Shockwave Therapy
Persistent heel, elbow, or tendon pain can make everyday activities frustrating. Shockwave therapy offers a non-invasive treatment option that may help reduce pain and support recovery.
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy uses a handheld device to deliver mechanical pressure waves through the skin to the affected tissue. These waves may help stimulate the body’s healing response and reduce pain sensitivity without surgery or injections.
At Hand & Ortho, we typically use shockwave therapy alongside physical therapy, including targeted exercises and guidance to help you return to your daily activities.
What Can It Help Treat?
Your physical therapist may recommend shockwave therapy for conditions such as:
- Plantar fasciitis and persistent heel pain
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow
- Patellar tendinopathy, sometimes called jumper’s knee
- Certain hamstring and gluteal tendon problems
Your therapist will evaluate your symptoms to determine whether this treatment is appropriate for you.
What Does Treatment Feel Like?
Your therapist will apply gel to your skin and move a handheld applicator over the treatment area. You’ll hear a repetitive tapping sound and may feel pressure or discomfort. Your therapist can adjust the intensity based on your comfort.
Some people notice early pain relief, while others improve gradually over the course of treatment. Temporary soreness, redness, swelling, or bruising may occur.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
We typically recommend 4–8 treatments, depending on your condition and how you respond. Your therapist will discuss your treatment plan and monitor your progress along the way.
Is Shockwave Therapy Right for Me?
Shockwave therapy is not appropriate for everyone. Before treatment, your therapist will review your medical history, medications, and symptoms and discuss potential benefits and risks.
We generally offer shockwave as part of a physical therapy plan. If you’re interested in shockwave therapy alone, we can evaluate whether standalone treatment is appropriate.
Contact us to schedule an evaluation and learn whether shockwave therapy could be part of your recovery.