Extra-Corporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses focused sound waves (not electric shocks) to target injured tissue, stimulate healing and relieve pain. The acoustic impulses are delivered through the skin directly to the affected area via compressed-air technology.
At Panacea Health, our clinics in London provide ESWT as part of our musculoskeletal specialist services for athletes, active adults and general patients alike.
We use ESWT to treat a broad range of chronic tendon and soft-tissue conditions, including:
Using ESWT at an early stage can help avoid more invasive surgical options, particularly when conservative treatments have not delivered the desired results.
The mechanism of ESWT is two-fold:
At Panacea Health we advise that approximately 70% of patients experience noticeable pain relief within 12-16 weeks following a full course of ESWT.
Individual outcomes vary depending on the type and chronicity of the injury, lifestyle factors and adherence to any recommended follow-up or rehabilitation plan.
Your clinician will review your medical history, perform diagnostics (often imaging or ultrasound), and assess whether ESWT is suitable.
The sound-wave therapy is delivered via a handheld applicator on the affected area. Sessions are brief; rest is generally not required afterwards — patients can return to work or daily activity immediately.
While ESWT initiates the healing process, the best outcomes come when combined with guided exercise, load management and the right movement habits.
We track your response and adjust your plan to optimise results, aiming for sustained relief and return to activity.
Ready to explore non-surgical shockwave treatment for your tendon or soft-tissue injury?
Contact us today to schedule your specialist consultation at our London clinic.
Some discomfort may be felt during the application of shockwaves, but it is typically well tolerated. Some mild ache or redness after the session is possible.
Because ESWT involves no downtime or major surgery, you can normally resume work or daily movement immediately after each session.
Treatment courses depend on the condition’s severity, chronicity and response. We will recommend your course at the assessment stage.
ESWT is considered safe when performed by experienced clinicians, but certain conditions (for example local infection, pacemaker presence, pregnancy) may limit suitability.