Targeted Treatment for Stubborn Tendon Pain
Advanced Recovery with Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave Therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic pressure waves to “restart” the healing process in chronic, damaged tendons. It is a highly effective option for persistent conditions that haven’t responded to traditional rest, ice, or standard physiotherapy alone.
At The Whiteley Physiotherapy Centre
At The Whiteley Physiotherapy Centre, our clinicians use Shockwave Therapy not as a “magic wand,” but as a powerful catalyst within a structured rehabilitation plan. By combining this technology with targeted strengthening, we help our patients overcome long-term pain and get back to the activities they love.
Conditions Treated with Shockwave Therapy
Clinical evidence strongly supports the use of Shockwave Therapy for several stubborn soft-tissue conditions, particularly those that have persisted for three months or more:
- Plantar Fasciitis: Intense, chronic heel pain.
- Achilles Tendinopathy: Pain and stiffness at the back of the ankle.
- Tennis Elbow: Persistent pain on the outside of the elbow (lateral epicondylalgia).
- Calcific Shoulder Tendinopathy: Pain caused by calcium deposits in the rotator cuff.
- Patellar Tendinopathy: “Jumper’s Knee” or pain just below the kneecap.
- Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome: Persistent aching on the outside of the hip.
How Shockwave Therapy Works
The shockwave device delivers focused, high-energy acoustic pulses directly to the injured tissue. These pulses serve three primary functions:
Stimulating Healing
They create “micro-trauma” that triggers the body to increase blood flow and cell regeneration in the area.
Pain Modulation
The pulses interfere with pain-signalling nerves, often providing a numbing effect shortly after treatment.
Breaking Down Calcification
In cases of shoulder or heel pain, the waves can help break down painful calcium deposits within the tendon.
Your Treatment Journey
At The Whiteley Physiotherapy Centre, we ensure you are fully informed before any advanced treatment begins.
Practicalities for your visit
- The Initial Screen: Your first appointment includes a full clinical assessment to confirm that Shockwave is the right choice for your specific injury.
- The Procedure: A typical course involves three to six sessions, spaced roughly one week apart. Each treatment session lasts only 10–15 minutes.
- What it feels like: You may feel some discomfort or a “tapping” sensation during the treatment, especially in the first session. Most patients tolerate this very well, and we can adjust the intensity to your comfort level.
- Post-Treatment Care: You can walk out and drive home immediately. We usually advise avoiding high-impact exercise (like running or jumping) for 24 to 48 hours after each session to allow the tissue to respond to the treatment.
Honesty in Recovery
We believe in realistic expectations. Shockwave Therapy is exceptionally good at “quietening” chronic pain, but it does not replace the need for muscle strengthening.
Clinical Note: Think of Shockwave as the “spark plug” that starts the engine. The engine itself (your muscles and tendons) still needs the right fuel—which is a progressive loading programme.
While many patients notice a reduction in pain after just one or two sessions, the actual biological repair of the tendon takes time. To get the “permanent” result you’re looking for, we combine your Shockwave sessions with a bespoke exercise plan. We won’t just treat the symptom; we will ensure your body is strong enough to prevent the pain from returning.
Physiotherapy
Your Treatment Team
- Yves De Vos – Physiotherapist and shockwave therapy (CSP: 54623 | HCPC: PH48182)
- Cameron Hawley – Sports therapist, shockwave therapy, and hydrotherapy (SST: 22983)
Pricing and Appointment
We are recognised by Bupa, AXA PPP, Aviva, WPA, Cigna, and Vitality. Shockwave therapy may be covered by your health insurer. Please check with them before booking.
-
Initial Assessment £79 / 45 minutes
(if you have not been previously assessed for the condition)
-
Shockwave Therapy Session £59 / 30 minutes
(follow-up rate, includes treatment and exercise review)
To book, call 01489 569888 or email info@thewhiteleyphysiocentre.co.uk.
Conveniently Located in Whiteley
Our clinic is at Gull Coppice, Yew Tree Drive, Whiteley, Fareham, Hampshire, PO15 7LS. We serve patients from Whiteley, Fareham, Segensworth, Swanwick, Titchfield, Sarisbury, and Burridge.
Opening hours: Mon 8.30-5.00 / Tue 8.30-8.00 / Wed 8.30-8.00 / Thu 8.30-8.00 / Fri 8.30-6.00
Phone: 01489 569888
Email: info@thewhiteleyphysiocentre.co.uk
Frequently Asked Questions
Is shockwave therapy painful?
How many sessions will I need?
A typical course is three to six sessions, spaced one week apart. Your clinician will advise based on your condition and how you respond.
Are there any side effects?
Mild redness, swelling, or temporary soreness in the treated area is common and usually settles within a day or two. Serious side effects are rare.
Can I exercise after treatment?
You can usually continue with normal activities. Your clinician may advise you to avoid high-impact exercise for 24 to 48 hours after each session.
Is shockwave therapy suitable for everyone?
Shockwave therapy is not suitable for everyone. It is not recommended during pregnancy, for people taking blood-thinning medication, or over areas of infection, tumour, or recent fracture. Your clinician will screen for contraindications before treatment.
What if shockwave therapy does not work for me?
If you do not respond to shockwave therapy, your clinician will discuss alternative options. These may include a revised exercise programme, injection therapy, or onward referral.
Is shockwave therapy covered by insurance?
It may be, depending on your policy. We are recognised by Bupa, AXA PPP, Aviva, WPA, Cigna, and Vitality. Check with your insurer before booking.
How quickly will I see results?
Some patients notice improvement after two to three sessions. For others, the full benefit may not be felt until several weeks after completing the course. Shockwave therapy works by stimulating a healing response, which takes time.
Do I need to have tried other treatments first?
Shockwave therapy is typically recommended for conditions that have persisted for at least three months and have not responded well to exercise, manual therapy, or other conservative treatment.
How do I book?
Call 01489 569888 or email info@thewhiteleyphysiocentre.co.uk.