Shock Wave Information:

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Radial shockwave therapy (also called radial pressure wave therapy or radial ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment we use in the clinic for certain musculoskeletal (muscle, tendon, and soft tissue) problems.
It's not an electric shock—it's actually high-energy sound waves (acoustic pressure waves) delivered through a handheld device placed on your skin. Our machine penetrates 2.75" (7cm) deep.

What it feels like and how we do it:

We apply a special gel to your skin for better transmission, then press the applicator against the painful area. The machine generates pressure waves that spread out (like ripples) from the point of contact. You'll typically feel a strong tapping or pulsing sensation—sometimes uncomfortable or mildly painful during the session—but most people tolerate it well. Sessions usually last 5–15 minutes, and we do a series of 3–6 treatments, often spaced about a week apart.

How it helps healing:

These waves create mechanical stress in the tissue, which "wakes up" your body's natural repair processes (a bit like reminding a stalled healing process to restart). Key effects include:

Increasing blood flow and promoting new blood vessel growth (neovascularization) in areas that have poor circulation. Stimulating cells (like tenocytes in tendons) to produce more collagen and repair tissue.
Releasing growth factors and biochemical signals that reduce chronic inflammation and encourage tissue regeneration.
Creating tiny controlled "micro-traumas" that trigger a fresh healing response, especially useful when old injuries have stopped improving.
Helping break down scar tissue or calcifications in some cases.
It's particularly good for chronic conditions where healing has plateaued.

What conditions it commonly helps (what it "heals")
Radial shockwave is most often used for soft-tissue overuse injuries and tendinopathies.

Common examples include:

Plantar fasciitis (heel pain / heel spur syndrome)
Achilles tendinopathy
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis)
Patellar tendinopathy ("jumper's knee")
Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (side hip pain / bursitis)
Rotator cuff tendinopathy or calcific tendonitis in the shoulder (in some cases)
Other chronic tendon or fascia issues

Many patients see reduced pain and improved function, often noticeably after 3–6 weeks as healing progresses. Results vary—it's not a guarantee—but evidence supports it as effective for these stubborn conditions when other treatments (rest, Physiotherapy, injections, etc.) haven't fully worked.

Are there any contraindications or reasons we wouldn't use it?
Yes, safety is important. We avoid radial shockwave (or use extreme caution) in these situations:

Pregnancy (especially over the abdomen/pelvis)
Active cancer or tumors in the treatment area
Infection or open wounds at the site
Blood clotting disorders or if you're taking strong blood thinners (anticoagulants)
Nerve or major blood vessel directly in the treatment path
Recent corticosteroid injection into the area (usually wait 4–6 weeks)
Growth plates in children/adolescents (epiphyseal plates)
Severe acute inflammation or fracture in the area
Implanted devices like pacemakers (in some cases, depending on location)
Lungs/chest wall, brain, eyes, or major nerves (never treat over these)

Side effects are usually mild: temporary redness, swelling, bruising, soreness for 1–2 days (like after a hard workout), or brief increase in pain. Serious complications are rare.
If this sounds like it might help your situation, we can discuss whether it's appropriate for you after examining you and reviewing your history. It's often combined with stretching, strengthening exercises, and other therapies for the best outcome.