, spaced 1 to 2 weeks apart. Each session takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes. The number of sessions required depends on your condition and how you respond to treatment.

Is shockwave therapy painful?

Shockwave therapy can cause some discomfort during the session, particularly over the most sensitive part of the tendon. This is generally well-tolerated and no anaesthesia is required. Some patients experience temporary soreness at the treatment site for 24 to 48 hours after each session, which typically settles quickly.

When should I consider shockwave therapy?

Shockwave therapy is most effective for chronic conditions - typically symptoms lasting more than 3 months - that have not fully responded to first-line treatments such as exercise and load management. It is not usually the first treatment option but is highly effective when used appropriately as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.