Persistent tendon pain can be frustrating, particularly when symptoms continue despite rest, physiotherapy or changes to activity.
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment used for a range of persistent tendon conditions and plantar fascia pain. At Pro Sports Medicine in Cardiff, Radial Shock Wave Therapy (RSWT) can form part of a wider treatment and rehabilitation programme designed to reduce pain, restore tendon capacity and help patients return to activity.
Radial Shock Wave Therapy uses mechanical pressure waves delivered through a handheld applicator to the affected area.
At Pro Sports Medicine, treatment is delivered using a Swiss DolorClast® Shockwave system.
Shockwave therapy is commonly considered for persistent tendon problems that have not improved sufficiently with initial conservative management.
Rather than treating shockwave as a standalone solution, we combine treatment with appropriate diagnosis, progressive loading and structured rehabilitation.
Shockwave therapy may be considered for a number of persistent tendon and soft-tissue conditions, including:
Achilles tendinopathy
Plantar fasciitis / plantar heel pain
Patellar tendinopathy
Tennis elbow
Golfer’s elbow
Greater trochanteric pain syndrome and gluteal tendinopathy
Selected shoulder tendon conditions
Suitability depends on your diagnosis, symptoms and previous treatment. A clinical assessment is therefore important before starting treatment.
Research supports the use of extracorporeal shockwave therapy for a number of musculoskeletal conditions, particularly persistent tendinopathies.
However, shockwave therapy should not be viewed as a quick fix.
Tendon problems are influenced by factors such as tendon loading capacity, strength, biomechanics, training volume and recovery. For this reason, we generally use shockwave alongside a progressive tendon-loading rehabilitation programme rather than in isolation.
At Pro Sports Medicine, our approach is based around identifying the underlying problem and building a structured pathway back to activity.
Where appropriate, treatment may include:
1. Assessment and Diagnosis
A detailed clinical assessment to identify the likely source of your symptoms.
2. Shockwave Therapy
Radial shockwave treatment targeted to the symptomatic tendon or soft tissue.
3. Progressive Loading
A structured strengthening programme designed to gradually increase the tendon’s ability to tolerate load.
4. Return to Activity
Progressive return to running, gym training, sport or normal daily activity based on symptoms and function.
For persistent or complex tendon problems, further assessment such as diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound may also be considered.
Shockwave therapy is delivered through a handheld applicator placed over the treatment area using ultrasound gel.
A series of mechanical impulses is then delivered into the tissue.
A typical treatment takes approximately 10–15 minutes.
You may experience some discomfort during treatment. The intensity can be adjusted according to your tolerance and the area being treated.
Most patients are able to walk out of the clinic and continue normal day-to-day activities after treatment, although your clinician may advise modifying strenuous exercise depending on the condition being treated.
The number of sessions required varies according to the condition, its duration and individual response.
A short course of treatment is commonly used, with sessions usually spaced approximately one week apart.
Your clinician will recommend an appropriate treatment plan following assessment rather than applying the same protocol to every patient.
The short answer is No.
Shockwave therapy is not appropriate for every painful tendon or musculoskeletal condition. An accurate diagnosis should come first.
Your clinician will also check for any medical factors or contraindications that could make treatment inappropriate.
If shockwave is unlikely to be the best treatment, other options can be discussed.
Some private medical insurers provide cover for shockwave therapy, but coverage varies between insurers and individual policies.
Patients planning to use private medical insurance should contact their insurer before beginning treatment to confirm authorisation and any specific requirements.
Self-funded shockwave therapy is also available at Pro Sports Medicine.
Shockwave therapy at Pro Sports Medicine is delivered as part of a wider sports medicine and rehabilitation pathway, rather than as an isolated treatment.
Our Cardiff clinic provides access to:
This allows us to manage both the painful tendon and the factors that may be preventing successful recovery.
If you have persistent Achilles pain, plantar heel pain, patellar tendon pain, tennis elbow or another longstanding tendon problem, shockwave therapy may form part of your treatment programme.
Our team can assess your injury, establish an appropriate diagnosis and determine whether shockwave therapy is suitable for you.
Pro Sports Medicine
Cardiff Business Park, Llanishen, Cardiff
02920 762000
info@prosportsmedicine.co.uk
Book an assessment with the Pro Sports Medicine team to discuss your treatment and rehabilitation options.
