Shockwave (ESWT) is a noninvasive and nonsurgical treatment. In practice, it can sometimes be uncomfortable but also can feel strangely good, as it can feel like it’s getting that deep spot that you haven’t been able to massage. A single round of shockwave is usually 2000 shocks (over the space of a couple of minutes) and the area tends to go a little bit numb after the first 500 shocks.

Shockwave does not take a long time. We generally look to apply between 4000-8000 shocks, depending on the affected areas. This can be completed within 5-10 minutes. We often will do some other therapy at the time also, things like strapping or exercise prescription.

For more detailed information about the mechanisms of action and evidence base for shockwave see here.

Furthermore there are plenty of peer reviewed papers that have been published that support the use of ESWT as a very effective measure. Please google scholar search or contact our clinic and we can provide some relevant articles.