What radial pressure wave (shockwave) therapy is
Radial extracorporeal shockwave therapy, sometimes called shockwave or acoustic wave therapy, delivers focused acoustic pressure waves through the skin to the affected soft tissue. It's aimed at supporting the body's natural recovery process and offering temporary relief from musculoskeletal discomfort. We don't frame it as "treating" a specific named diagnosis, it's a supportive therapy, and improvements, when they occur, tend to build gradually over a series of sessions rather than appear immediately. Results vary by person.
Who it may help
We may discuss radial pressure wave therapy as a supportive option for:
- Knee pain: as part of a broader non-surgical plan
- Shoulder pain: supporting soft-tissue recovery around the joint
What to expect
A session involves applying a handpiece to the affected area, delivering a series of acoustic pulses. Sessions are brief, typically well-tolerated, and don't require anesthesia or downtime. A full course is usually a series of sessions spread out over several weeks, since improvements, when they happen, tend to build gradually rather than all at once. We discuss realistic expectations, including that results vary, before you start.
Frequently asked questions
What is shockwave therapy used for?
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
How many sessions will I need?
Is shockwave therapy the same as a cure for my condition?
Is shockwave therapy right for my knee or shoulder?
Key takeaway: Radial pressure wave (shockwave) therapy delivers acoustic pulses to support soft-tissue recovery and offer temporary relief, most often as part of a broader plan for knee or shoulder pain. Improvements may build gradually over several sessions, and results vary.