Shockwave Therapy Nottingham
Shockwave Therapy in Nottingham
Shockwave therapy at Nottingham Physio is offered after clinical assessment for selected persistent tendon problems. Where appropriate, treatment is delivered by an appropriately trained clinician and combined with exercise, education and rehabilitation. Suitability and expected benefit vary by condition.
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What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic waves and may be considered for some persistent tendon and musculoskeletal conditions. At Nottingham Physio, suitability is assessed individually and shockwave may form one part of a broader rehabilitation plan. Outcomes vary according to the condition, the individual and the wider treatment approach.
How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?
Shockwave therapy applies acoustic waves to the affected area. It may influence local tissue responses and pain, but individual outcomes vary. Your clinician will explain the available options, likely benefits, potential side effects and how shockwave could fit alongside exercise and rehabilitation.
Why Use Shockwave Therapy?
Potential Pain Reduction
May reduce pain for some people with selected persistent tendon conditions; individual benefits vary.
Non-Invasive Treatment
No surgery or injection is involved, although temporary soreness and other side effects can occur.
Support for Rehabilitation
May be used alongside progressive exercise, education and load management where clinically appropriate.
Evidence Varies by Condition
Research findings and NICE guidance differ by condition, so suitability and expected benefit are discussed during assessment.
What Can Shockwave Therapy Help With?
Plantar Fasciitis
For persistent plantar heel pain that has not improved with usual care, shockwave may be considered after assessment. Evidence on effectiveness is inconsistent and benefit is not guaranteed.
Tennis Elbow
Shockwave may be considered for persistent lateral elbow tendinopathy after assessment. NICE reports inconsistent evidence on effectiveness, so expected benefits, uncertainties and alternatives should be discussed.
Hip Pain
Shockwave may be considered for persistent greater trochanteric pain syndrome (lateral hip pain). Evidence is limited and suitability should be assessed individually.
Achilles Tendinopathy
Shockwave may be considered for persistent Achilles tendinopathy as part of a wider rehabilitation plan. Evidence is inconsistent and rare tendon rupture has been reported.
Patellar Tendinopathy (Jumper’s Knee)
Shockwave may be considered for selected persistent patellar tendon problems after assessment. Evidence and the appropriate treatment plan vary between individuals.
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
Shoulder pain and stiffness have several possible causes. Shockwave is not suitable for every diagnosis, so a clinical assessment is required before it is considered.
Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome)
Shockwave may be considered for selected persistent lower-leg symptoms only after assessment and after other possible causes of pain have been considered.
Calcific Shoulder Tendonitis
For calcific shoulder tendinopathy, NICE recommends shockwave only in research because evidence of effectiveness is inadequate. It should not be presented as a routine treatment option.
Getting More From Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy may be one useful part of rehabilitation, but it is not the whole plan. We combine appropriate treatment with progressive exercise, practical advice and a clear understanding of your condition so you can make informed decisions about recovery.
01
Shockwave
Shockwave therapy applies acoustic waves to the affected area. It may influence pain and local tissue responses for selected conditions, but the precise mechanisms and individual benefits vary.
02
Exercise
Exercise will play an integral role in the overall treatment of your condition. Regular physical activity not only enhances strength & overall fitness, but also contributes to improved mental well-being.
03
Education
Education is your competitive advantage. We will empower you with insights into your condition, give you practical advice for daily living adjustments, & a deeper understanding of the healing process.
Could Shockwave Therapy Be Appropriate for You?
Shockwave therapy may be considered for some persistent tendon problems that have not improved with an appropriate period of usual care. It is not automatically the right treatment for chronic pain, and it does not replace a clear diagnosis or rehabilitation plan.
Your clinician will screen for reasons treatment may be unsuitable or need extra caution. Tell us before treatment if you are pregnant, take anticoagulant medication, have a bleeding or clotting disorder, infection, altered sensation, a tumour in the treatment area, a pacemaker or other implanted device, or have recently had a steroid injection. This is not an exhaustive list; suitability is confirmed during assessment.
FAQs
Is shockwave therapy painful?
Shockwave can feel uncomfortable and the intensity can usually be adjusted during treatment. Temporary soreness afterwards is possible, and individual tolerance varies.
How many sessions will I need?
The number and spacing of sessions depend on the condition and your individual response. Your clinician will discuss an appropriate plan following assessment.
Are there any side effects?
Possible short-term effects include pain or soreness, redness, bruising, swelling, numbness or tingling, and skin irritation. Rarely, tendon or plantar-fascia rupture or other soft-tissue injury has been reported. Your clinician will explain risks relevant to your condition before treatment.
How soon will I feel results?
Some people notice a change sooner, while any meaningful benefit may take several weeks. Response varies by condition and individual, and improvement is not guaranteed.
Can I resume my usual activities after treatment?
Aftercare depends on the area treated and your response. Your clinician will explain whether temporary activity modification is appropriate and how to continue your rehabilitation safely.
Evidence, suitability and patient guidance
Shockwave therapy is considered after clinical assessment for selected persistent tendon and musculoskeletal problems. Evidence, risks and expected benefit differ by condition, and improvement is not guaranteed. Where it is appropriate, treatment is combined with exercise, education and rehabilitation rather than offered as a stand-alone cure.
What happens at your appointment?
- Your clinician assesses the problem, your health history and what you have already tried.
- If shockwave is clinically appropriate, they explain the potential benefits, uncertainties and risks before treatment.
- You receive practical rehabilitation advice so the treatment fits into a wider recovery plan.
The booking portal shows current appointment types, clinicians and fees. Please check the clinician and fee displayed before confirming your booking.
What does current guidance say?
NICE guidance varies by condition. These independent sources explain the evidence and precautions in more detail:
Shockwave therapy guides
Visiting Nottingham Physio
Shockwave therapy is delivered face to face at Nottingham Physio, Everlast+ Gyms, 442 Wilford Lane, Nottingham NG2 7RN. The clinic is accessible from Nottingham, West Bridgford, Beeston and Long Eaton, and may also be convenient for patients travelling from Loughborough, Derby, Mansfield, Newark and Leicester. Travel time will vary, so please check your route before booking.