SHOCKWAVE THERAPY

Shockwave Therapy is an evidence-based, non-invasive treatment used in physiotherapy to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes and reduce pain. At Total Physiocare, we utilise this technology to help patients recover from musculoskeletal conditions, chronic conditions, and long-standing pain that hasn’t responded to other treatments.

What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave Therapy delivers targeted acoustic waves through the skin into injured tissues. These high-energy pulses increase blood flow, stimulate cell regeneration, and help break down scar tissue and calcifications.

This results in:

  • Reduced pain

  • Accelerated recovery

  • Improved mobility

  • Stronger, healthier tissue

Shockwave Therapy is non-surgical, safe, and highly effective for a range of musculoskeletal conditions.

How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?

Shockwaves create a mechanical stimulus that triggers a series of biological responses, including:

  • Pain Reduction: Shockwaves inhibit pain receptors and stimulate the release of natural analgesic substances, reducing discomfort during and after treatment.

  • Increased Blood Flow: The therapy promotes new blood vessel formation, improving oxygen and nutrient delivery to damaged tissues.

  • Tissue Regeneration: Shockwaves activate cells responsible for healing—supporting the repair of tendons, ligaments, and muscles.

  • Breakup of Calcifications: Helps dissolve calcium deposits often found in chronic tendon injuries.

Common Conditions Treated with Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave Therapy is especially effective for chronic, stubborn, or recurring conditions, including:

  • Plantar fasciitis

  • Achilles tendinopathy

  • Patella tendinopathy

  • Tennis elbow

  • Golfer’s elbow

  • Rotator cuff tendinopathy

  • Trochanteric Bursitis / Gluteal tendinopathy

  • Hamstring tendinopathy

  • Shin splints

  • Trigger points and muscle tension

  • Chronic tendon irritation or degeneration

If your injury isn’t listed, our Physiotherapists can assess whether Shockwave is appropriate for your condition.

What to Expect During Your Appointment

Shockwave Therapy sessions typically last 10–15 minutes and are performed as part of a broader physiotherapy treatment plan.

During your session:

  • Your Physiotherapist will locate the area of pain

  • Gel is applied to ensure effective transmission of shockwaves

  • A handheld device is used to deliver acoustic pulses to the injured tissue

You may feel mild discomfort during the treatment—this is normal and usually reduces as healing begins. There is no downtime, and you can return to normal activities immediately after treatment.

Benefits of Shockwave Therapy

  • Non-invasive

  • No medication or injections

  • Accelerated healing

  • Effective for chronic or persistent conditions

  • Breaks the cycle of pain and inflammation

  • Helps reduce reliance on long-term pain management

Many patients experience noticeable improvement after 3–5 sessions.

Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You?

Shockwave Therapy is suitable for individuals dealing with long-standing tendon injuries, chronic pain, or conditions that have not improved with standard Physiotherapy alone.

Your Physiotherapist will conduct a thorough assessment to determine the best treatment plan for your needs.