Persistent tendon or plantar-heel pain can be frustrating, especially when rest alone has not solved the problem. Shockwave therapy for tendon pain is one option that may be considered for selected musculoskeletal conditions after an appropriate assessment at our London, Ontario clinic. It is not a universal treatment for all chronic pain, and it should not replace a clear diagnosis or progressive rehabilitation plan.
What is radial shockwave therapy?
The STORZ Medical shockwave unit used at our clinic.
London Chiropractic & Massage Clinic uses a STORZ Medical MASTERPULS MP50 device to deliver radial pressure waves through a handheld applicator. These mechanical pulses spread into the tissues beneath the treatment area. Radial pressure-wave therapy is often discussed under the broader “shockwave therapy” label, although it differs technically from focused extracorporeal shockwave therapy in how energy is generated and delivered.
Researchers continue to study how shockwave treatment affects pain and tissue response. Proposed mechanisms include mechanical stimulation and changes in local biological signalling, but the exact contribution of each mechanism is not fully settled. The practical question is whether the treatment is suitable for the diagnosed condition and whether it supports a larger rehabilitation plan.
Shockwave therapy for tendon pain: what conditions may be considered?
Depending on the assessment, device, and treatment protocol, shockwave therapy may be considered for conditions such as:
- Plantar heel pain or plantar fasciopathy, sometimes called plantar fasciitis.
- Achilles tendinopathy.
- Patellar tendinopathy.
- Lateral elbow tendinopathy, commonly called tennis elbow.
- Certain shoulder tendon problems, including some cases involving calcific deposits.
Evidence is not equally strong for every condition or protocol. Studies vary in the type of device, energy level, number of sessions, comparison treatment, and patient population. A positive study in one condition does not prove that shockwave therapy is effective for every source of pain.
Not sure whether your condition is on this list? An assessment is the first step. Book an assessment online at our London, Ontario clinic.
What the evidence suggests
Systematic reviews generally suggest that shockwave therapy can improve pain or function for some persistent tendon and plantar-heel conditions, but confidence varies by diagnosis and study quality. Recent reviews also emphasize that radial and focused devices should not be treated as identical interventions. For patients, this means expectations should be condition-specific and realistic rather than based on broad claims about chronic pain.
Shockwave therapy is commonly used alongside education, load management, and progressive exercise. Tendons adapt to appropriate loading over time, so a good plan usually addresses the activities that provoke symptoms and gradually rebuilds the capacity needed for work, sport, and daily life.
What does a shockwave therapy session feel like?
Gel is applied and the handpiece delivers pulses over the target area.
The clinician first reviews your history and examines the area to determine whether shockwave therapy is appropriate. Gel is applied to the skin, and the applicator delivers a series of pulses over the target region. Most people describe tapping, pressure, or temporary discomfort. Intensity can often be adjusted to tolerance while still following the intended protocol.
Treatment itself is usually brief. Temporary soreness, skin redness, bruising, or altered sensation can occur. Your clinician should explain what to expect after the appointment and how to manage activity between sessions.
How many treatments will I need?
There is no single schedule for every diagnosis. Research protocols commonly use a short series of sessions, but the appropriate number and spacing depend on the condition, device, clinical response, and overall rehabilitation plan. Improvement may be gradual rather than immediate. Your progress should be reassessed instead of continuing indefinitely without a clear benefit.
Who should be screened carefully?
Shockwave therapy is not appropriate over every body area or for every patient. Screening is especially important when there may be a fracture, infection, tumour, significant nerve or vascular concern, pregnancy near the treatment area, a bleeding disorder, or medications that affect bleeding. This is not a complete contraindication list. Tell your clinician about your medical history, medications, recent injections, and any changes in symptoms before treatment.
Have questions about whether shockwave therapy is suitable for you? Contact the clinic or book an assessment online and we will review your history first.
Frequently asked questions
Is shockwave therapy painful?
It can feel uncomfortable over a sensitive area, but intensity is generally adjusted within the treatment protocol and your tolerance. Tell the clinician what you are feeling throughout the session.
Is there downtime afterward?
Many people continue their usual day, but temporary soreness can occur. Follow the activity guidance provided for your specific condition, especially if your plan includes progressive tendon loading.
What results can I expect from shockwave therapy?
Results vary from person to person. Shockwave therapy may help selected conditions, but outcomes depend on the diagnosis, duration of symptoms, treatment parameters, activity demands, and the rest of the rehabilitation plan.
Is shockwave therapy covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by plan and by the regulated professional providing the service. Ask the clinic which service category will appear on your receipt and confirm eligibility with your insurer.
Book a shockwave therapy assessment in London Ontario
If persistent tendon or plantar-heel pain is limiting you, learn more about shockwave therapy or book an assessment online. Shockwave therapy is available at the Colborne Street and Wortley Village locations. An assessment is required to determine whether it is an appropriate option for you.