Expert Shockwave Therapy in Surrey
At Physical Health Physiotherapy, we offer Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), a non-invasive treatment that may help reduce pain and improve function in certain persistent tendon and musculoskeletal conditions.
Whether you're experiencing ongoing Achilles pain, plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow or other tendon-related problems, our experienced physiotherapists can assess your condition and determine whether shockwave therapy could be an appropriate part of your recovery.
With physiotherapy clinics in Shepperton and Woking, Surrey, our focus is on providing personalised, evidence-informed treatment to help you move more comfortably and return to the activities that matter to you.
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-surgical treatment that uses high-energy acoustic pressure waves directed towards a targeted area of the body.
These waves stimulate biological responses within the affected tissues and may help reduce pain and support the body's natural healing processes.
Shockwave therapy is most commonly used for certain persistent tendon conditions, particularly when symptoms have continued despite initial treatment, activity modification or rehabilitation.
Treatment is delivered using a handheld device placed against the skin, with acoustic waves directed towards the affected area.
One of the main advantages of shockwave therapy is that it can be delivered in an outpatient setting without injections or surgery.
However, it is not suitable for every condition, and treatment outcomes vary between individuals.
At Physical Health, we combine shockwave therapy with appropriate physiotherapy assessment, education and rehabilitation to support longer-term recovery.
What happens during a Shockwave Therapy Treatment?
1. Initial Assessment
Before beginning treatment, your physiotherapist will assess your symptoms, medical history, movement and functional limitations.
This helps establish an accurate diagnosis and determine whether shockwave therapy is appropriate.
2. Personalised Treatment Plan
If shockwave therapy is suitable, your physiotherapist will explain the treatment process, expected outcomes and recommended number of sessions.
Your treatment plan may also include strengthening exercises, activity modification and other rehabilitation strategies.
3. Shockwave Treatment
A gel is applied to the treatment area to help transmit the acoustic waves.
Your physiotherapist then uses a handheld applicator to deliver controlled pulses to the affected tissues.
The shockwave component of the appointment typically takes only a few minutes.
You may experience some discomfort during treatment, particularly over sensitive areas. Your physiotherapist can adjust the intensity according to your tolerance.
4. Rehabilitation and Recovery
Following treatment, your physiotherapist will provide guidance on activity and exercise.
Shockwave therapy is generally most effective when used as part of a broader treatment programme rather than as an isolated intervention.
Our goal is not simply to manage your symptoms but to help you regain strength, movement and confidence.
What Conditions Can Shockwave therapy help treat?
Shockwave therapy may be considered for a range of persistent musculoskeletal conditions.
Achilles Tendinopathy
Persistent pain, stiffness or discomfort affecting the Achilles tendon can make walking, running and exercise challenging.
Shockwave therapy may be considered for certain cases of Achilles tendinopathy, particularly when symptoms have not responded sufficiently to a structured rehabilitation programme.
Plantar Fasciitis (Plantar Heel Pain)
Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, often particularly noticeable during the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest.
Shockwave therapy is an established treatment option for some people experiencing persistent plantar heel pain.
Patellar Tendinopathy (Jumper's Knee)
Commonly associated with running, jumping and repetitive sporting activity, patellar tendinopathy can cause pain around the front of the knee.
Shockwave therapy may be considered alongside progressive strengthening and load management, depending on the individual presentation.
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Tennis elbow causes pain around the outside of the elbow and can affect everyday activities such as gripping, lifting and carrying.
Shockwave therapy may be an option in selected persistent cases, although evidence of effectiveness is mixed.
Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome
Often experienced as pain around the outside of the hip, this condition can make walking, climbing stairs or lying on the affected side uncomfortable.
Shockwave therapy may help selected patients when combined with an appropriate strengthening and rehabilitation programme.
Other Persistent Tendon Conditions
Shockwave therapy may also be considered for certain other tendon-related conditions following a thorough clinical assessment.
Not sure whether shockwave therapy is suitable for your symptoms?
Our physiotherapists can assess your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.
