Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) for Pain Management

What is Shockwave Therapy for Pain Management?

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. Originally developed to break down kidney stones, it is now widely used in orthopaedic and sports medicine for pain relief and tissue regeneration.

By targeting injured or inflamed areas with focused pulses of energy, shockwave therapy promotes blood flow, encourages collagen production, and accelerates tissue repair. This is achieved without the need for surgery or medication.

How does Shockwave Therapy help in Pain Management?

The treatment works by delivering precise acoustic energy into the affected tissues, triggering a biological healing response known as mechanotransduction.

This process involves several key effects:

• Breakdown of scar tissue – chronic injuries often lead to scar formation, which can stiffen tissues and limit movement. Shockwaves help disrupt these fibrous adhesions, restoring flexibility and function.

• Cell regeneration and tissue repair – the mechanical pulses stimulate cells, such as fibroblasts and osteoblasts, in the damaged area to repair and regenerate soft tissue and bone more effectively.

• Improved blood circulation – by promoting neoangiogenesis, or the formation of new microvessels, shockwave therapy increases oxygen and nutrient delivery to the area, accelerating healing and reducing inflammation.

• Reduction in pain chemicals – shockwave energy reduces the presence of pain-signalling molecules like substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), which play a role in chronic pain. This leads to less discomfort and inflammation.

• Nerve desensitisation – repeated shockwave pulses modulate nerve activity, reducing sensitivity in pain receptors. This effect can provide lasting relief even for long-standing conditions.

These mechanisms address not just the symptoms but the underlying causes of musculoskeletal pain. That is why shockwave therapy is especially effective for chronic conditions that have not improved with conventional treatments such as rest, stretching, or medication.

What conditions can Shockwave Therapy treat?

Shockwave Therapy is commonly used to manage a range of orthopaedic and soft tissue conditions, including:

• Achilles Tendinopathy
• Calcific Shoulder Tendonitis
• Chronic Neck and Back Pain
• Frozen Shoulder
• Golfer’s Elbow (medial epicondylitis)
• Hip and Hamstring Pain
• Iliotibial (IT) Band Syndrome
• Myofascial Trigger Points
• Tennis Elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
• Patellar Tendonitis (jumper’s knee)
• Plantar FasciItis
• Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
• Shin Splints

What are the benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Pain Management?

Some of the benefits that shockwave therapy offers are:

• Drug-free
• Long-term pain relief for chronic conditions
• Minimal downtime
• Non-invasive
• Quick in-clinic procedure
• Safe alternative to surgery or steroid injections

What can I expect during a Shockwave Therapy session?

Shockwave therapy is designed to be fast, effective, and comfortable with no downtime. Generally, a typical session looks like:

Before the session

Our doctor will first assess your condition, review any relevant scans or clinical findings, and determine if shockwave therapy is appropriate for you. Once confirmed, they will identify and mark specific areas for treatment.

During the session

You will be comfortably positioned, and a conductive gel will be applied to the treatment area to help transmit the acoustic waves. A handheld applicator is then used to deliver a series of controlled pulses directly into the affected tissue.

Patients often describe the sensation as rhythmic tapping or rapid flicking. While the intensity may increase over tender areas, most people tolerate it well without the need for anaesthesia.

After the session

Some patients may feel mild soreness, bruising, or swelling for a day or two after the session. This is a normal response as the body begins to heal.

You can resume your usual activities straight away, although high-impact sports or strenuous exercise may be deferred briefly based on your doctor’s advice.

What results can I expect from Shockwave Therapy for Pain Management?

As the treatment offers both short- and long-term relief, patients have reportedly noticed:

• Better joint or muscle function and increased range of motion
• Gradual tissue repair and long-term healing
• Less need for oral painkillers or anti-inflammatories
• Reduction in pain within the first few days to weeks

However, it should be noted that every person responds to the treatment differently. Long-standing or severe conditions may take longer to improve, but even in these cases, many find relief within the first few sessions.

How many Shockwave Therapy sessions will I need for effective pain management?

Most patients require a course of 3 to 6 sessions, typically spaced one week apart. This is because:

• Milder or newer injuries may respond with fewer treatments
• Chronic or stubborn cases may benefit from a longer treatment plan

Our doctors will tailor the frequency and duration of your therapy based on the diagnosis, severity, and how your body responds to the treatment.

Summary

Chronic pain can interfere with your daily life, mood, sleep, and independence. If you have tried rest, medication, or physiotherapy without lasting relief, it might be time to explore a smarter solution.

At Phoenix Medical Group, we offer evidence-based shockwave therapy for patients struggling with long-standing tendon, joint, or muscle pain. Our approach is:

• Delivered by experienced doctors in pain management and sports medicine
• Designed to fit seamlessly into your recovery or rehabilitation plan
• Non-invasive, drug-free, and tailored to your condition and goals
• Backed by international guidelines for conditions like plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, shoulder calcification, and more

We combine clinical insight with clear communication, so you understand how the treatment works and what to expect. Whether you are managing a sports injury, work-related strain, or persistent joint pain, our team is here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. Book your personalised consultation and start your journey towards lasting relief today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is shockwave therapy painful?
It may feel uncomfortable over sensitive areas, but most patients tolerate it well. The intensity can be adjusted based on your comfort.

Is there any downtime?
No. You can return to work or daily activities immediately after each session.

Are there side effects?
Mild redness, swelling, or bruising may occur temporarily. Serious side effects are very rare when performed correctly.

Who should avoid shockwave therapy?
It may not be suitable if you are pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, or are fitted with certain implants like pacemakers. Our doctor will advise accordingly.

Do I need a referral to start treatment?
No referral is needed. Simply book an appointment for a consultation, and we will assess if shockwave therapy is right for you.

Can I use MediSave for this treatment?
Shockwave therapy is typically not Medisave-claimable unless it is part of a broader chronic disease management plan. Please ask our staff for details.