Shockwave therapy uses high-energy acoustic pulses (focused or radial) targeted to painful tendons, myofascial tissue or entheses to stimulate tissue repair, reduce chronic pain and break down calcific deposits. At Back To Life, shockwave is used as an evidence-informed adjunct for conditions such as plantar fasciitis, calcific tendinopathy, chronic Achilles tendinopathy and lateral epicondylalgia, integrated within a broader rehabilitation plan.
Acoustic waves deliver mechanical stimulus that promotes neovascularisation, stimulates growth factor release, reduces nociceptor sensitivity and can fragment calcific deposits. Treatment parameters (energy flux density, frequency, pulses) differ for focused vs radial devices and depend on clinical goals.
Chronic heel pain refractory to conservative care — documented positive outcomes with shockwave.
Focused shockwave may help fragment and resorb calcific deposits alongside rehab.
Used as adjunct to loading programs for chronic mid-portion Achilles pain.
Absolute: local tumour, pregnancy over treated area, untreated infection, vascular abnormalities (near plaques). Relative: anticoagulation, poor wound healing, children (open growth plates) — clinician judgment required.
Low-to-moderate energy, 2000–3000 pulses per session, frequency 8–15 Hz; 3–6 weekly sessions commonly used for chronic tendon issues.
Higher energy delivered to a focal point; pulses and EFD adjusted per device and tissue — may need fewer sessions with greater per-session effect. Used for calcific deposits and deep tissues.
Clinicians titrate energy to tolerance; local anaesthetic is rarely used as it may blunt tissue response — patient feedback and progressive loading are key.
Some patients feel a short-lived ache during application; clinicians titrate to acceptable tolerance. Analgesia after treatment is common.
Typically 3–6 sessions spaced 1–2 weeks apart for chronic conditions, but protocols vary by pathology and device.