Shockwave therapy at Tunbridge Wells Hospital

What is shockwave therapy?

Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment used to help relieve pain and support healing fof a range of common musculoskeletal and sports-related injuries.

This treatment delivers controlled pulses of energy to injured tissues. These shockwaves pass through the skin and target damaged tendons, muscles, and other soft tissues, stimulating blood flow and encouraging the body's natural healing processes. This can help reduce pain, improve function, and support tissue repair.

Shockwave therapy is an effective treatment option for a variety of conditions, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Shoulder pain
• Tennis elbow
• Golfer's elbow
• Achilles Tendonopathy
• Trochanteric bursitis (Lateral hip pain)

For the best outcomes, shockwave therapy is often combined with a tailored physiotherapy programme, including exercise, stretching, and rehabilitation techniques.

What happens during shockwave therapy?

Your physiotherapist will carry out an assessment to identify the precise area requiring treatment. A conductive gel is then applied to the skin to help transmit the shockwaves effectively.

A handheld device is placed against the affected area and delivers a series of pulses through the skin into the underlying tissue. These radial shockwaves stimulate a healing response by increasing blood circulation, promoting the formation of new blood vessels, and enhancing cellular activity within the injured tissue.

Most patients describe the treatment as mildly uncomfortable rather than painful. The intensity is usually started at a lower level and adjusted throughout the session to ensure your comfort.

Shockwave therapy is performed in an outpatient setting and does not require anaesthesia or sedation.

Treatment is typically delivered once a week, with each session lasting around 20 minutes. Most patients require 3–6 sessions, with progress usually reviewed after the first three treatments.

After shockwave therapy

You can return to normal daily activities and walking immediately after treatment. However, it is advisable to avoid strenuous exercise or placing excessive strain on the treated area for 48–72 hours.

Your physiotherapist will provide guidance on appropriate exercises and stretches to support your recovery. While some patients notice an improvement in symptoms shortly after treatment, others may take several weeks to experience the full benefits.

It is common to experience mild side effects, including:

• Temporary redness of the skin
• Mild swelling around the treated area
• A short-term increase in discomfort or pain

These effects are usually temporary and settle within a few days. As healing continues, improvements in pain and function typically develop over several weeks.

How to book shockwave therapy at Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital?

To find out more about shockwave therapy or to book an appointment with one of our experienced physiotherapists, please call 0345 045 4845. Our physiotherapy team will be happy to discuss your symptoms and advise whether shockwave therapy may be suitable for you.