Do you have aches and pains that won’t go away? Do you suffer from painful feet, knees or back? Many people feel like they are stuck in pain. But there’s a new treatment called shockwave therapy that can fix this problem faster than you think.
What is shockwave therapy and how does it work?
is a way to treat pain without surgery. Sound waves are used. These waves penetrate deep into your painful body parts. They help stimulate blood flow, reduce swelling and speed healing.
Doctors use it when other treatments no longer work. It often helps with pain in the heels, shoulders, elbows, hips and knees.
The treatment is quick: about 10 to 20 minutes per session. Usually 3 to 6 sessions are needed. Most people feel better after just a few visits.
This is what happens during a session:
- You lie down or sit.
- A doctor will apply a gel to your painful area.
- They then press a small device onto your skin.
- The device sends shock waves into your body.
- You may feel ticking or small pulses. It usually doesn’t hurt.
That’s it! After the session you can go outside and continue your day.
What problems can shockwave therapy help with?
Shockwave therapy is used for many injuries and conditions, such as:
Plantar fasciitis (heel pain)
This is one of the most common reasons why people use shockwave therapy. That sharp heel pain when you walk in the morning? Yes, this can help.
A study among 245 people even showed that 80% felt better after shockwave therapy. One patient said that after just three sessions it felt “like you went from walking on hot rocks to walking on pillows”!
Tennis elbow
This is when your elbow hurts from overuse. It doesn’t just apply to tennis players; it can happen to anyone who uses their arms a lot. Shockwave therapy can reduce pain and ensure that you can use your arm again without any problems.
Shoulder tendonitis
If it hurts to raise your arm or sleep on your side, your shoulder tendons may be irritated. Shockwave therapy can reduce and relieve pain without painkillers or injections.
Hip pain or bursitis
Tight hips or pain when walking or climbing stairs? Shockwave therapy can also help here. It can fight inflammation and help you move better.
Knee pain (patellar tendinitis)
Does your knee suffer from exercise or just walking? Shockwave therapy helps heal the thick ligaments around your kneecap. This makes your knee strong and stable again.
Shin Splints and Stress Fractures
If you’re a runner or walk a lot, this may sound familiar. Shockwave therapy is known to aid in tissue healing and bone repair, so it is useful for these types of injuries.
Does science support this?
Yes, a lot! Let’s look at some numbers and real-world examples:
- A study from the American Journal of Sports Medicine found that 76% of people with heel pain felt “significant relief” after four shockwave sessions.
- In Germany, doctors tested the therapy on football players with chronic groin pain. After just three shots of shockwave therapy, most players returned to the field pain-free.
- A case study in Canada followed a 33-year-old marathon runner with painful shin splints. After five sessions, she returned to full training and remained injury-free for months.
Shockwave therapy works especially well when previous treatments fail. If rest, icing, or physical therapy haven’t helped, this may be your answer.
What are the pros and cons?
Let’s break them down simply.
Pros:
- No surgery
- No pills needed
- Short treatment time
- Little to no side effects
- Can walk immediately after the session
Disadvantages:
- Some people may feel mild pain
- It doesn’t work for every person
- Not always insured
- Multiple sessions are usually required
That said, more than 70% of people feel much better after treatment, especially if they follow their doctor’s advice.
Is it safe?
Yes, shockwave therapy is very safe. The sound waves used are the same types used to break up kidney stones in hospitals. The only real side effects are mild redness or swelling after the session. These go away quickly.
People who should not receive this therapy include:
- Pregnant women
- People taking blood thinners
- People with tumors or infections near the treatment area
Always check with your doctor first to make sure this is right for you.
What can you expect during and after the treatment?
Many people worry about pain. Don’t. Most say the treatment feels strange, but not painful. You may feel like you are tapping, as if someone is tapping your skin quickly.
You may feel a little sore for a day or two after the session. That’s normal; it means your body is healing.
Most people can immediately return to work or daily activities. But doctors may ask you to avoid strenuous exercise for a few days.
This is how it usually goes:
- You come by for a small check-up to see if it is something for you.
- The doctor marks the sore spot.
- You lie down; they place the machine on your skin.
- The session lasts approximately 15 minutes.
- Go home and rest or do normal things!
How much does it cost?
Prices vary enormously. In the US, one session can cost between $150 and $350. Since most people need at least 3 to 5 sessions, the total cost can range from $600 to $1,500.
Some insurance plans do not cover shockwave therapy. So it’s best to check this before you start.
Still, many say it’s worth it if they can avoid surgery or long-term pain.
What makes shockwave therapy different from other treatments?
Unlike painkillers, shockwave therapy does not just mask the pain. It helps your body solve the problem. It is also safer than surgery and faster than many rehabilitation therapies.
In short, it helps your body heal itself – quickly and safely.
Will the pain come back?
For many people, the pain goes away forever. About 70% to 80% report pain relief that lasts for months or even years. But as with any treatment, it is not a magical solution.
To stay pain-free, listen to your doctor and follow the following:
- Simple stretching exercises
- A few lifestyle changes
- Good shoes, posture or support where necessary
Final Thoughts: Should You Try Shockwave Therapy?
If you have long-term pain and nothing else helps, shockwave therapy may be perfect for you. It’s fast, simple and often works very well.
Actionable steps:
- Talk to your doctor to see if it’s a good fit for you.
- Try a few sessions and track your progress.
- Maintain good habits after treatment to stay pain-free.
Pain doesn’t have to be forever. Shockwave therapy could be the relief you’ve been waiting for.