ESWT uses high-energy shockwaves to break down calcific deposits in the shoulder tendons and promote healing. It is often used for conditions like calcific tendonitis or chronic tendinopathies when other conservative treatments have failed.
There may be discomfort during the treatment as the shockwaves are delivered to the affected area. Temporary pain or redness may occur at the treatment site after the procedure.
ESWT is effective for breaking down calcium deposits and reducing pain. It is often used before considering surgery for calcific tendonitis and chronic tendinopathies. Many patients experience significant pain relief and improved function.
After undergoing Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), most patients can resume light daily activities almost immediately. In fact, many people return to work the same day, especially if their job doesn’t involve strenuous physical activity. However, it’s generally recommended to avoid high-impact or repetitive activities—such as running, jumping, or heavy lifting—for at least 48 to 72 hours post-treatment. This gives the treated area time to begin the healing process without added strain. If ESWT is being used to treat a chronic tendon issue—like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, or tennis elbow—your doctor may advise modifying activities for a week or more, depending on the severity and your response to treatment. It’s important not to push through pain. While mild soreness is common, significant discomfort may signal the need for further rest or review. Ice and over-the-counter pain relief (if approved by your GP or specialist) may help ease any post-treatment symptoms. Always follow the individualised advice given by your orthopaedic surgeon or physiotherapist. Recovery is often quicker and more effective when post-treatment guidelines are respected. Most patients begin to feel improvement within a few weeks, especially when ESWT is paired with a structured rehab plan.
ESWT is generally well tolerated, but some patients do experience mild to moderate discomfort during the treatment—especially over sensitive or inflamed areas. The sensation is often described as a series of rapid, tapping pulses or sharp thuds. However, the level of discomfort varies depending on the area being treated, the intensity of the shockwaves, and your individual pain threshold. For shoulder conditions like rotator cuff tendinopathy or calcific tendinitis, the treatment may feel more uncomfortable when targeting deeper or more irritated tissues. Fortunately, the procedure is relatively short, usually lasting 5 to 10 minutes, and the intensity can be adjusted by your treating specialist to ensure it's tolerable. Some clinics use a topical numbing gel, though local anaesthetic injections are generally avoided as they may interfere with the body’s healing response. After the session, it’s normal to feel a bit of soreness or aching, similar to post-exercise muscle pain, but this usually settles within a day or two. Most people find the temporary discomfort manageable, and it’s often outweighed by the long-term pain relief and improved function that ESWT can offer. Your specialist will guide you through the process to keep it as comfortable as possible.
Results from Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) aren’t immediate—but that’s normal. Most patients begin to notice an improvement in pain and mobility within 2 to 4 weeks after their first session. The treatment works by stimulating the body’s natural healing response, which takes time to activate and repair damaged tissue. In many cases, noticeable changes occur after the second or third session, especially for conditions like rotator cuff tendinopathy or shoulder bursitis. However, maximum benefits are usually seen 8 to 12 weeks after completing the full course of treatment. Some patients feel a temporary increase in discomfort after the first session—this is usually short-lived and part of the inflammatory healing response triggered by ESWT. It’s important not to judge the effectiveness too early, as the therapy relies on cumulative healing over time. Keep in mind that outcomes are often better when ESWT is combined with targeted physiotherapy, activity modification, and home exercises. Your specialist will guide you through this process and monitor your progress. With patience and adherence to the treatment plan, most people experience meaningful and lasting relief.
Most patients require between 3 to 5 sessions of Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), depending on the severity and duration of their shoulder condition. These sessions are usually spaced about one week apart, giving your body time to respond to the treatment and begin the natural healing process. For mild or more recent issues—like early-stage rotator cuff tendinopathy—3 sessions may be enough to significantly reduce pain and improve function. For more chronic conditions, such as long-standing calcific tendinitis or shoulder bursitis, up to 5 or occasionally 6 sessions may be recommended to achieve optimal results. The number of treatments is tailored to each individual and may also depend on how your body responds after each session. Some people feel improvement quickly, while others may need the full course before noticing a significant change. It’s important to follow your orthopaedic specialist’s guidance throughout the treatment plan. They may also recommend supportive physiotherapy, activity modifications, or home exercises to enhance the effects of ESWT and help prevent symptoms from returning. Regular follow-up ensures your progress is monitored and adjustments can be made if needed.
The relief from Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) can be long-lasting—often several months to years—especially when the underlying condition is appropriately managed. Many patients begin to notice improvement within 2 to 4 weeks after starting treatment, with optimal results typically seen by 8 to 12 weeks post-therapy. This is because ESWT stimulates the body’s natural healing process, which takes time to fully take effect. For conditions like rotator cuff tendinopathy, shoulder bursitis, or calcific tendinitis, studies show that pain reduction and improved function may last well beyond six months, particularly when combined with physiotherapy and activity modification. That said, individual outcomes vary. Some people may require a second round of treatments after several months if symptoms return, especially in chronic or severe cases. Others may achieve full resolution and not need further intervention. Long-term relief also depends on addressing any contributing factors—such as poor posture, overuse, or lack of shoulder strength. Ongoing shoulder rehab and lifestyle adjustments can greatly enhance the durability of ESWT results. It’s best to follow up with your specialist to monitor progress and plan any additional treatment if needed.
Yes, like any medical treatment, Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) can have some side effects—though they are generally mild and temporary. Most patients tolerate the procedure well, and serious complications are rare. Common side effects may include mild pain or discomfort during the procedure, particularly in tender areas, as well as redness, swelling, or bruising at the treatment site. Some people experience soreness or aching for 24 to 48 hours afterward, along with skin sensitivity or tingling where the shockwaves were applied. These effects usually resolve on their own within a few days and are considered a normal part of the body’s healing response. Less commonly, patients might notice small skin abrasions if the device is used with too much pressure. Temporary numbness or a short-term increase in pain can also occur before noticeable improvement sets in. To reduce the risk of complications, ESWT should always be administered by qualified healthcare professionals who understand your medical background. It may not be suitable for individuals with bleeding disorders, those taking blood thinners, people with active infections or tumours in the treatment area, or those who are pregnant. Your specialist will determine if ESWT is appropriate for your specific condition.
Yes, after undergoing Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), it’s important to follow specific activity restrictions to allow your body to heal effectively. While you can typically return to light daily activities—like walking or desk work—soon after treatment, high-impact or strenuous activities should be avoided for at least 48 to 72 hours. This includes running, heavy lifting, or sports that place strain on the treated area. If you're receiving ESWT for a shoulder issue—such as rotator cuff tendinopathy or calcific tendinitis—your doctor may recommend avoiding overhead lifting, repetitive arm motions, or gym workouts that stress the shoulder for a week or more, depending on your response. Importantly, you should not take anti-inflammatory medications (like ibuprofen or naproxen) unless advised by your doctor, as these may counteract the body’s natural healing response triggered by the therapy. Following your specialist’s advice on activity modification and any prescribed physiotherapy is key to achieving the best outcome. Pushing through pain or returning to sport too soon can delay healing or worsen the condition. Your recovery will often progress more smoothly when activity restrictions are respected and gradually eased under professional guidance.