Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is one of the treatment approaches that may be used in physiotherapy in selected cases. It is more commonly considered in some longer-standing symptoms related to tendon or fascia involvement, especially when pressure, loading, or certain activities bring on the symptoms more clearly. These patterns may be seen in some foot, Achilles, or shoulder presentations, but suitability still depends on assessment of symptom location, presentation, and activity needs.
When may shockwave therapy be considered?
- Certain areas become more painful with pressure or loading
- Walking, running, jumping, lifting the arm, or other activities bring on symptoms more easily
- Symptoms have been present for some time and still recur with specific movements
- The symptoms are already affecting day-to-day function or activity tolerance
- The presentation appears more related to tendon, fascia, or other loading-sensitive structures
What is usually assessed first?
Assessment usually looks at where the symptoms are, how long they have been present, which activities provoke them most clearly, and how the area responds to pressure, loading, or movement. Where appropriate, walking, running, arm use, or other functional tasks may also be assessed to help decide whether the presentation fits a pattern in which shockwave therapy is more commonly considered.
How is shockwave therapy usually used?
When it is considered appropriate after assessment, shockwave therapy is used according to the symptom presentation and the affected area, with a focus on symptoms that are more clearly provoked by pressure, loading, or activity. The physiotherapist may then add activity advice, load adjustment, or exercise therapy where needed, so that improvement can gradually carry over into daily activity. This stays closer to current guidance than describing shockwave as a one-size-fits-all treatment.
You may also read
Plantar Fasciitis
Achilles Tendinopathy
Shoulder Pain
Not sure how your current condition should be managed?
You may first arrange a physiotherapy assessment to understand the more suitable management approach according to your symptoms, activity needs, and rehabilitation goals.