Shockwave Therapy: What It Is and How It Helps

If you’ve heard about shockwave therapy but aren’t sure what it does, you’re in the right spot. It’s a non‑invasive treatment that uses high‑energy sound waves to stimulate healing in damaged tissue. Doctors use it for things like chronic tendon pain, plantar fasciitis, and even some kidney stones. The best part? No surgery, no long downtime.

How Shockwave Therapy Works

During a session, a handheld device sends acoustic waves through the skin to the problem area. Those waves create tiny micro‑traumas that trigger the body’s natural repair processes. Blood flow increases, new cells form, and pain‑causing nerves calm down. Most people feel a mild tapping sensation; it’s not painful, but you do feel it.

Typical treatment plans involve 3‑5 sessions spaced a week apart. Each session lasts about 10‑15 minutes, so you can fit it into a lunch break. The exact number of treatments depends on how deep the issue is and how quickly your body responds.

Common Conditions Treated with Shockwave Therapy

Here are the top reasons doctors recommend it:

• Plantar fasciitis: Heel pain that won’t quit after rest.
• Achilles tendinopathy: Pain and stiffness in the calf tendon.
• Calcific shoulder tendinitis: Calcium deposits that limit shoulder motion.
• Elbow epicondylitis (tennis elbow): Pain on the outer forearm.
• Kidney stones: Small stones that can be broken apart without surgery.

People also use it for erectile dysfunction and certain skin conditions, but those uses are still being studied.

What to Expect Before, During, and After Your Session

Before the first visit, your doctor will review your medical history and do a quick exam. No special prep is needed – just wear comfortable clothing that lets the therapist access the treatment area.

During the session, you’ll lie down while the therapist moves the probe over the target spot. You might feel a tingling or a light pounding, but it shouldn’t be painful. If it feels too intense, let the therapist know; they can adjust the energy level.

Afterward, you can usually go about your day. Some folks notice a mild soreness that fades after a day or two, similar to a light workout. Ice, gentle stretches, and staying hydrated help speed recovery.

Safety Tips and Who Should Avoid Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is safe for most adults, but avoid it if you have:

• Active infection at the treatment site.
• Blood clotting disorders or are on strong anticoagulants.
• Pregnancy (especially in the abdominal area).
• A metal implant or pacemaker near the area being treated.

Always tell your provider about any medications, recent surgeries, or medical devices you have. A qualified therapist will tailor the treatment to keep you safe.

Ready to give shockwave therapy a try? Talk to your doctor or physiotherapist to see if it fits your condition. It’s a quick, low‑risk option that can cut down pain and get you back to the activities you love.