Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) uses high-energy acoustic pressure waves delivered to injured tissue through a handheld applicator. Originally developed to break down kidney stones, it is now a leading evidence-based intervention for chronic musculoskeletal pain — particularly in tendons, fascia and periosteal structures that have failed to respond to conventional physiotherapy or rest.
At The Functional Podiatrist we use Storz Medical radial and focused shockwave devices, giving us the flexibility to target both superficial and deep tissue pathologies with precision. Sessions take 10–15 minutes and are delivered as part of your wider management plan — not in isolation.
Acoustic waves trigger a cascade of biological responses that promote genuine tissue repair, not just symptom suppression.
Increased Blood Flow
Stimulates angiogenesis and localised hyperaemia, delivering nutrients and oxygen to chronically hypovascular tissue such as tendon.
Collagen Synthesis
Activates fibroblasts and tenocytes to produce new collagen, reversing the degenerative changes seen in chronic tendinopathy and plantar fasciosis.
Calcium Breakdown
Mechanically disrupts calcific deposits in calcific Achilles tendinopathy and heel spurs, allowing resorption and reducing the source of pain.
Pain Desensitisation
Reduces substance P and inhibits nociceptors at the treatment site, providing both immediate relief and cumulative reduction in chronic pain.
Shockwave is most effective for chronic, treatment-resistant conditions of the foot, ankle and lower limb — typically those that have not responded adequately to rest, stretching or conventional physiotherapy over 3+ months.
Plantar fasciitis — reducing fascial inflammation and chronic pain
Achilles tendinopathy — mid-portion and insertional presentations
Heel spurs — breaking down calcific deposits at the calcaneus
Peroneal tendinopathy — lateral ankle tendon pain
Morton's neuroma — reducing interdigital nerve inflammation
Metatarsalgia — forefoot loading pain
Shin splints / MTSS — periosteal stress response
Patellar tendinopathy — knee tendon rehabilitation
Sesamoiditis — first MTP joint sesamoid pain
Bursitis — reduction of bursal inflammation
Myofascial trigger points — calf and plantar fascial tightness
Stress fractures — accelerating periosteal bone healing
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Non-invasive. No surgery, no needles. Treatment is applied through the skin with gel — you walk in and walk out.
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Clinically proven. Multiple RCTs demonstrate 70–80% success rates in chronic plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy unresponsive to other care.
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Fast protocol. Most patients complete 3–6 sessions spaced one week apart. Meaningful improvement is often reported after session 2 or 3.
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Minimal side effects. Temporary local soreness for 24–48 hours is the most common response. Serious adverse events are rare.
Shockwave is always delivered as part of a comprehensive assessment and rehabilitation plan — not as a standalone procedure. Your podiatrist will confirm suitability at your initial consultation before any treatment begins.
Session 1
Assessment & first treatment
Full clinical and biomechanical assessment to confirm shockwave suitability, followed by the first treatment session.
Sessions 2 – 5
Weekly treatments
Weekly shockwave sessions of 10–15 minutes, combined with a structured loading and exercise programme between appointments.
Final review
Reassessment & discharge
Clinical review at completion. Most patients are discharged with a self-management plan and return only if needed.
Shockwave is contraindicated in pregnancy, over active bone tumours, near open growth plates in children, over active infections or open wounds, and in patients with bleeding disorders or taking anticoagulant medication.
Patients with pacemakers, nerve damage in the treatment area, or a recent corticosteroid injection (within 6 weeks) should discuss this with their podiatrist before proceeding. Your clinician will screen for all relevant contraindications at the initial consultation.
Is shockwave therapy painful?
Most patients describe a firm tapping or buzzing sensation — similar to a deep tissue massage at its most intense. Some discomfort is expected and indicates we are working on the target tissue. Post-treatment soreness for 24–48 hours is common and a sign the tissue is responding. Intensity is always adjusted to keep treatment tolerable.
How many sessions will I need?
Most conditions respond to 3–6 sessions spaced 5–7 days apart. Plantar fasciitis typically requires 3–5 sessions; insertional Achilles tendinopathy may need up to 6. Your podiatrist will review your response after session 3 and adjust accordingly.
Can I exercise between sessions?
Yes — with appropriate modifications. We generally advise reducing high-impact load for 24–48 hours after each session. A structured loading programme continues between sessions; rest is not required and is often counterproductive.
What's the difference between radial and focused shockwave?
Radial shockwave delivers pressure waves that diverge from the applicator — ideal for superficial, widespread tissue like plantar fascia and calf trigger points. Focused shockwave concentrates energy to a precise depth, making it more effective for deeper structures like the mid-Achilles. We use both devices depending on your diagnosis.
Is shockwave covered by my health insurance?
Coverage varies by insurer and policy. We are recognised by BUPA, Vitality, AXA PPP, Cigna, AVIVA, WPA and Simply Health. We recommend calling your insurer before booking to confirm your policy covers shockwave therapy specifically — our team can provide procedure codes if needed.
Ready to book your consultation?
We'll assess whether shockwave is right for your condition and build a plan to get you back to full activity.
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