Pain that lingers can be frustrating, especially when it keeps you from walking comfortably, exercising, working, or enjoying the activities you love. For some muscle, tendon, and soft tissue conditions, recovery can take time and may require more than rest or stretching alone.
That is where shockwave therapy may be helpful.
Shockwave therapy, also known as radial pressure wave therapy or extracorporeal shockwave therapy, is a non-invasive treatment that uses targeted acoustic pressure waves applied to a specific area of the body. In physical therapy, it is commonly used as an add-on treatment for certain musculoskeletal conditions, especially chronic tendon and soft tissue issues.
How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?
During shockwave therapy, a handheld device is placed over the treatment area. The device delivers controlled pressure waves into the tissue. These waves are designed to stimulate the targeted area and help support the body’s natural healing response.
The treatment does not involve surgery, injections, or medication. Most sessions are relatively quick, and the intensity can usually be adjusted based on your comfort level and treatment goals.
At Pritchette Physical Therapy, shockwave therapy may be used alongside your regular physical therapy plan, which may include exercise, mobility work, strengthening, hands-on care, and education.
What Conditions May Shockwave Therapy Help?
Shockwave therapy is often used for stubborn soft tissue and tendon-related problems. It may be considered for conditions such as:
Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
Achilles tendon irritation
Tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow
Rotator cuff-related shoulder pain
Hip, knee, or lower leg soft tissue pain
Muscle tightness or trigger point-related discomfort
Chronic tendon irritation
Soft tissue restrictions that are limiting progress
Cleveland Clinic Canada describes shockwave therapy as a treatment used for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, especially chronic conditions affecting tendons and their attachment points, including plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy.
What Are the Potential Benefits?
Shockwave therapy may help support:
Improved local circulation
Tissue mobility
Soft tissue recovery
Reduced muscle tension
Improved tolerance to movement and exercise
Progress toward functional goals
It is important to understand that shockwave therapy is not a stand-alone cure. It is best viewed as a tool that may help support your overall recovery when combined with a personalized physical therapy plan.
What Does Treatment Feel Like?
Most patients describe shockwave therapy as a tapping, pulsing, or pressure-like sensation over the treatment area. Some areas may feel more sensitive than others, especially if the tissue is already irritated.
Your therapist can adjust the intensity during the session to keep the treatment tolerable. Mild soreness may occur afterward, similar to how you might feel after a deep tissue massage or a focused therapy session.
Is Shockwave Therapy Right for Everyone?
Shockwave therapy may be helpful for some patients, but it is not appropriate for everyone. Your therapist will consider your symptoms, medical history, diagnosis, stage of healing, and overall treatment goals before recommending it.
It may be a good option to discuss if you have a stubborn tendon, muscle, or soft tissue issue that has not fully responded to traditional conservative care.
Shockwave Therapy at Pritchette Physical Therapy
Pritchette Physical Therapy offers shockwave therapy as an add-on service to physical therapy care. This treatment is designed to support patients dealing with muscle, tendon, and soft tissue pain that may be limiting movement, activity, or progress.
Shockwave therapy is not reimbursed by insurance plans, so our team can review whether it makes sense for your condition and your goals before adding it to your care plan.
Ready to Learn More?
If you are dealing with persistent heel pain, tendon irritation, muscle tightness, or soft tissue discomfort, ask your therapist if shockwave therapy may be right for you.