Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy (otherwise known as Extracorporeal Shockwave therapy - ESWT) is an evidence based, non-invasive and highly effective treatment option for tendon related pain.

Shockwave therapy (otherwise known as Extracorporeal Shockwave therapy- ESWT) is an evidence based, non-invasive and highly effective treatment option for tendon related pain. The term shockwave refers to mechanical pressure pulses that expand as a wave in the body. The energy wave is created from a hand-piece used by the practitioner which is applied to the skin and shockwaves are transmitted through the skin to the underlying tissues. The shockwaves can penetrate deep into the body, reaching the targeted area. This process increases blood flow, provides pain relief, and stimulates the body’s natural repair and regeneration processes, allowing it to restart its own healing. In some cases, shockwave therapy can stimulate neovascularization, which is the formation of new blood vessels in the targeted area. This increased blood flow can further support the healing process.

What Can It Help With?

Shockwave Therapy can be used to treat a number of musculoskeletal conditions, particularly those that are chronic or persistent, which haven’t responded to other treatments. these include:

Plantar fasciitis
Achilles tendinopathy
Rotator cuff problems
Trochanteric bursitis
Patella tendinopathy (aka runner’s knee)
Tennis & golfer’s elbow
Calcific tendonitis

How is shockwave treatment performed?

A skin gel is applied to the treatment area to allow the shock waves to be introduced into the body without any loss of energy. After these preparations, shock waves are applied as the therapy head is moved over the pain region in a circular motion.

How many sessions do you need?

The amount of treatment sessions will vary dependant on the type of condition being treated. As a rule, 3 - 6 treatment sessions are advised. Sessions should be spaced no more than two weeks apart for optimal results.

How successful is the treatment?

Shockwave therapy works through an accumulative effect. Each session builds upon the previous one, stimulating the body’s natural healing process over time. This is why multiple sessions are necessary – to allow the body adequate time to respond and heal effectively.

There are many good research studies supporting the effectiveness of shockwave. Success rate ranges between 60-90%, depending on the condition being treated. When combined with rehabilitation, Shockwave therapy is clinically proven to be successful in most patients with the conditions listed above after 3 months.

It is used by top orthopaedic hospitals, in elite sport and is covered by many health insurance companies including AXA.

Is Shockwave therapy safe?

Shockwave therapy is backed by the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) which informs clinical practice throughout the UK. Shockwave therapy performed by appropriately trained practitioners is largely risk free. Common side-effects include short-term soreness, redness and bruising.

What to expect from your 45 minute initial Shockwave expert assessment at Central Somerset Physiotherapy?

Discuss your condition, symptoms and treatment goals.
Shockwave treatment.
Progression of rehabilitation exercises.

Follow-up session (up to 30 mins)

Reassessment.
Shockwave treatment.
Progression of rehabilitation exercises.

Please Note: Shockwave is available in:
East Brent - Monday, Tuesday & Friday.
Wells - Wednesday & Thursday.
Weston - Friday (Limited availability).

Price guide: Shockwave

(October 2025)

Shockwave Therapy

Package: 4 x sessions to include an initial assessment - £300.

Includes your initial assessment discussion and includes rehabilitation recommendations.

Additional 2 x sessions - £160.

Reassessment of progress, treatment and reassessment of rehabilitation guidance.

Central Somerset Physiotherapy Ltd. Registered in England & Wales. Registration number 8079844. Registered Office Address: Rectory Road, Burnham-on-Sea, Somerset TA8 2BY United Kingdom. All information and graphics are created in good faith, we cannot be responsible for genuine errors, omissions or changes to our services that may not be reflected on our website.