If you've been dealing with a stubborn tendon problem, a nagging heel pain, or an injury that just doesn't seem to want to shift - you may have heard shockwave therapy mentioned as an option. It's a treatment we're really proud to offer here at Physioflexx, and one that makes a genuine difference for a lot of our patients. But we know the name alone can sound a little daunting, so let us explain exactly what it is, what it involves, and whether it might be right for you.
So, what actually is shockwave therapy?
Despite the name, shockwave therapy has nothing to do with electric shocks - we promise! The word "shockwave" refers to a type of acoustic (sound) wave. In its simplest form, it's a high-energy sound pulse that travels through the body, deeper than most hands-on techniques can reach.
When applied to an injured area, these waves stimulate your body's own natural healing process. They increase blood flow, help break down the build-up of scar tissue and calcium deposits, and essentially wake up tissues that have become stuck in a cycle of chronic pain and poor healing. Think of it as giving the affected area a carefully targeted nudge - reminding your body that there's still work to be done there.
The treatment is delivered through a small handheld device that your physiotherapist applies directly to the skin over the injured area, usually with a little gel to help the waves travel through. Each session typically lasts around 15–20 minutes.
What conditions can shockwave therapy treat?
Shockwave is particularly effective for what we call tendinopathies - that's the clinical word for problems with tendons. Tendons are the tough, fibrous bands that connect your muscles to your bones, and they can become painful and slow to heal when overloaded or repeatedly strained.
Some of the most common conditions we treat with shockwave at Physioflexx include:
- Adolescent Osgood-Schlatter syndrome – pain below the kneecap in active teenagers
- Patellar tendinopathy – pain at the front of the knee, sometimes called "jumper's knee"
- Plantar fasciitis – sharp heel pain, especially with your first steps in the morning
- Rotator cuff tendinopathy – shoulder pain that limits movement and can disrupt sleep
- Tennis elbow – persistent pain on the outside of the elbow
- Achilles tendinopathy – pain and stiffness at the back of the ankle or lower calf
- Trochanteric bursitis – pain on the outer side of the hip, often worse when lying on that side at night
It can also be used alongside other physiotherapy techniques for a range of chronic musculoskeletal conditions. If you're unsure whether your particular problem is suitable, the best thing to do is have a chat with one of our team, we're always happy to advise.
Is it painful?
This is probably the question we get asked most often, and it's a fair one.
Most patients describe shockwave as feeling uncomfortable rather than painful - a bit like a firm, repetitive tapping or pressure sensation over the treated area. Some areas are naturally more sensitive than others, and the intensity of the treatment can always be adjusted to make sure it stays within a level that you're comfortable with. Your physiotherapist will check in with you throughout.
It's worth knowing that some patients experience a little soreness in the treated area for 24-48 hours after a session. This is a normal and expected response, it's your body reacting to the increased activity in the tissue. It usually settles quickly, and most people find it very manageable.
Is it safe?
Yes - shockwave therapy has a strong evidence base and has been used safely in physiotherapy and sports medicine settings for many years. It's a non-invasive treatment, meaning nothing enters the body, and it carries very few risks when applied by a trained clinician.
Like all treatments, there are some situations where shockwave isn't appropriate. We would not use it if you are pregnant, if you have a pacemaker, if you are taking blood-thinning medications, if you have an open wound or active skin infection over the area, or if you are under 18 (with the exception of a specific condition called Osgood-Schlatter disease). Your physiotherapist will always take a thorough history before recommending shockwave, to make sure it's both safe and suitable for you.
How many sessions will I need?
Every patient is different, and the number of sessions will depend on your specific condition, how long you've had it, and how your body responds to treatment.
As a general guide, most people benefit from a course of around 3-6 sessions, typically spaced one week apart. Some patients, particularly those with plantar fasciitis, notice a meaningful improvement after just a couple of sessions. Others with longer-standing or more complex conditions may take a little longer to respond.
We'll always discuss what to expect before we begin and reassess as we go, so you're never in the dark about your progress.
How does shockwave fit in with the rest of my physiotherapy?
Shockwave works best as part of a wider treatment plan, not on its own. At Physioflexx, we combine it with manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue release and joint mobilisation, as well as a tailored exercise programme to build strength and resilience in the affected area.
This is really important - the shockwave helps to kick-start healing and reduce pain, but the exercises and rehabilitation work you do alongside it are what keeps the problem from coming back. Our physiotherapists will guide you through this every step of the way.
Could shockwave therapy help me?
If you've been managing a persistent tendon problem or a chronic musculoskeletal condition and feel like you've hit a bit of a wall with your recovery, shockwave could be well worth exploring. It's one of the most effective tools we have for conditions that have been resistant to other treatments, and we see really encouraging results with it here at the clinic.
The best first step is simply to get in touch. We'll have a thorough assessment, talk through your options honestly, and put together a plan that's right for you, not just a one-size-fits-all approach.
To find out more or to book an appointment, you can book online here or give us a call at our Stewarton clinic on 01560 483200, or our Prestwick clinic on 01292 478828. We'd love to help.
