Get Free Consultation

604-755-5517

8:30AM - 7:00PM

  • Home
  • Physiotherapy
  • Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy: Solution for Chronic Pain and Injury Recovery

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy: Solution for Chronic Pain and Injury Recovery

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy
Physiotherapy

August 12, 2025

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) delivers mechanical acoustic pulses to a targeted area. A physiotherapist may consider it for selected persistent tendon or soft-tissue conditions as one part of a rehabilitation program. It is not appropriate for every injury, and evidence differs by condition.

What conditions may be considered?

Depending on the assessment and current evidence, shockwave therapy may be considered for some persistent tendon-related problems, such as plantar heel pain, selected Achilles or patellar tendon symptoms, calcific shoulder tendinopathy, or pain around the outside of the hip. It should not be marketed as a universal treatment for pain or all injuries.
For related care, see our pages on plantar fasciitis, rotator cuff injuries, and hip pain and bursitis.

What happens during treatment?

The clinician identifies the treatment area and explains the proposed dose and expected sensation. The applicator delivers repeated pulses through the skin. Treatment can feel uncomfortable, and intensity may be adjusted. Temporary soreness, redness, bruising, or increased sensitivity may occur.

Shockwave therapy and exercise

Where shockwave is appropriate, it is commonly paired with education, load management, and progressive exercise. The active rehabilitation plan helps build the strength and capacity needed for work, walking, sport, or daily activity. The number of sessions and response vary by diagnosis and individual factors.

Evidence and realistic expectations

Research findings are not the same for every body region or diagnosis. Some conditions have supportive evidence, while others have limited or no published evidence. A responsible recommendation should be based on the specific condition—not on promises of faster healing, immediate relief, or a pain-free outcome.

Who may need a different approach?

Tell your clinician about pregnancy, cancer, infection, bleeding disorders, blood-thinning medication, impaired sensation, recent surgery, implanted devices, or other medical concerns. The physiotherapist should discuss contraindications, alternatives, potential benefits, and risks before obtaining consent.

Book an assessment

Learn more about shockwave therapy or our broader physiotherapy services. To find out whether assessment is appropriate for your symptoms, contact our Abbotsford clinic.

This article provides general information and is not a treatment recommendation for an individual.

Recent Posts

shoulder pain treatment options

September 18, 2026

Painful Shoulder: Common Causes and How Physiotherapy Can Help
Hiking Injuries in the Lower Mainland

August 29, 2026

Hiking Injuries in the Lower Mainland: Physiotherapy & Chiropractic Treatment
post surgical physiotherapy

August 19, 2026

Post-Surgical Physiotherapy After Knee Replacement in Abbotsford | Townline Physiotherapy
wrist pain in tennis elbow

August 10, 2026

Tennis, Pickleball & Golf Elbow and Wrist Injuries: Causes & Symptoms
Repetitive Strain Injuries

July 28, 2026

Physio Jimmy’s Insights: Repetitive Strain Injuries – Why Small Daily Movements Can Lead to Big Problems

Recent Posts

Painful Shoulder: Common Causes and How Physiotherapy Can Help

Painful Shoulder: Common Causes and How Physiotherapy Can Help

Shoulder pain can make surprisingly simple things difficult. Reaching into a cupboard, putting on a...

Read More →
Hiking Injuries in the Lower Mainland: Physiotherapy & Chiropractic Treatment

Hiking Injuries in the Lower Mainland: Physiotherapy & Chiropractic Treatment

The Lower Mainland offers some of British Columbia’s best hiking opportunities. From local trails around...

Read More →
Post-Surgical Physiotherapy After Knee Replacement in Abbotsford | Townline Physiotherapy

Post-Surgical Physiotherapy After Knee Replacement in Abbotsford | Townline Physiotherapy

A total knee replacement (TKR) can significantly improve mobility and quality of life for people...

Read More →

© 2022 - 2026 Townline Physiotherapy

Website Design and Marketed by

Townline Physio Assistant

Here to help you book your appointment

Townline Physiotherapy & Wellness