What is Shockwave Therapy?
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses focused or radial acoustic pressure waves to: - Reduce pain - Stimulate and accelerate healing - Break down calcific deposits
It’s commonly used for chronic tendon and soft‑tissue injuries and is ideal when symptoms haven’t responded to traditional conservative treatment.
ESWT is also approved within NICE Guidelines, supporting its safety and effectiveness for several musculoskeletal conditions.
Key benefits:
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Completely non-invasive (no needles, no anaesthetic)
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Sessions last 20–30 minutes
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Typical course: 3–5 sessions, spaced 1–2 weeks apart
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Can significantly reduce pain and enhance function.
Contraindications for shockwave therapy:
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ESWT is not suitable for individuals with:
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Pregnancy
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A pacemaker
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Blood-clotting disorders
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A steroid injection within the last 6 weeks
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Skin infections or open wounds at the treatment site
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What does the research say?
Clinical research supporting ESWT’s inclusion in the NICE guidelines shows significant improvements across several conditions, including:
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77% improvement in Tennis Elbow
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90% improvement in Plantar Fasciitis symptoms
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75% improvement in Achilles and Patellar Tendinopathy
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91% improvement in Calcific Tendinitis
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At Muscle Mender, i combine ESWT with tailored rehabilitation plans to maximise long‑term recovery.
SOME OF THE CONDITIONS I CAN HELP YOU WITH:
BACK PAIN & SCIATICA
SHOULDER & NECK PAIN
LEG, HIP & KNEE PAIN
MUSCLE & JOINT PAIN
Conditions Shockwave Therapy Can TreaT...
Shockwave therapy is supported by research for a number of chronic tendon and soft-tissue injuries, including:
Plantar Fasciitis (Heel Pain)
Highly effective for chronic cases, especially when rest, orthotics, and stretching haven’t helped.
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Achilles Tendinopathy
Useful for mid-portion Achilles issues and some insertional cases, particularly when combined with exercise rehab.
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Lateral Epicondylitis - (Tennis Elbow)
Shown to reduce pain and improve grip strength more effectively than some other conservative treatments.
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Calcific Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
Can reduce calcific deposits and restore mobility without the need for surgery.
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Patellar Tendinopathy & Other Tendon Injuries
Some cases show meaningful improvements, especially when integrated with strengthening programmes.
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Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (Shin Splints)
Shockwave therapy can help reduce pain and improve healing by targeting the irritated tissues along the shin, particularly in chronic or recurring cases. Some cases show meaningful improvements, especially when integrated with strengthening programmes.
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GREATER Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS)
Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS) is a condition that causes pain and tenderness on the outer side of the hip. It often occurs when the tendons and soft tissues around the greater trochanter—the bony point of the thigh bone—become irritated or inflamed. GTPS commonly develops from overuse, injury, or movement imbalances and can make activities like walking, running, or lying on the affected side uncomfortable.
HOW CAN SHOCKWAVE THERAPY HELP ME?
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WHAT IS SHOCKWAVE THERAPY AND DOES IT REALLY WORK?
Frequently asked questions about shockwave therapy
How long does each session last?
Shockwave sessions usually take around 20–30 minutes, depending on the area and condition being treated. Within this time, 2,500–5,000 shockwave impulses are delivered, which typically takes around 5–10 minutes as part of the full appointment.
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Is it painful?
You may feel a tapping sensation or brief discomfort during the treatment. Intensity is gradually increased based on your comfort, and most people tolerate the session very well.
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Can anyone undergo radial shockwave therapy?
Most people can safely receive radial shockwave therapy. However, it is not suitable for individuals who are pregnant, have certain blood disorders, take anticoagulant medication, have local infections, or have untreated malignancy in the treatment area. A full assessment will confirm suitability.
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Are there any side effects?
Side effects are usually mild and temporary. They may include slight bruising, swelling, redness, or mild discomfort in the treated area for 24–48 hours.
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How many sessions do I need?
Most clients require 3 sessions, spaced 1–2 weeks apart. Some conditions benefit from up to 5 sessions.
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When will I notice improvement?
Many clients start to notice pain reduction and better movement after just a few sessions, with the full benefits typically developing over 6–8 weeks after completing the treatment plan..
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what areas do you cover ?
I have clients that travel from Liverpool and Manchester however, i cover Chorley, Adlington, Preston, Blackburn, Accrington, Wigan, Standish & Burnley.
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