Chronic tendon pain can disrupt your daily life, making even simple movements like walking, gripping, or lifting painful. Traditional treatments like rest, medications, or physical therapy often provide only temporary relief, leaving many patients frustrated. Fortunately, Shockwave Therapy (Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy – ESWT) has emerged as a game-changing, non-invasive treatment that stimulates the body’s natural healing process, offering long-term recovery for persistent tendon injuries.
How Shockwave Therapy Works
Shockwave therapy uses high-energy acoustic waves to penetrate deep into injured tissues, triggering a biological response that promotes healing. These sound waves increase blood circulation, accelerate collagen production, and break down scar tissue and calcifications that contribute to pain and stiffness. Unlike steroid injections, which only mask symptoms, shockwave therapy addresses the root cause of tendon damage, encouraging true tissue regeneration. The treatment is quick (typically 10-15 minutes per session), requires no anesthesia, and allows patients to return to light activity immediately.
Conditions Effectively Treated with Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy has shown remarkable success in treating chronic tendon disorders, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis – A leading cause of heel pain, especially among runners and those who stand for long hours. Studies show an 80% success rate, with most patients experiencing significant pain reduction after 3-5 sessions.
- Achilles Tendinopathy – Degenerative changes in the Achilles tendon can lead to persistent pain and stiffness. Shockwave therapy helps rebuild tendon strength without the risks associated with steroid injections.
- Tennis & Golfer’s Elbow – Repetitive strain injuries that cause forearm tendon damage respond well to shockwave treatment, restoring grip strength and function.
- Rotator Cuff Tendinitis & Calcific Tendinopathy – Shockwaves dissolve calcium deposits in the shoulder and reduce inflammation, improving mobility without surgery.
- Patellar Tendinopathy (Jumper’s Knee) – Common in athletes, this condition benefits from shockwave therapy’s ability to stimulate tendon repair.
What to Expect During Treatment
Before beginning shockwave therapy, a diagnostic ultrasound is often performed to confirm the extent of tendon damage. During the procedure, a handheld device delivers controlled pulses of energy directly to the injured area. Patients may feel a deep, rhythmic tapping sensation, but the discomfort is usually mild and short-lived. No incisions or needles are involved, and there’s no downtime—most people resume light activities the same day.
A typical treatment plan consists of 3-5 sessions, spaced about a week apart. While some patients notice improvement after the first session, the full effects develop gradually over 4-8 weeks as the tendon heals. Maximum results are usually seen at the 3-month mark, with many patients experiencing lasting relief.
Why Choose Shockwave Therapy Over Other Treatments?
While steroid injections and surgery have their place, shockwave therapy offers unique advantages:
- Non-invasive – No needles, incisions, or anesthesia required.
- No weakening of tendons – Unlike steroids, which can degrade tissue over time, shockwaves strengthen tendons.
- Long-lasting results – Addresses the underlying cause rather than just masking pain.
- Minimal side effects – Some temporary soreness or redness may occur, but serious complications are rare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is shockwave therapy painful?
A: Most patients describe it as a deep pulsing sensation—uncomfortable but tolerable. The intensity can be adjusted for comfort.
Q: How soon will I feel better?
A: Some improvement may be noticed after 1-2 sessions, but full healing takes time as the tendon regenerates.
Q: Can shockwave therapy be combined with other treatments?
A: Yes! It pairs well with PRP therapy, physical therapy, or ultrasound-guided injections for enhanced recovery.
Q: Who is a good candidate?
A: Ideal for those with chronic tendon pain (3+ months) that hasn’t responded to rest, PT, or medications.