Get Back to Living Pain-Free with Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that delivers high-energy acoustic pulses to injured tissue. These pulses stimulate the body’s natural healing response — increasing blood flow, breaking down scar tissue, and accelerating cell repair without the need for surgery or medication.

Most patients feel a mild to moderate discomfort during treatment, often described as a tapping or pressure sensation over the treated area. The intensity is always adjusted to your comfort level. Any discomfort typically subsides within a few minutes of finishing the session.

Most patients see significant improvement within 3 sessions, which is why we offer a 3-session package as our best value option. Some chronic or complex conditions may require up to 5–6 sessions. Your physiotherapist will assess your response after each treatment and advise accordingly.

A standard shockwave session lasts approximately 30 minutes. Your first appointment as a new patient is 45 minutes, which includes a full assessment before treatment begins so we can tailor the therapy precisely to your condition.

Some patients notice reduced pain after their very first session, though for others it takes 2–3 treatments before improvements become clear. The healing process continues for several weeks after your final session as the tissue regenerates — so results often keep improving over 4–8 weeks.

No — shockwave therapy requires zero downtime. You can return to your normal daily activities immediately after each session. We do advise avoiding high-impact exercise for 24–48 hours post-treatment to allow the initial healing response to settle.

Yes. Shockwave therapy has been used clinically for over 30 years and is backed by a strong body of research. It is non-invasive, drug-free, and carries very low risk when performed by a trained physiotherapist. Mild redness or temporary soreness at the treatment site is normal and usually resolves within 24 hours.

Shockwave therapy is not recommended if you are pregnant, have a blood clotting disorder, are on anticoagulant medication, have an active infection or tumour in the treatment area, or have had a cortisone injection in the past 6 weeks. Your physiotherapist will screen you thoroughly before any treatment begins.

Absolutely. Shockwave therapy is often most beneficial for patients who haven’t responded to conventional treatments such as rest, physiotherapy exercises, or steroid injections. It offers a proven alternative pathway to recovery and is frequently recommended before considering surgery.

Shockwave therapy is highly effective for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, rotator cuff tendinopathy, calcific shoulder, patellar tendinopathy, hamstring tendinopathy, hip pain, and arthritis — among others.

No referral is needed. You can book directly online and be seen quickly. Our physiotherapists will carry out a full assessment at your first appointment to confirm shockwave therapy is appropriate for your specific condition and create a personalised treatment plan.

Steroid injections can provide short-term pain relief but don’t address the underlying tissue damage and can weaken tendons with repeated use. Shockwave therapy works differently — it actively promotes tissue regeneration and healing, offering longer-lasting results without the side effects associated with steroids.

Yes — shockwave therapy is widely used by professional and recreational athletes alike. It’s particularly effective for tendon injuries common in sport, such as patellar tendinopathy (jumper’s knee), Achilles tendinopathy, and hamstring issues. It allows many athletes to continue light training during their recovery period.

Wear comfortable, loose clothing that gives easy access to the treatment area. Avoid applying creams or oils to the skin beforehand. You don’t need to fast or make any other special preparations. Simply arrive a few minutes early and bring any relevant imaging (X-rays, MRI) if you have them — though this isn’t required.