Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave Therapy FAQs

Shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), is a safe, non-invasive treatment designed to stimulate the body’s natural healing process. Often used to treat persistent tendon pain, shockwave therapy is backed by strong clinical evidence and has become a trusted alternative to surgery for a range of chronic conditions.

At Vale Health Clinic, we use advanced technology to deliver targeted, personalised care. We address some of the most frequently asked questions about shockwave therapy and provide a clear understanding of what to expect before, during, and after your treatment.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy works by delivering high-energy acoustic pulses directly into the affected tissues. These mechanical waves help to stimulate circulation, encourage cell regeneration and break down damaged or calcified tissue.

Unlike electrical therapies, shockwave treatment uses sound waves to trigger a localised healing response. The process encourages the formation of new blood vessels and the development of healthy tissue in areas where chronic damage has occurred.

Conditions Treated with Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is clinically proven to help with several stubborn tendon and musculoskeletal problems. It is particularly effective when the condition has been present for six months or longer and has not improved with standard treatments such as rest, physiotherapy or pain medication.

Conditions we treat include:

Plantar fasciitis
Achilles tendinopathy
Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow
Patella tendinopathy (jumper’s knee)
Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (hip)
Proximal hamstring tendinopathy
Calcific tendonitis of the shoulder

These conditions are often caused by repetitive strain or long-term overuse and may involve degeneration rather than simple inflammation. Shockwave therapy can help to reverse this process and restore healthy tendon function.

When Shockwave Treatment Is Recommended

Shockwave therapy is usually considered once other conservative treatments have been tried and symptoms have persisted for at least six months. It is especially beneficial when pain interferes with daily movement, work, or physical activity.

Leaving a tendon issue untreated for too long can lead to further degeneration or even rupture. It can also cause compensation problems elsewhere in the body. For instance, someone limping due to heel pain might begin to experience difficulties in the knee, hip or lower back. Early intervention can help prevent this broader impact on your musculoskeletal health.

The Healing Process in Action

Once shockwave treatment is delivered to the affected area, the body is prompted to respond as if it is dealing with a new injury. This reaction encourages:

Increased blood flow and nutrient delivery
Formation of new connective tissue
Reduction of pain over time
Gradual breakdown of calcified or damaged areas

Unlike short-term pain relief methods, shockwave therapy addresses the underlying issue, promoting long-term recovery and tissue strengthening.

What Happens During Your treatment

Your first appointment will include a complete assessment with one of our experienced practitioners. This involves a clinical examination and may include an ultrasound scan to pinpoint the exact area of damage.

Treatment is then delivered using a handheld device that emits a series of rapid, focused acoustic pulses. A water-based gel is applied to the skin to improve contact and ensure the waves penetrate the tissue effectively. The treatment lasts approximately 18 minutes, although the whole appointment may take longer to allow for assessment and provide aftercare advice.

Some people find the treatment slightly uncomfortable. This is usually described as a deep, tapping or clicking sensation. Our team will work with you to adjust the settings to ensure the session is both practical and tolerable.

Aftercare and Recovery Timeline

Most people notice an improvement within a few weeks of starting treatment. While results vary from person to person, the majority of patients experience significant pain reduction and better mobility by the 12th to 16th week following treatment.

You may feel a slight ache or bruised sensation for a day or two after a session. This is a normal part of the healing process and usually settles quickly.

It is important not to apply ice or take anti-inflammatory medication following treatment. This is because the body’s healing relies on a natural inflammatory response. Paracetamol or other mild pain relief may be used if needed, but we advise avoiding anything that could disrupt this biological repair process.

The Technology We Use

At Vale Health Clinic, we utilise the Dornier EPOS Ultra shockwave therapy machine that provides a precise and comfortable treatment experience. It is approved for the treatment of chronic plantar fasciitis and other tendon conditions.

The Dornier EPOS Ultra provides:

Real-time ultrasound guidance to target the injury site with exceptional accuracy
A range of energy levels and settings for fully individualised treatment
Side-entry wave delivery to minimise pain and avoid direct impact on the bone

This technology enables us to provide highly personalised treatment plans and achieve the best possible outcomes for our patients.

Comparing Shockwave to Other Options

Many people turn to cortisone injections, physiotherapy or rest in the early stages of tendon pain. These approaches may be effective when the problem is still acute and mainly inflammatory. However, once a condition becomes chronic, it usually involves tissue degeneration. At this point, injections and anti-inflammatories tend to offer only short-term relief.

Surgery used to be the only option for repairing stubborn tendon injuries, but it involves risks, a lengthy recovery and time off work. Shockwave therapy provides a much safer and more efficient alternative, helping the body to heal naturally without the need for invasive procedures.

FAQs

Q: Is the treatment painful?
Some discomfort is expected, but it usually settles quickly after the session. Many people describe it as a tapping sensation. If it becomes too uncomfortable, we can adjust the settings.

Q: Will I feel sore afterwards?
A mild ache or bruising may occur, typically lasting 24 to 48 hours. Most people continue with their usual activities without difficulty.

Q: How many sessions will I need?
Most patients require three to six sessions, spaced a week apart. Complex or long-standing conditions may need additional sessions, which will be discussed during your consultation.

Q: Can I go back to work after the treatment?
Yes. As shockwave therapy is non-invasive, there is no need for downtime. Most people return to work or normal activities immediately.

Q: Can I exercise after treatment?
We advise avoiding high-impact activity for a day or two after your session. Your practitioner will guide you on when and how to safely return to exercise based on your condition.

Q: Is there anyone who should not have shockwave therapy?
It is not recommended during pregnancy, or for individuals with certain bleeding disorders or who are taking blood-thinning medication. Your medical history will be reviewed during your consultation to ensure it is safe and appropriate.

Vale Health Clinic for Shockwave Therapy

We offer expert-led shockwave treatment in a professional and caring environment. Our clinicians are experienced in musculoskeletal rehabilitation and utilise advanced diagnostic tools to ensure that each treatment is precisely targeted and fully tailored to your individual needs.

Shockwave therapy is often part of a wider rehabilitation plan. We may combine it with physiotherapy, manual therapy or specific exercises to support your long-term recovery and prevent recurrence.

If you have been living with persistent tendon pain that is affecting your quality of life, shockwave therapy could offer the relief you have been looking for. It is a safe and well-researched option that helps the body heal from within, reducing the need for surgery or long-term medication.

Contact Vale Health Clinic today to schedule your consultation or speak with one of our specialists. We are here to help you move better, feel better and recover with confidence.