Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave Therapy at Complete

Complete Physio Richmond offers evidence-based Shockwave Therapy as part of comprehensive rehabilitation programs for persistent tendon and musculoskeletal pain. We have offered this service since 2012.

Shockwave Therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), uses targeted acoustic waves to stimulate a local tissue and neurological response to assist in injury recovery. It can be an effective treatment option for chronic tendon pain and overuse injuries that have not fully responded to exercise rehabilitation alone.

Physiotherapist performing shockwave therapy on a patient's Achilles at Complete Physio Richmond
Close-up of a shockwave therapy applicator delivering acoustic waves to a patient's heel

What is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave Therapy is a non-invasive treatment that delivers high-energy acoustic waves into injured or painful tissue.

These acoustic waves are thought to:

  • Stimulate blood flow and tissue healing
  • Promote cellular regeneration and collagen production
  • Reduce pain sensitivity
  • Improve function and movement capacity

Shockwave Therapy is commonly used in sports medicine and physiotherapy for chronic tendon and soft tissue conditions.

Our physiotherapists integrate Shockwave Therapy with individualised exercise rehabilitation, strength training, load management, and education to help you achieve long-term outcomes, not just short-term pain relief.

Conditions Shockwave Therapy May Help

Shockwave Therapy may be beneficial for a range of persistent musculoskeletal conditions, including:

  • Achilles tendinopathy
  • Plantar heel pain / plantar fasciopathy
  • Patellar tendinopathy (jumper’s knee)
  • Gluteal tendinopathy and lateral hip pain
  • Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylalgia)
  • Golfer’s elbow
  • Rotator cuff tendinopathy
  • Calcific shoulder pain
  • Hamstring tendinopathy
  • Shin pain / medial tibial stress syndrome
  • Persistent muscular trigger points and soft tissue pain

Your physiotherapist will assess whether Shockwave Therapy is appropriate for your specific condition and goals.

What Does Treatment Involve?

Shockwave Therapy sessions are typically performed as part of a broader physiotherapy consultation.

Treatment usually involves:
  • A comprehensive assessment and diagnosis
  • Identification of contributing factors including strength, movement, training loads, and recovery
  • Application of Shockwave Therapy to the affected tissue
  • A personalised rehabilitation and exercise program
  • Progressive load management and return-to-activity planning
  • The number of sessions can vary depending on the condition, duration of symptoms, and individual response, but typically ranges between 1 and 5.
  • The treatment itself usually takes only a few minutes. Discomfort and pain during treatment is common, particularly when treating tendon pain, but intensity can be adjusted to your tolerance.
Evidence-Based Care

We prioritise treatments supported by research and integrate them within a broader rehabilitation approach.

While Shockwave Therapy can be helpful for some persistent tendon conditions, it is rarely used as a standalone treatment. Current evidence suggests the best outcomes occur when Shockwave Therapy is combined with progressive exercise rehabilitation and appropriate load management.

Our team has extensive experience treating running injuries, tendon pain, sports injuries, and complex musculoskeletal conditions using an evidence-based approach tailored to each individual.

Why Choose Complete?

  • Experienced physiotherapists with expertise in tendon and running-related injuries
  • Evidence-based rehabilitation informed by current research
  • Individualised treatment plans tailored to your goals
  • Integrated approach combining hands-on treatment, exercise rehabilitation, and education
  • State-of-the-art rehabilitation and treatment facilities on Bridge Rd, Richmond
Physiotherapist treating a patient's foot with shockwave therapy at Complete Physio in Richmond

Frequently Asked Questions

Some discomfort during treatment is common, particularly when treating painful tendons. The intensity can be adjusted throughout the session and most people tolerate treatment well.

Most conditions require between 1 and 5 sessions, although this varies depending on the condition, severity, and duration of symptoms.

Shockwave Therapy is considered a safe, non-invasive treatment when delivered by trained healthcare professionals. Your physiotherapist will assess whether it is appropriate for you.

Yes. Exercise rehabilitation remains one of the most important components of recovery for most tendon and musculoskeletal conditions. Shockwave Therapy is generally used to complement a structured rehabilitation program rather than replace it.

Further Reading

For more on the evidence behind Shockwave Therapy for tendinopathy, read our article: Shockwave Therapy for Tendinopathy – Save Your Money?.

If you are dealing with persistent tendon pain, heel pain, or a chronic soft tissue injury, our team can help determine whether Shockwave Therapy is appropriate for you.

Book online to arrange an assessment with one of our experienced physiotherapists.

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