If you are looking into shockwave therapy, chances are you are dealing with pain that keeps coming back.
Heel pain.
Achilles pain.
Tennis elbow.
Hip pain.
The type that flares up when you walk, run, train, or even get out of bed in the morning. (If that sounds familiar, you may also find it helpful to understand why pain can return and how we approach it here.)
At The Body Reset Clinic, based in Hartley Wintney, Hampshire, we use shockwave therapy (ESWT) to help calm pain and stimulate tissue repair when symptoms have become persistent. It is non-surgical. It is evidence-based. And it can be a very effective add-on when rehab has stalled.
What is shockwave therapy?
Shockwave therapy is also called Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT).
It is a non-invasive treatment that delivers pulses of acoustic energy through the skin into the irritated tissue.
In simple terms, it is designed to prompt a change in a tissue that has stopped responding to rest, stretching, and time.
Why people choose it
Most people come to us for shockwave therapy because they simply want to get back to doing something they love, and have ongoing pain getting in the way.
Walking without wincing.
Running without flare-ups.
Sleeping without being kept awake by a nagging tendon.
Training with confidence again.
We can help by supporting deep tissue regeneration, reducing pain, and improving mobility, without injections or surgery.
How does shockwave therapy work?
Shockwave uses mechanical sound waves.
These waves can help in two main ways.
First, they can help desensitise irritated nerve endings.
Second, they create controlled micro-trauma in the tissue. Tiny, targeted stress that encourages your body to respond.
Common responses include reduced pain, improved circulation, increased cell activity linked to healing, and breakdown of disorganised tissue and some calcification.
What injuries does shockwave therapy treat?
It is often used for persistent tendon and soft tissue conditions.
At The Body Reset Clinic, we commonly use it for:
- Plantar fasciitis (heel pain).
- Achilles tendinopathy (insertional and mid-portion).
- Patellar tendinopathy (jumper’s knee).
- Hip bursitis.
- Proximal hamstring tendinopathy.
- Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow.
- Rotator cuff tendinopathy (calcific and non-calcific).
- Bicipital tendinitis or tendinopathy.
Not sure what you are dealing with? That’s ok, we make sure we give you the right diagnosis first when you come in for an initial assessment.
What to expect at your appointment with us in Hartley Wintney
Your shockwave therapy at The Body Reset Clinic is delivered using the EMS 560 Radial Shockwave Unit, manufactured in the UK.
Here is what happens.
- We apply a water-based gel to the skin.
- This helps the energy transfer properly into the tissues.
- Your therapist uses a hand-held device and moves the probe slowly over the area.
- You will hear the clicking sound as the pulses are delivered.
- We adjust the intensity to keep it manageable.
Each session lasts up to 15 minutes.
What does shockwave therapy feel like?
You will feel a fast tapping sensation.
Some discomfort is normal. We start gently.
We build intensity to a level you can tolerate.
Your therapist is there to ensure you are completely happy and will adjust throughout.
How many sessions do you need?
Most people need a short course.
A typical plan is four to six sessions, usually one week apart.
We then review progress after a period of time, so your body can adapt and we can measure change.
We will give you honest guidance, and if shockwave is not the right fit, we will tell you.
What should I do after shockwave therapy?
Most people feel a little bit sore for up to 48 hours, which is common.
Keep activity light for a day or two. Avoid heavy training straight after treatment.
If your problem is impact-related, we often advise avoiding hard running or jumping for 48 hours.
Then we build back up gradually, based on your symptoms.
We will tell you exactly what is sensible for your injury and your sport.
Does shockwave therapy hurt and is it safe?
Shockwave is not sensation-free, so you may feel some discomfort during treatment, as well as a little sore for a couple of days afterwards. However your therapists will work without and ensure you are comfortable with the level throughout.
It is widely used and generally well tolerated.
Most side effects are mild and short-lived, such as temporary soreness or skin irritation. Screening is the most important part.
Who is it not suitable for?
it may not be suitable if any of the following apply:
- Steroid injection within the last 6 weeks.
- Tumours at the treatment site.
- Blood clotting disorders, including thrombosis or active DVT.
- Oral anti-coagulants.
- Pacemaker fitted.
- Impaired cognition or communication.
- Infection or skin abrasion at the treatment site.
- Treatment over air-filled areas such as lungs or guts.
If you are unsure, we will check this with you before treatment.
Why shockwave therapy works best with the right rehab plan
Shockwave therapy can reduce pain and stimulate a tissue response, however it does not replace good physiotherapy.
Long-term results usually come from combining shockwave therapy with:
- A clear diagnosis.
- The right loading plan for the tendon.
- Strength work where needed.
- Return to sport or return to running guidance.
We use shockwave therapy as part of a bigger plan, not as a standalone quick fix.
Ready to find out if shockwave therapy is right for you?
If you would like to find out whether shockwave therapy is right for you, the best place to start is with booking an assessment.
You can also visit our Shockwave Therapy page.
If you cannot find a slot that suits you or have any further questions, call our reception team on 01252 843 203. Our friendly staff are always happy to help.