Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment for long-standing soft-tissue and tendon problems that have not settled with rest, footwear changes or orthotics. It delivers focused acoustic pressure waves into the affected tissue to stimulate the body's own repair response.
What it treats
- Plantar fasciitis and chronic heel pain
- Achilles tendon pain (tendinopathy)
- Other persistent tendon and soft-tissue problems in the foot and lower limb
How it works
A handheld applicator passes pressure waves through the skin into the painful tissue. This increases local blood flow and stimulates repair in areas that have become stuck in a chronic cycle of pain. It is done in clinic, needs no anaesthetic and no incision, and you can walk out and carry on with your day.
The equipment we use
We carry out shockwave therapy in clinic using a medical-grade BTL system. BTL is one of the established makers of shockwave equipment used across podiatry and wider musculoskeletal care, and the unit lets the clinician set the intensity, depth and number of pulses to match your problem and how well you tolerate it. Because the equipment is here, your sessions are done on site as part of your wider treatment plan rather than referred elsewhere.
What to expect
ESWT is usually given as a short course of sessions spaced over a few weeks, alongside the rest of your treatment plan such as stretching, loading exercises and orthotics. Some people feel the area is tender for a short time afterwards, which settles quickly. Your clinician will assess whether ESWT is right for your problem and set out a realistic plan first.
Call 01306 883 332 or book an appointment to find out whether shockwave therapy is right for your pain.
Frequently asked questions.
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
You feel the pulses during treatment and the area can be tender for a short while afterwards, but it needs no anaesthetic and there is no recovery time. Most people tolerate it well.
How many sessions will I need?
It is usually a short course spaced over a few weeks, but it depends on the problem and how you respond. Your clinician sets out a realistic plan once they have assessed it.
Is it suitable for everyone?
Most people with chronic tendon or heel pain can have ESWT, but it is not suitable in some cases. We assess suitability before treating.
What shockwave machine do you use?
We use a medical-grade BTL shockwave system in clinic. The clinician sets the intensity and focus to match your problem, so the treatment is tailored to you rather than a fixed setting.
Our team
Care from named, HCPC-registered specialists.
Every patient is looked after by a named clinician who sees them through from the first assessment to treatment and follow-up, so nothing gets lost between appointments. Get to know the team who will be looking after your feet.
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