If you have an injury that keeps flaring up or pain that has hung around far longer than you expected, shockwave therapy may help. It is often used for stubborn problems such as tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow have not responded to rest, exercise or hands-on treatment.
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Despite the name, shockwave therapy does not involve electric shocks. It uses high-energy sound waves, delivered through the skin to the affected area, to encourage your body's own healing response.
It works in a variety of ways: increasing blood flow to the area, prompting damaged tissue to repair, easing inflammation, reducing pain, and helping to break down scar tissue or the calcium build-up (calcification) that can keep a problem going.
As the area recovers, pain eases, and movement and function improve. Because it works with your body's natural healing rather than masking the pain, results tend to build gradually rather than overnight.
Shockwave therapy is a well-established treatment. It has been assessed by NICE, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, which considers it a safe option for conditions such as plantar fasciitis and calcific tendinopathy in the shoulder.
How Can Shockwave Therapy Help?
Shockwave is a highly effective treatment for long-standing soft tissue and tendon problems, particularly those that have not improved with rest or the usual advice to "just leave it alone".
You might consider shockwave therapy if you are dealing with:
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Plantar fasciitis or other persistent heel pain
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Rotator cuff and other shoulder tendon problems
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Calcific tendinopathy, where calcium builds up in a tendon
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Tennis elbow or golfer's elbow
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Shin splints
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Achilles tendon pain
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Knee pain linked to the patellar tendon
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Sports injuries that have been slow to settle
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Other long-standing tendon or musculoskeletal pain
It is not the right answer for every injury. If we do not think shockwave will help you, we will say so and help you find the right next step.
Shockwave Treatment: What To Expect
Most sessions last around 15 to 30 minutes. We apply a gel to the skin over the area being treated, then move the therapy head over it in a circular motion to deliver the shockwaves. We will explain what we are doing as we go, and you can ask us to ease off or stop at any point.
Many people feel a mild tingling or a sensation of pressure or tapping during treatment. Afterwards, some short-term soreness, redness, or bruising is normal and usually settles on its own, much like the ache after unfamiliar exercise.
You will probably need a course of 3 to 6 sessions for optimal results. We will give you a clearer idea once we have seen how you respond.
Your treatment will be carried out by one of our practitioners: osteopath Ben Palmer, chiropractor Ben Crump, or sports massage specialist Emily Chillingworth.
Pricing
We aim to keep our pricing simple and transparent. If you are not sure which treatment is right for you, just get in touch and we will help you choose.
Osteopathy, Chiropractic, Sports Injury and Rehabilitation
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Consultation and assessment: £30
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Treatments: £40 to £50 (care plans available)
Massage Therapies
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£45 to £70, depending on the type and length of massage
Got a question about costs or appointments? Contact us for more information and we’ll be happy to help.
Shockwave Therapy
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£50 per session, whether you book it on its own or add it to an osteopathy or chiropractic appointment
A Note on Comfort and Safety
You stay in control. We will talk you through what we are doing and why, and you can ask us to adjust the intensity or pause at any time.
Most people tolerate shockwave therapy well. As mentioned, a bit of soreness, redness, or bruising afterwards is normal and usually clears within a day or two, similar to the feeling after a hard workout.
Shockwave is not suitable for everyone. Before we start, we take a detailed case history and check the area to make sure it is the right choice for you. If there is any reason to avoid it, or to take a different route, we will tell you plainly.
FAQs About Shockwave Therapy
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
Not usually, but you will likely feel it. Most people notice a mild tingling or pressure while the therapy head is working. We adjust the intensity to keep it within your comfort level, so it does its job without becoming something you have to brace against.
How many sessions will I need?
Usually a course of around 3 to 6. The exact number depends on your problem and how well you respond, and we will give you a realistic idea once we have assessed you.
When will I notice a difference?
Shockwave prompts a gradual healing response, so most people feel the benefit build over the weeks after their sessions rather than on the day. We will talk through what is realistic for your situation.
What should I do after a session?
Carry on with a normal, gentle day. We may suggest easing off heavy or high-impact activity for a short time so the area can settle, and we will be specific about what that means for you before you leave. Keep following any advice your GP has given you, particularly around medication, just let us know if there is anything we should be aware of.
Is shockwave therapy safe?
Yes, when it is the right treatment for you. That is why we check your history and examine the area before starting. If it is not appropriate, we will explain why and suggest a more appropriate option.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You can book directly and do not need to see your GP first. If there is anything in your history or symptoms that needs medical investigation, we will tell you. With your permission, we can also share information with your GP or another health professional if it would be helpful.