Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) | mysitehttps://www.impacthealthphysio.com/extracorporeal-shockwave-therapy-eswt

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)

What is Shockwave Therapy?

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is an evidence-based treatment that uses controlled acoustic waves to stimulate healing in chronic tendon and soft-tissue conditions. It is particularly effective when reduced pain and increased function have not been achieved.

Who is Shockwave Therapy for?

Shockwave therapy may be suitable if you have:

✔ Ongoing pain lasting more than 12 weeks

✔ Tendon or soft-tissue pain limiting daily activities, hobbies or sport

✔ A condition that hasn’t fully responded to standard treatment

Shockwave therapy works by:

Stimulating tissue repair
Improving blood flow
Reducing pain sensitivity
Encouraging healthy tendon remodelling

Conditions Commonly Treated:

Plantar Fasciitis / Heel Pain
Achilles Tendinopathy
Patellar Tendinopathy (Jumper’s Knee)
Tennis or Golfer’s Elbow
Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy
Calcific Shoulder / Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
IT Band Syndrome

What Does Treatment Involve

2. Course of Shockwave Therapy

Typically, 4–6 sessions, once per week
Each session lasts approx 30 minutes (shockwave lasts approx 3-5 mins)
Mild discomfort can happen during treatment (kept within tolerance)

1. Initial Assessment

Full physiotherapy assessment
Diagnosis and treatment planning
Explanation of shockwave therapy
First treatment where appropriate

3. Rehabilitation & Recovery

Progressive exercise programme
Load management advice
Regular reassessment of pain and function

Shockwave therapy is most effective when combined with exercise-based rehabilitation.

What Does It Feel Like?

A strong tapping or pulsing sensation
There can be some discomfort during treatment (kept within tolerance)
Mild soreness afterwards can happen like with any treatment and usually settles within 12–48 hours

Most people can continue normal daily activities during treatment.

Contraindications

Treatments must not be performed across any of the surface area of the lungs or in areas where the shockwave would be directed towards the lungs. This includes the:

Pregnancy
Heart issues or pacemaker
Apex of lung (under the upper fibres of trapezius)
Cancer
You have metal pins, plates or prosthesis in the area requiring treatment
Thoracic Spine / Sternum

Pectorals / Chest
Eyes
Head and neck
Anticoagulants
Infected tissue
Corticosteroids (advised to wait month post injection)

Why Choose Impact Health Physio?

✔ Chartered & experienced Physiotherapists

✔ Evidence-based, ethical treatment plans

✔ Shockwave delivered as part of a structured rehab programme

✔ Individualised care — not “one-size-fits-all”

We focus on long-term recovery, not just short-term pain relief.

Important Information

Shockwave therapy is not suitable for everyone
An assessment is required before treatment
Results vary depending on condition, duration, and rehab compliance
Shockwave is not a stand-alone cure — exercise is key

Don’t let stubborn tendon pain control your life — book your physiotherapy appointment today