What is Shockwave Therapy?
Advanced Shockwave Therapy
Welcome to the forefront of pain resolution at DENOVO Physio & Rehab. We offer Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) — a non-invasive, evidence-based treatment endorsed by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) for its proven efficacy in chronic musculoskeletal conditions that have not responded to conventional treatment.
We use an advanced Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) system designed to:
- Stimulate the body’s natural healing response
- Deliver targeted relief at the source of pain
- Restore mobility and improve overall quality of life
This treatment works by delivering controlled acoustic pressure waves directly into damaged tissues, effectively “reawakening” stalled healing processes at the cellular level. It is particularly effective in treating chronic tendon, ligament, and soft tissue injuries.
Welcome to the forefront of pain resolution at DENOVO Physio & Rehab. We offer Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) — a non-invasive, evidence-based treatment endorsed by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) for its proven efficacy in chronic musculoskeletal conditions that have not responded to conventional treatment.
We use an advanced Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) system designed to:
Stimulate the body’s natural healing response
Deliver targeted relief at the source of pain
Restore mobility and improve quality of life
This treatment sends acoustic pressure waves directly into damaged tissues, “reawakening” stalled healing processes at the cellular level. It is especially effective in chronic tendon, ligament, and soft tissue injuries.
Why Choose Shockwave Therapy?
- Non-invasive: Avoid surgery and its associated risks.
- Effective pain relief: Experience long-lasting pain reduction.
- Faster healing: Stimulate tissue repair and regeneration.
- Improved function: Restore mobility and range of motion.
- Minimal downtime: Return to your normal activities quickly.
How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?
The Science of Cellular Regeneration
Shockwave therapy is not electrical stimulation or laser. It uses high-energy sound waves delivered through a handheld applicator to trigger powerful biological responses within damaged tissues.
Pain Reduction
High-energy pulses desensitize nerve endings and block pain signals while reducing Substance P — a key neuropeptide responsible for chronic pain.
Neovascularisation
Controlled micro-trauma stimulates new capillary formation, improving blood flow, oxygen delivery, and tissue regeneration.
Reverses Chronic Inflammation
Activates mast cells that regulate inflammatory processes, helping transition the body from prolonged inflammation to active healing.
Breaks Down Calcium Deposits
Effectively treats calcific tendinopathy by fragmenting calcium build-up, which is then naturally reabsorbed by the body.
Stimulates Collagen Production
Enhances the production of strong, structured collagen fibers essential for tendon, ligament, and soft tissue repair.
The Science of Cellular Regeneration
Shockwave therapy is not electrical stimulation or laser — it uses high-energy sound waves delivered through a handheld applicator to trigger a range of biological effects:
Pain Reduction
The intense pulses desensitize nerve endings and block pain signals. They also break down Substance P, a neuropeptide involved in chronic pain.Neovascularisation (New Blood Vessel Formation)
Micro-trauma from the pressure waves stimulates the formation of new capillaries, increasing blood flow and oxygen supply to the damaged area.Reverses Chronic Inflammation
Activates mast cells, essential for switching off long-term inflammation and initiating proper healing.Breaks Down Calcium Deposits
Particularly effective in treating calcific tendinopathy, shockwaves fragment calcium build-up, which the body gradually reabsorbs.Stimulates Collagen Production
Promotes the formation of strong, structured collagen fibers—key to tendon and ligament repair.
In essence: Shockwave Therapy converts a chronic, stagnant injury into an acute one — enabling your body to begin the healing process again.
Conditions Treated with Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a versatile, evidence-based treatment for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions—particularly chronic issues that have not responded to conventional therapies.
Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Spurs
The gold standard treatment for persistent heel pain.
Achilles Tendinopathy
Effective for both mid-portion and insertional conditions.
Tennis Elbow
Targets chronic pain on the outside of the elbow.
Golfer’s Elbow
Relieves pain on the inside of the elbow.
Patellar Tendinopathy
Treats anterior knee pain affecting the patellar tendon.
Hip Bursitis / GTPS
Addresses pain on the outer hip region effectively.
Calcific Tendinitis (Shoulder)
Breaks down calcium deposits in rotator cuff tendons.
Hamstring Tendinopathy
Targets deep chronic pain in the upper hamstring region.
Conditions Treated with Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a versatile treatment option for a range of musculoskeletal conditions. It is particularly effective for chronic conditions that have not responded to other treatments. Here are some of the conditions that can be treated with shockwave therapy:
Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Spurs
The gold standard for persistent heel pain.Achilles Tendinopathy
Effective for both mid-portion and insertional types.Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Relief for chronic pain on the outside of the elbow.Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Targets pain on the inside of the elbow.Patellar Tendinopathy (Jumper’s Knee)
For anterior knee pain affecting the patellar tendon.Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome / Hip Bursitis
Addresses pain on the outside of the hip.Calcific Tendinitis (Shoulder)
Breaks down calcium in rotator cuff tendons.Hamstring Tendinopathy
Treats deep, chronic pain at the upper hamstrings.
What to Expect During Your Treatment
Your Shockwave Therapy Journey
Your treatment is carefully tailored and delivered by our expert physiotherapists, ensuring precision, safety, and optimal clinical outcomes.
Comprehensive Assessment
We begin with a detailed physical evaluation to confirm the diagnosis and determine whether shockwave therapy is the most appropriate treatment for your condition.
Targeted Application
The precise area of pain is identified, and a water-based gel is applied to ensure optimal transmission of acoustic energy into the affected tissue.
Treatment Delivery
The applicator is placed on the target area. You may hear a clicking sound and feel pulsing sensations. Mild discomfort can occur, but intensity is always adjusted according to your tolerance and therapeutic goals.
Aftercare & Follow-Up
A typical course includes 3–6 weekly sessions. We provide detailed aftercare guidance, including activity modifications and advice to avoid anti-inflammatory medication to maximize the body’s natural healing response.
Your treatment is carefully tailored and delivered by our expert physiotherapists.
1. Comprehensive Assessment
We begin with a detailed physical evaluation to confirm the diagnosis and determine if shockwave therapy is appropriate for you.
2. Targeted Application
We identify the precise area of pain and apply a water-based gel to optimize energy transfer.
3. Treatment Delivery
The applicator is placed on the target tissue. You’ll hear a loud clicking and feel pulsing sensations. Some mild discomfort is expected, but we always adjust intensity based on your tolerance and the clinical goal.
4. Aftercare & Follow-Up
Each course typically includes 3–6 weekly sessions. We provide post-treatment guidance — including activity modifications and recommendations to avoid anti-inflammatory medications to ensure optimal healing response.
Why Choose Denovo Physio & Rehab for Shockwave Therapy
At Denovo Physio & Rehab, we combine advanced shockwave technology with highly skilled physiotherapists to deliver tailored treatments that target your specific condition. Our team takes the time to understand your pain, assess your movement, and create a personalised treatment plan designed to maximise healing, restore function, and prevent recurrence. With our patient-focused approach and evidence-based techniques, we ensure that each session is safe, comfortable, and effective — helping you get back to your daily activities with confidence and ease.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shockwave Therapy
- Is Shockwave Therapy painful?
During treatment, you may feel a series of clicking or pulsing sensations. Some mild discomfort is normal, but our physiotherapists adjust the intensity to your comfort level. Most patients tolerate the sessions well, and any soreness typically subsides within a day or two. - How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions depends on your condition and severity of symptoms. Typically, patients undergo 3–6 weekly sessions, each tailored to your specific needs for optimal healing. - How soon will I notice the results?
Many patients report improvement within 2–4 weeks, though some chronic conditions may take longer. Shockwave Therapy stimulates your body’s natural healing, so gradual improvement is expected. - Are there any side effects?
Shockwave Therapy is non-invasive and generally very safe. Mild redness, swelling, or temporary discomfort at the treatment site may occur but usually resolves quickly. Serious side effects are extremely rare. - Can I return to normal activity after treatment?
Yes! One of the benefits of Shockwave Therapy is minimal downtime. You can usually resume daily activities immediately, though we provide personalised aftercare advice to support your healing. - Who is suitable for Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave Therapy is ideal for chronic musculoskeletal conditions such as plantar fasciitis, tendon injuries, and calcific deposits that have not responded to conventional treatments. Your physiotherapist will assess your suitability during your initial consultation. - Is Shockwave Therapy covered by insurance?
Coverage varies depending on your insurance provider and plan. Our clinic can provide documentation and guidance to help you check your policy.
