Maybe you’ve heard of this popular new treatment for a range of musculoskeletal problems. But you may have concerns – is shockwave therapy painful? Is it suitable for you? Before you decide, read our guide to common questions about shockwave therapy, including what it can treat and common side-effects.

What is shockwave therapy used for?

Shockwave therapy works by using sound waves to increase circulation, stimulate healing and reduce pain. It is highly effective for many sports injuries and damage to muscles, connective tissue and tendons.

Shockwave therapy is particularly useful for painful, chronic conditions that have proved resistant to other treatments. Examples include plantar fasciitis, tennis and golfer’s elbow, Achilles tendinitis, hamstring tendinitis, shin splints, calcific tendinitis, and even back pain and knee osteoarthritis.

Is shockwave therapy painful?

Here at Woodside Clinic, the energy intensity of our shockwave treatment is maintained at a level that generally causes no pain. Some people experience a mild discomfort, but most describe feeling nothing more than a slight vibration against the skin.

Each session lasts only 5–10 minutes, so if you do experience some soreness, it’s never prolonged. Furthermore, it’s important to let your therapist know how you’re feeling, as they can often make adjustments to minimise any discomfort.

The therapy has a naturally painkilling effect, so you’ll generally find the pain of your condition improves quickly after the session.

Why should I try shockwave therapy?

Shockwave therapy has many benefits, and it’s an increasingly sought-after option. Here are some key facts:

It works for chronic conditions and is an ideal choice for problems that have not responded to other treatments.
It’s non-invasive, so there’s no need for injections, incisions or anaesthesia.
Shockwave therapy reduces pain and improves healing and function, so you recover quicker and with less need for painkillers.
Research has shown that shockwave therapy is effective for a wide range of conditions.

What are the side effects?

Shockwave therapy is widely considered to be a low-risk treatment.

However, as with all treatments, shockwave therapy carries a small risk of side effects such as mild pain. There may also be some redness or swelling at the treated area. These issues rarely last longer than 24 hours after a treatment.

Rarely, people experience nerve symptoms. This may be increased sensitivity, nerve pain or numbness.

If you have any concerns about side effects, have a chat with your therapist. They’ll talk through the risks relating to your condition and treatment type.

How many sessions will I need?

Inevitably, there’s no one answer to this question. We typically find that three to six sessions are sufficient to resolve most problems. But many patients report that shockwave therapy reduces their pain sooner, as well as giving them better flexibility and function.

How much does shockwave therapy cost?

Shockwave therapy is a great value option for many people, especially those who have not had relief from other treatments. You can find a list of our current prices here.

In addition, many private healthcare insurers will cover the cost of treatment. Please enquire directly with your provider.