Physical Therapy & Injury Specialists is now offering shockwave therapy as an additional treatment option for select orthopedic and musculoskeletal conditions, often coupled with other physical therapy modalities.
Shockwave therapy, also known as radial pressure wave therapy, is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic pressure waves to stimulate tissue healing, improve local circulation, and help reduce pain in irritated or chronically painful tissues. It is commonly used for tendon-related pain and other stubborn musculoskeletal conditions that have not fully responded to traditional treatment approaches.
What conditions may benefit from shockwave therapy?
Shockwave therapy may be helpful for a variety of chronic or persistent orthopedic conditions, including:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Patellar tendinopathy
- Tennis elbow / lateral epicondylitis
- Shoulder pain, including calcific tendinopathy
- Hip pain and gluteal tendinopathy
- Greater trochanteric pain syndrome
- Other chronic tendon or soft tissue conditions
Not every patient or condition is appropriate for shockwave therapy. Our physical therapists will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals to determine whether this treatment may be a good fit for you.
How does shockwave therapy work?
During treatment, a handheld applicator is placed over the targeted area. The device delivers acoustic pressure waves into the tissue. These pressure waves are intended to stimulate the body’s healing response and may improve pain and function over time.
Treatment sessions are typically brief and are often performed as part of a broader physical therapy plan. Shockwave therapy is most effective when it is combined with appropriate exercise, manual therapy, movement retraining, and activity modification.
What should I expect?
Most treatments take only a few minutes per area. Patients may feel tapping, pressure, or mild discomfort during the treatment. The intensity can be adjusted based on your tolerance.
Some patients notice improvement quickly, while others improve gradually over several sessions. Mild soreness after treatment can occur and usually resolves quickly.
Is shockwave therapy covered by insurance?
Shockwave therapy is typically offered as a self-pay service and may not be covered by insurance. Our team will review pricing and package options with you before you begin treatment.
Interested in shockwave therapy?
If you are currently a patient at PTIS, talk with your physical therapist to see whether shockwave therapy may be appropriate for your condition.
If you are not currently a patient, you may contact our office to schedule an evaluation and find out whether shockwave therapy is a good option for you.