Shock Wave Therapy

What is Shock Wave Therapy?

Shock Wave Therapy is a non-invasive procedure that can help jumpstart the body’s healing process using high energy sound waves to treat painful muscles, tendons, and bones.

Indications

Shock Wave therapy is commonly used for

  • Plantar Fasciitis

  • Tennis Elbow

  • Achilles Tendinopathy

  • Patellar Tendinopathy (Jumper’s Knee)

  • Shin Splints

  • Hip pain

Before the Procedure

Stop anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen (Advil), naproxen (Aleve), or aspirin 2 weeks before the first session and throughout the treatment course.

During the Procedure

Shock Wave Therapy is not invasive and is done in an office setting. There is no hospital stay required.

  • A gel is applied to the skin and the device is pressed against the treatment area.

  • You may feel some tapping or a pulsing sensation during treatment. Feeling some mild discomfort is normal.

  • Generally, anesthesia is not needed

Each session lasts about 10 to 20 minutes. Most treatment plans include 3 to 5 sessions, spread out over several weeks.

Post Procedure

It is normal to have some soreness, redness, or mild swelling at the treatment site. These are signs that your body’s healing response has been activated. These symptoms are temporary and should go away in a few days.

Medication Guidelines

  • Do not take anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS) like ibuprophen (Advil), naproxen (Aleve), aspirin, or diclofenac (Voltaren) for at least 4 weeks following treatment.

  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is safe to take if needed for pain relief.

  • Ice packs may be applied to the treated area

Activity Guidelines

  • First 24-48 hours: Rest treated area. Avoid intense exercise, heavy lifting, and high-impact activities such as running and jumping.

  • During treatment course (generally 3-5 weeks): Avoid vigorous physical activities. Light daily activities such as walking, gentle stretching, and routine tasks are fine.

  • Follow any rehabilitation or exercise programs recommended by your doctor or physical therapist.

Shock Wave therapy does not provide instant relief. It works by jumpstarting your body’s natural healing process. Most patients see results 3 to 4 months after starting treatment. Improvement in symptoms can continue for up to 12 months after treatment.

When to call your doctor

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following after the procedure

  • Fever or chills

  • Severe or worsening pain

  • Significant bruising or swelling that gets worse over time

  • Inability to bear weight or use the treated limb

  • Redness, swelling, or drainage at the injection site

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Yes, Shock Wave Therapy is a non-invasive procedure that it is safe to drive home from.

  • No, because Shock Wave therapy encourages the body’s natural healing processes, most patients begin to feel relief 3-4 months after starting treatment once the body starts to repair the tissue.

  • No, avoid taking anti-inflammatory medications such as Advil during the course of your treatment. Tylenol can be used as needed for pain relief.

  • Some patients feel a tapping or pulsing sensation during treatment. Some soreness and mild discomfort after the procedure is normal.

  • Most treatment plans involve 3 to 5 sessions, usually spaced one week apart. Your provider will determine the best plan for your specific condition.

  • Some patients may not respond fully to the first course of treatment. Your provider may recommend a second course of therapy or adding a structured exercise or physical therapy program. Research shows that combining shock wave therapy with specific exercises improves success rates.