What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave Therapy uses low-energy acoustic pulses that travel through the body’s tissues, similar to sound waves moving through air or water. These pulses are applied to the skin and pass into the underlying tissues, where they stimulate healing processes and pain modulation.

Originally developed in medicine to break down kidney stones without surgery, shockwave technology has been used since the 1990s to treat stubborn tendon and soft-tissue injuries. It is now a well-established treatment within orthopaedic and rehabilitation care. Shockwave therapy works by encouraging circulation, tissue regeneration and the body’s natural repair response, particularly in areas that have struggled to heal fully.

Why We Use Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave Therapy is most commonly used for tendon-related pain and overload conditions, especially when symptoms have not responded fully to rest, exercise or hands-on treatment alone. It may help to:

• Stimulate tissue repair and regeneration

• Reduce chronic tendon pain

• Improve blood flow to slow-healing areas

• Support recovery in persistent or recurring injuries

• Restore confidence in movement

At Perfect Balance, Shockwave Therapy is used alongside clinical assessment, not instead of it.

Common Conditions We Treat With Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave Therapy may be used as part of treatment for:

• Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)

• Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis)

• Plantar fasciitis and heel pain

• Achilles tendinopathy

• Patellar tendon pain

• Shoulder tendon pain

• Hip bursitis (greater trochanteric pain)

• Shin splints

• Chronic tendon overload from sport or work

If your condition isn’t listed, that doesn’t mean Shockwave Therapy isn’t appropriate. Many clients come to us without a clear diagnosis, we assess, explain and guide you.

What to Expect From Shockwave Therapy

Your appointment will begin with a clinical assessment to confirm whether Shockwave Therapy is suitable for you. If appropriate:

• The area is identified and prepared

• A gel is applied to improve contact

• The handheld device delivers acoustic pulses for a few minutes

• Treatment is brief and requires no recovery time

Shockwave Therapy is generally well tolerated. Some people notice mild soreness for a day or two after treatment, a normal response linked to tissue stimulation. Your Perfect Balance Clinician will explain exactly what to expect and how Shockwave Therapy fits into your wider plan.