Overview

Shockwave therapy (ESWT) delivers pulsed acoustic energy to a precise area to nudge a stalled tissue back into a healing pattern. It’s most often used when a problem hasn’t responded to rest or routine care and works best when layered onto a neurologically informed chiropractic plan.

How it works

The acoustic pulses create a small, controlled mechanical stimulus that can increase local blood flow, modulate pain signaling, and trigger a “repair” response in the tissue. Sessions are brief, and we match intensity to your comfort.

Why we use it

ESWT is most consistently helpful for upper and lower extremity tendon, fascial, and soft-tissue issues. It’s often considered for other stubborn tendon problems (e.g., tennis elbow) when exam findings fit. It’s not a replacement for adjustments or active care—we use it to calm irritated tissue so the sensory signals feeding your brain clear up and motor control carries over between visits.

When we use it

  • Plantar fasciitis (heel pain)
  • Upper and lower extremity tendinopathy
  • Lateral epicondyle (“tennis elbow”) and other persistent tendon/enthesis complaints
  • Stubborn spots that haven’t improved with rest or routine care
  • When you prefer a non‑invasive option before considering injections or surgery

What to expect

  1. Evaluate — confirm ESWT is a good fit for your case
  2. Treatment — a tapping/pulsing sensation for a few minutes; intensity is matched to comfort
  3. Series — many people do best with 3–10 sessions
  4. Pair with chiropractic care and exercises — we combine ESWT with adjustments and a short list of exercises so neurologic gains “stick”
  5. Track — quick rechecks guide any adjustments to the plan

How we measure progress

  • Pain/irritation changes during daily tasks
  • Function: walking tolerance (minutes or step count), stairs, grip strength, reach distance
  • Tissue tolerance and range‑of‑motion rechecks

We’ll tell you if ESWT isn’t appropriate or if another provider is the better next step. Your result comes first.

FAQs

Is it safe? Will it hurt?
ESWT is generally safe when used appropriately. Most people feel a tapping or pulsing sensation; we adjust intensity to your comfort. Mild soreness or redness afterward is common and typically short‑lived.
Is there research to support it?
Yes. ESWT shows the strongest, most consistent benefit for plantar fasciitis and tendinopathy. Outcomes vary by condition and treatment settings, which is why we pair ESWT with a treatment plan. A few examples:
  • Lippi L, Folli A, Moalli S, Turco A, Ammendolia A, de Sire A, Invernizzi M. Efficacy and tolerability of extracorporeal shock wave therapy in patients with plantar fasciopathy: a systematic review with meta-analysis and meta-regression. Eur J Phys Rehabil Med. 2024 Oct. PubMed 39257331
  • Feeney KM. The Effectiveness of Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy for Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy: A Systematic Review. Cureus. 2022 Jul. PubMed 35989757
  • NICE IPG311 & IPG571: ESWT for plantar fasciitis and for Achilles tendinopathy (safety good; efficacy context). NICE IPG311
How many sessions will I need?
It varies by condition, but a short series (often 3–10 sessions) is common. We reassess each visit and adjust as needed.
Can I combine it with other care?
Yes — ESWT pairs well with adjustments, manual therapy, and a simple loading plan. That combination is often what makes results last.
Who shouldn’t have ESWT?
ESWT isn’t used over bone growth plates, active infection, tumors, or in pregnancy over the abdomen/pelvis. People with bleeding disorders or on certain blood thinners may not be candidates. We screen for safety first.
What if I need a referral?
We’ll refer you to the right specialist (PT, orthopedics, etc.) if needed. The goal is the best result for you.
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