Shockwave therapy is a non-surgical treatment used for persistent musculoskeletal (MSK) pain, particularly chronic tendon and soft-tissue conditions that have not improved with simple measures such as rest, physiotherapy, or analgesia. It works by delivering focused sound waves to the affected tissue, stimulating biological healing processes and reducing pain over time.
At Northern Medical, shockwave therapy is provided as part of a structured MSK assessment and treatment pathway. We use focused shockwave technology, which allows accurate targeting of deeper tissues where appropriate. Treatment is delivered in clinic, requires no injections or anaesthetic, and most patients can continue normal daily activities.
Shockwave therapy is supported by a growing evidence base and is recommended in national and international guidelines for selected chronic MSK conditions.
Shockwave therapy uses high-energy acoustic waves applied externally to the skin over the affected area. These waves stimulate increased blood flow, cellular activity, and collagen production within the tissue, helping to restart stalled healing processes.
It has been used for many years in orthopaedics and sports medicine, particularly for chronic tendinopathies. Unlike treatments that only provide short-term pain relief, shockwave therapy aims to address the underlying tissue pathology. It is most effective for long-standing conditions, and outcomes depend on accurate diagnosis and appropriate patient selection.
Shockwave therapy is most commonly used for chronic tendon and soft-tissue conditions lasting longer than three months. These include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, patellar tendinopathy, lateral hip pain (GTPS), tennis elbow, and calcific shoulder tendinopathy.
It may also be appropriate for selected muscle and ligament problems where recovery has plateaued. Not all musculoskeletal conditions respond to shockwave therapy, and it is not offered routinely without assessment. Your clinician will confirm whether shockwave is suitable for your diagnosis, symptom duration, and previous treatments.
Most patients require a short course of shockwave therapy, typically four to six sessions, usually spaced one week apart. The exact number depends on the condition being treated and your response to treatment. Progress is reviewed during the course to guide further management.
Shockwave therapy can be mildly uncomfortable, especially over tender areas or bony prominences, but it is generally well tolerated. Discomfort occurs during treatment rather than afterwards and usually settles quickly. Treatment intensity can be adjusted to keep it manageable.
