Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy may be beneficial for individuals with persistent tendon pain or chronic musculoskeletal conditions that have not improved with exercise, activity modification, or other conservative treatments. Your physiotherapist will complete a thorough assessment to determine whether shockwave therapy is appropriate as part of your treatment plan.

Your physiotherapist will assess your condition and identify the area requiring treatment. A handheld device is placed against the skin with some ultrasound gel and delivers a series of acoustic pulses to the affected tissue. Treatment typically lasts 5–10 minutes and is often combined with a progressive exercise program and education to achieve the best results.

Some discomfort during treatment is expected, particularly over sensitive or chronically injured tissues, but the intensity can be adjusted to your comfort level.

The machine does make some noise, which is generally tolerated well.

Shockwave therapy works by stimulating the body’s natural healing processes, which means improvements often occur gradually rather than immediately. Some individuals may notice a reduction in pain within the first few treatments, while for others, meaningful changes may take several weeks to develop.

It is common for symptoms to temporarily increase or feel more sensitive for a short period after treatment before improvement occurs. Most treatment plans involve a series of sessions (normally 3-5) spaced over several weeks, with continued progress often seen in the weeks following the final session.

Timelines for pain relief and functional improvement can vary depending on factors such as the type and severity of the condition, how long symptoms have been present, overall health, and adherence to the recommended exercise program. Your physiotherapist will monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed to support optimal recovery.

For individuals being treated for rotator cuff calcifications, it can take up to 6 mths post treatment for resolution of symptoms (however, the shoulder should start feeling better before that).

Shockwave therapy may not be recommended if you:

• Are pregnant• Have a bleeding disorder or are taking certain blood-thinning medications• Have an active infection or open wound in the treatment area• Have a known bone tumour or cancer in the treatment area• Have a recent fracture or are still healing from certain bone injuries• Are receiving treatment over a growth plate in children or adolescents• Have other medical conditions where shockwave therapy is not appropriate• If you’ve had a cortisone injection less than 6 weeks from the start of your shockwave treatment

Most people tolerate shockwave therapy well. It is common to experience temporary discomfort during treatment, as well as mild soreness, redness, bruising, or swelling in the treated area for 24–72 hours afterward. Serious complications are uncommon.

It's not advised to apply cold or ice or take NSAIDs while undergoing shockwave therapy as the treatment is trying to increase inflammation in your tissue to encourage healing.  I you apply cold or take anti-inflammatories, you would be reversing that treatment result.  If you are having pain post treatment, you may discuss using Tylenol with your pharmacist or doctor.  Physiotherapists can not prescribe medications.  

Sure! Potential benefits include reduced pain, improved tendon healing, enhanced function, increased mobility, and a faster return to work, sport, and daily activities. Results vary depending on the condition being treated, but shockwave therapy is often most effective when combined with a structured rehabilitation and exercise program.