Shockwave Therapy
For tendon pain that hasn't settled on its own
Fit by Physio uses focused shockwave therapy, not radial - focused shockwave allows the treatment energy to be directed towards a defined area and depth. It works by delivering sound wave pulses through the skin and may help reduce pain and improve function in selected longstanding tendon conditions, and is most useful when a tendon has been painful for a while and hasn't responded to rest or a loading programme alone. It is normally used alongside an appropriate strength and loading programme as part of a wider rehabilitation plan.
Conditions it helps
• Plantar fasciitis - persistent heel pain
• Achilles tendinopathy - heel and lower calf pain
• Patellar tendinopathy - pain below the kneecap
• Gluteal tendinopathy - outer hip pain
• Hamstring tendinopathy - pain at the sit bone
• Adductor tendinopathy (groin) - nagging groin pain, common in footballers
• Tennis elbow - outer elbow pain, increasingly common with the rise of Padel
• Calcific tendinopathy - pain linked to calcium build-up in the tendon, most often in the shoulder
What a session involves
Treatment takes a few minutes per area and is usually done once a week over several sessions. It can feel uncomfortable at the time, similar to a firm, repeated tapping, but it shouldn't be unbearable - Toby will adjust the intensity to what you can manage. Most people go straight back to normal daily activity afterwards.
Is it right for you?
Focused shockwave isn't suitable for everyone - it's not used during pregnancy, over certain areas, or for some medical conditions. Toby will check this is right for you before starting, as part of your assessment.
Common questions
How many sessions will I need?
Most tendon problems need somewhere between three and six sessions, roughly a week apart - Toby will give you a clearer estimate once he's assessed you.
Does it hurt?
It's uncomfortable rather than painful for most people, and it eases as treatment progresses.
Will I need anything else alongside it?
Almost always, yes - focused shockwave is normally combined with a specific loading and strengthening programme.
Book an appointment
Email to ask if shockwave is right for you
