What shockwave therapy is, the conditions it may be used for and why it works best as part of a wider rehabilitation plan.
What is shockwave therapy?
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy uses acoustic energy delivered through the skin to stimulate a biological response in targeted tissue. It is non-invasive and is commonly used in selected persistent tendon and heel-pain presentations.
Where it may be used
Depending on diagnosis and clinical suitability, shockwave may be considered for conditions such as plantar heel pain and some tendinopathies. It is not appropriate for every pain problem, so assessment comes first.
It is not a stand-alone cure
The best outcomes usually come from combining treatment with load management, progressive strengthening, footwear advice and biomechanical intervention when relevant.
What treatment feels like
Patients usually feel repeated tapping or pressure over the target area. Intensity is adjusted to tolerance and a course of sessions may be recommended depending on the condition.