What shockwave therapy is
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that delivers focused acoustic pulses through the skin to a targeted area of tissue, most commonly a tendon that’s become painful and slow to heal. It’s typically used for stubborn, ongoing tendon pain that hasn’t settled with rest, load management or general exercise alone.
How it’s used in practice
At Next Phase Injury Therapy in Yagoona, shockwave therapy is delivered by our AHPRA-registered physiotherapists as part of a broader treatment plan — it’s rarely used in isolation. A typical course involves a series of sessions, usually spaced about a week apart, alongside an exercise program aimed at gradually building the tendon’s capacity to handle load again.
- Non-invasive — no needles or incisions involved
- Sessions are relatively quick, often 10–15 minutes for the treated area
- Usually combined with a structured loading or strengthening program
- Often considered for conditions like plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow and Achilles tendinopathy
What it feels like
Most people describe the sensation as a rhythmic tapping or pulsing, which can range from mild to moderately uncomfortable depending on the treated area and how sensitive the tissue is. Your physiotherapist will adjust the intensity based on your feedback throughout the session.
Quick tip
Mild soreness in the treated area for a day or two after a session is common — gentle activity is usually fine, but check with your physiotherapist about avoiding anything too strenuous straight after treatment.
Is it right for everyone?
Shockwave therapy isn’t suitable for every condition or every person, and your physiotherapist will assess your situation before recommending it. It’s generally considered when more conservative approaches — rest, load management, stretching and strengthening — haven’t fully resolved a stubborn tendon issue on their own.
Shockwave therapy is one tool in a broader recovery plan, not a stand-alone quick fix.
What to expect from a course of treatment
Results build gradually over a course of sessions rather than appearing after a single treatment. Your physiotherapist will monitor your progress and adjust your exercise program alongside your shockwave sessions, so the two work together toward a more resilient, capable tendon.
What research generally suggests
Shockwave therapy has been studied for a range of tendon conditions, with research generally supporting its use as part of a broader treatment approach for certain stubborn tendon issues, particularly when combined with an appropriate exercise program. Your physiotherapist can discuss what the evidence suggests for your specific condition.
As with most treatments, individual responses vary, and shockwave therapy won’t be the right fit for every person or every condition — which is why a proper assessment always comes first.
Discussing your options
If you’re considering shockwave therapy, it’s worth having an open conversation with your physiotherapist about realistic expectations, how it fits with your broader treatment plan, and any alternatives that might also be appropriate for your situation.
Cost and session planning
Since shockwave therapy is typically delivered as a course rather than a single session, it’s worth discussing the likely number of sessions and associated costs with our team upfront, so you can plan accordingly.
Learn more from independent sources: healthdirect Australia. Information on this page is general in nature and is not a substitute for individualised advice from a registered health practitioner.
Information on this page is general in nature and is not a substitute for individualised advice from a registered health practitioner. Our practitioners are registered with AHPRA.