When persistent pain affects daily life, shockwave may offer another path forward.

Shockwave Therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy or ESWT, is a non invasive treatment that uses acoustic pressure waves to stimulate healing in injured tendons, ligaments and muscles. It promotes circulation, reduces pain signalling and helps remodel unhealthy tissue without injections or surgery.

Common treatment areas include plantar fasciitis and heel pain, Achilles tendinopathy, tennis and golfer’s elbow, patellar tendinopathy, rotator cuff and calcific shoulder pain, hip and gluteal tendinopathy, and selected chronic muscle strains or trigger points. An assessment helps determine whether your specific condition is a good fit.

A handheld device delivers controlled pressure waves to the injured area. These waves stimulate circulation and cell activity, support tissue remodelling and may help reduce pain signalling. The settings and treatment head are adjusted for the tissue being treated and your comfort.

Most people describe the sensation as firm tapping, pressure or deep pulsing. Tender areas may feel more intense, but the clinician can adjust the intensity throughout treatment. Temporary soreness can occur and usually fades within 24 to 48 hours.

Many treatment plans involve 3 to 6 sessions spaced about 5 to 10 days apart. Some people notice improvement after the first few visits, while others improve gradually over several weeks. Your plan and response may differ.

Treatment typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. Most people can return to normal daily activities right away, although we may recommend temporarily modifying heavy loading of the treated area.

Shockwave Therapy is non invasive and is generally considered safe when provided by a trained clinician after an appropriate assessment. It does not require anesthesia or medication.

Possible side effects are usually mild and temporary. They can include redness, swelling, bruising, tenderness or soreness around the treatment area.

Shockwave is not used over open wounds, active infections, suspected fractures or tumours. Pregnancy, bleeding disorders, reduced sensation, blood thinning medication and implanted devices near the treatment area require individual review. Your clinician will complete a safety screen before treatment.

Usually yes, with appropriate modifications. Light activity is often encouraged, while heavy or painful loading of the treated area may need to be adjusted for 24 to 48 hours. We will guide you on suitable progressions.

Shockwave Therapy provided as part of chiropractic care may be eligible for coverage when your plan includes chiropractic benefits. Coverage varies, so check your individual policy. We offer direct billing for many plans.

Research supports shockwave as an effective option for several persistent tendon and heel conditions. Results vary by diagnosis, how long the problem has been present and the treatment plan. Outcomes are often strongest when shockwave is combined with progressive exercise and thoughtful load management.

Improvements in tendon related conditions can be durable when treatment is supported by targeted strengthening and appropriate load management. We will help you build a plan designed to reduce the chance of recurrence.

Wear clothing that allows easy access to the treatment area, such as shorts for the knee or Achilles and a tank top for the shoulder. Bring any relevant imaging or reports if you have them.

No referral is required to book a Shockwave Therapy assessment. Some extended health plans may have their own reimbursement requirements, so it is worth checking your policy.