Shockwave Therapy

💥 What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave Therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate healing, reduce pain, and improve function in injured tissues. Originally developed for breaking down kidney stones, this technology has been adapted to effectively treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, especially chronic tendon and soft tissue injuries.

🔍 How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?

During treatment, a specialized device generates focused sound waves (shockwaves) that are directed at the injured area. These waves penetrate deep into the tissue and trigger several biological responses, including:
  • Increased blood flow and circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients essential for healing
  • Stimulation of collagen production, which strengthens damaged tendons, ligaments, and fascia
  • Breakdown of calcium deposits and scar tissue, which can reduce pain and restore mobility
  • Activation of the body’s natural repair mechanisms, accelerating tissue regeneration
  • Reduction of inflammation and pain signaling through nerve desensitization

🎯 What Conditions Can Shockwave Therapy Treat?

Shockwave Therapy is effective for many chronic and acute conditions, including:
  • Plantar fasciitis and heel spurs
  • Achilles tendinitis
  • Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
  • Calcific shoulder tendonitis
  • Patellar tendinopathy (jumper’s knee)
  • Chronic muscle tightness and trigger points
  • Delayed or non-healing fractures
  • Soft tissue injuries and myofascial pain syndrome

👩‍⚕️ Who Can Benefit from Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave Therapy is ideal for patients who:
  • Experience persistent pain that has not responded well to traditional treatments
  • Want to avoid surgery or injections
  • Are athletes or active individuals looking for faster recovery
  • Suffer from chronic tendon or joint issues
  • Need a treatment that promotes natural healing without medication

🛋️ What Happens During a Shockwave Therapy Session?

  • Your therapist applies a gel to the skin over the affected area to ensure efficient wave transmission
  • The shockwave device is placed against the skin and delivers pulses of acoustic waves
  • Each session typically lasts 15 to 20 minutes
  • You may feel mild discomfort or a tapping sensation during treatment, but it is usually well tolerated
  • Multiple sessions (usually 3–6) are recommended for best results
  • There is minimal to no downtime; you can resume normal activities soon after

✅ Is Shockwave Therapy Safe?

Yes. Shockwave Therapy is FDA-cleared and considered safe when administered by trained healthcare professionals. Side effects are generally mild and temporary, such as minor redness, swelling, or bruising at the treatment site.

🌟 Why Choose Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave Therapy offers several advantages:
  • Non-invasive alternative to surgery
  • Drug-free pain relief with minimal side effects
  • Promotes natural healing and tissue regeneration
  • Effective for chronic conditions resistant to other treatments
  • Quick sessions with minimal disruption to daily life

Ready to Heal Faster and Feel Better?

Take the first step toward healing with Physiotherapy. 

📞 Call us at: 905-206-5599

📍 Visit: Bolton Location: 55 Queen Street North, BOLTON ON L7E 1C1 

📞 Call us at Ph: 905-752-7717

📍 Visit : Mississauga Location: Unit 18A – 2325 Hurontario Street, MISSISSAUGA ON L5A 4C7

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave Therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), uses high-energy acoustic waves to promote healing and regeneration in damaged tissues. It is especially effective for chronic pain that hasn’t responded to other treatments.

What conditions can Shockwave Therapy treat?
Shockwave is commonly used to treat:
  • Plantar fasciitis & heel spurs
  • Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
  • Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis)
  • Achilles tendinopathy
  • Shoulder tendonitis or calcific tendinitis
  • Hip pain
  • Patellar tendinitis (“jumper’s knee”)
  • Chronic muscle tension or trigger points
How does it work?
Shockwaves trigger the body’s natural healing response by:
  • Increasing blood flow to the area
  • Stimulating collagen production
  • Breaking down scar tissue and calcifications
  • Reducing inflammation and pain
Over time, this leads to improved tissue repair and mobility.
Is Shockwave Therapy painful?

Some patients experience mild discomfort during treatment, which is usually well tolerated. The level of intensity can be adjusted to suit your comfort level. Any post-treatment soreness typically resolves within 24–48 hours.

How many treatments will I need?

Most patients benefit from 3 to 6 sessions, typically spaced one week apart. The exact number depends on the condition being treated and your body’s response to therapy.

How long does each session take?

Each treatment lasts about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the area being treated. No downtime is required, and you can return to most activities immediately after your session.

When will I start to feel results?

Some patients notice improvement after just 1–2 sessions, but the most significant results typically occur several weeks after completing the treatment series, as the body continues to heal.

Is Shockwave Therapy safe?

Yes. Shockwave Therapy is FDA-cleared and backed by numerous clinical studies. It is a non-invasive, drug-freetreatment with a strong safety profile when administered by a trained provider.

Who should avoid Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave may not be suitable if you:
  • Are pregnant
  • Have a blood clotting disorder or are taking blood thinners
  • Have a pacemaker or metal implant in the treatment area
  • Have a tumor or active infection in the area
Your provider will review your medical history to ensure treatment is safe for you.
How is Shockwave different from other treatments?

Unlike injections or surgery, Shockwave Therapy stimulates natural healing without breaking the skin or requiring downtime. It targets the root cause of chronic pain, not just the symptoms.