What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave Therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic sound waves to stimulate a healing response within body tissue.
The handheld device delivers vibration-like impulses to the affected area, generated through air compression. This process increases blood flow and stimulates tissue at a cellular level, promoting improved tissue regeneration.
By reactivating a stalled healing process and producing an analgesic (pain-relieving) effect, Shockwave Therapy can help reduce pain for up to four weeks after treatment.
book an appointment
Who Can Benefit from Shockwave Therapy?
This form of treatment may be recommended for patients experiencing a range of conditions, including:
-
Knee Osteoarthritis
-
Back Pain
-
Achilles tendon pain
-
Plantar fasciitis (pain under the foot or heel)
-
Patellar tendinopathy (pain beneath the kneecap)
-
Iliotibial band syndrome (pain along the outside of the leg from hip to knee)
-
Medial tibial stress syndrome (shin splints)
-
Proximal hamstring tendinopathy
-
Gluteal tendinopathy
-
Shoulder pain, rotator cuff tendinopathy, impingement, or frozen shoulder
-
Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow)
-
Medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow)
Treatment options will be discussed during your initial assessment, based on specific tests for the area of pain or irritation.
Contraindications for Treatment
One of the key benefits of Shockwave Therapy is that, as a non-invasive treatment, there are very few reasons why it cannot be used. The International Society for Medical Shockwave Treatment identifies the following contraindications for radial shockwave therapy:
-
Malignant tumour in the treatment area
-
Pregnancy (only when treating areas surrounding the foetus)
Precautions will always be reviewed before treatment. These only prevent the use of Shockwave Therapy if the area corresponds to the injury site:
-
Infection in the surrounding area
-
Blood clotting disorders
-
Electronic implants
-
Local infection
-
Metal implants
-
Recent radiotherapy
-
Severely impaired circulation
Shockwave
Therapy
A probe is pressed on to the affected area and the shockwaves are delivered through the skin. The impulses are delivered through the skin as a shockwave that spreads inside the injured tissue as a radial sound wave. These radial shockwaves initiate an inflammation-like response in the injured tissue that is being treated, and prompts the body to respond naturally by increasing blood circulation which helps to restart the healing process.
The device will produce fast repetitive pulses over the effected area, which will feel like vigorous tapping. Typically, your first treatment will start with a low level of intensity and increase to a point where you feel comfortable. The aim is to stimulate the area, meaning a minor level of discomfort may be felt when receiving treatment, however this will be monitored by the therapist throughout application.
Evidence within research suggests that a minimum of three sessions must be completed in order to provide effective stimulation to the effected area with the optimum of six sessions. It is recommended that duration between treatment should not exceed 10 days to ensure the treatment effect is not lost between sessions.
book an appointment
Why Choose Physio-logical
At Physio-logical, we take the time to listen and understand your goals – whether that’s walking comfortably to the shops, running a marathon, getting back to your favourite sport, or playing with your grandchildren. We work with you to achieve the best possible outcome, combining hands-on treatment with personalised exercises rather than just providing a set number of sessions or generic exercise sheets.
discover more
Frequently Asked Questions
Our FAQs
What conditions do you treat at Physio-logical?
We treat a wide range of conditions including back and neck pain, sports injuries, joint problems, arthritis, post-surgery rehabilitation, and long-term pain or mobility issues.
How long are the appointments?
Initial physiotherapy and sports therapy assessments are 45 minutes, with follow-up sessions usually 30 minutes. We also offer sports massage appointments lasting 30, 45 or 60 minutes.
How many sessions will I need?
Everyone is different. Some people improve in just a few sessions, while others benefit from a longer treatment plan. We’ll always discuss this clearly after your first appointment.
Can I use my private medical insurance?
Yes, we work with most major private medical insurers. If you’re unsure, our team is happy to check this for you.
What should I wear?
Wear something comfortable that allows us to see and assess the area we’re treating. Sportswear or loose clothing works best.
Is there free parking at Physio-logical?
Yes, we have free, convenient on-site parking to make your visit easy
Why should I choose Physio-logical?
We offer immediate access to hands-on treatment, personalised rehabilitation, and a collaborative approach where we work closely with you to achieve your goals. Most importantly, we genuinely care about your recovery and long-term health.
Take a Virtual Tour
You can now take a virtual tour of our Stansted Park clinic, a great introduction to us and our services before you arrive!
Expert Care, Tailored to You
Schedule your appointment and take the first step towards feeling your best.