Shock Wave Therapy: What It Is and How It Works

Shockwave therapy is an effective treatment for persistent tendon, muscle, and joint difficulties. The technology originated in operating rooms over two decades ago for non-surgical kidney stone fragmentation, and has since been developed for outpatient musculoskeletal treatment.

How It Works

The therapy works by breaking down fibrous (scar) tissue and calcific deposits within damaged tendons and muscles, while simultaneously stimulating the body to regenerate healthier, more flexible tissue. The acoustic waves create controlled microtrauma that triggers the body's healing cascade, bringing in stem cells and growth factors to rebuild the damaged area.

Conditions It Treats

Shockwave therapy is particularly effective for conditions where conventional physiotherapy has been unsuccessful:

• Achilles tendinosis: calf tendon pain and stiffness
• Plantar fasciitis: heel and foot sole pain
• Patella tendinitis: knee tendon pain, particularly in athletes
• Golfer's and tennis elbow: forearm tendon pain from repetitive movements
• Trigger points: chronic muscle knots associated with fibromyalgia and tension headaches
• Back pain: medical trials have demonstrated effectiveness comparable to injections for facet joint pain
• Shoulder impingement: tendon compression during overhead movements, including calcification cases

Radial vs Focused Shockwave

At Spine Plus we offer both radial shockwave (for superficial tendon and soft tissue conditions) and focused shockwave (for deeper structures, including joints and for men's health conditions). Focused shockwave penetrates to 6 to 8 centimetres, significantly exceeding the reach of radial devices.

Call us on 020 8506 1000 to discuss whether shockwave therapy is right for your condition.