What Does Shockwave Therapy Feel Like?

If you've been considering shockwave therapy for a stubborn tendon or musculoskeletal problem, you may be wondering what the treatment actually feels like.

The good news is that shockwave therapy is generally well tolerated, and your practitioner can adjust the treatment intensity according to your symptoms and tolerance.

What does shockwave therapy feel like?

During treatment, a handheld applicator delivers controlled acoustic waves into the affected area.

You will usually feel a series of rapid tapping or pulsing sensations against the skin. Depending on the area being treated and the condition, it can feel uncomfortable, particularly when treating a sensitive or irritable tendon.

However, the intensity can normally be adjusted. The aim isn't to make the treatment unnecessarily painful.

Does shockwave therapy hurt?

Some people describe shockwave therapy as uncomfortable rather than painful. The sensation can vary considerably depending on:

• The condition being treated

• The location of the problem

• How sensitive the area is

• The treatment intensity

• Whether the problem is acute or longstanding

Your practitioner should monitor your response throughout treatment and adjust the settings where appropriate.

What happens after treatment?

It's possible to experience some temporary soreness, redness or sensitivity following treatment. This usually settles relatively quickly.

For some conditions, improvements may not be immediate. Shockwave therapy is often used alongside exercise rehabilitation and load management, rather than as a standalone treatment.

The aim is to improve the capacity of the affected tissue and help you progressively return to normal activity.

How many treatments will I need?

The number of sessions varies depending on the condition, how long you've had the problem and how you respond to treatment.

A course of several treatments is commonly used, with sessions spaced apart to allow the body to respond between treatments.

Your practitioner should assess your condition before recommending whether shockwave therapy is appropriate for you.

Is shockwave therapy suitable for everyone?

No. Shockwave therapy isn't appropriate for every condition or every patient. A proper assessment is important before treatment to establish the likely cause of your symptoms and whether shockwave therapy is suitable.

At Head 2 Toe Osteopathy in Godstone, we use both focused and radial shockwave therapy as part of our approach to treating appropriate musculoskeletal conditions, including persistent tendon problems.

If you're considering shockwave therapy and want to know whether it could be suitable for your injury, an assessment can help determine the most appropriate treatment and rehabilitation approach.

Curious about shockwave therapy but worried it will be painful? An assessment can help you understand exactly what to expect before starting treatment.