What Is Shockwave Therapy? Benefits, Side Effects & Cost

Table of Contents

1. What Is Shockwave Therapy?
2. What Does Shockwave Therapy Do?
3. How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?
4. Why Is Shockwave Therapy Used?
5. Conditions Treated with Shockwave Therapy
6. Which Injuries Are Treated by Shockwave Therapy?
7. What Happens During a Shockwave Therapy Treatment?
8. Is Shockwave Therapy Painful?
9. Shockwave Therapy Benefits
10. Is Shockwave Therapy Effective?
11. How Long Does Shockwave Therapy Take?
12. How Long Is the Recovery Period from Shockwave Therapy?
13. Are There Any Side Effects of Shockwave Therapy?
14. Can Shockwave Therapy Cause Damage?
15. Who Should Not Undergo Shockwave Therapy?
16. Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You?
17. Shockwave Therapy vs SoftWave Therapy
18. Is Shockwave Therapy Covered by Insurance?
19. How Much Does Shockwave Therapy Cost?
20. Why Choose Clement Chiropractic for Shockwave Therapy in West Des Moines, IA?
21. Frequently Asked Questions About Shockwave Therapy
22. Final Thoughts
23. Author Bio

Millions of people experience chronic pain caused by tendon injuries, repetitive strain, sports injuries, and other musculoskeletal conditions. While medication or surgery may be appropriate in some cases, many patients are looking for non-invasive treatments that support the body's natural healing process. That's why one of the most common questions patients ask is, "What is shockwave therapy?"

Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), has become a popular treatment option for chronic tendon and soft tissue injuries because it may help reduce pain, improve mobility, and stimulate tissue healing without surgery or lengthy recovery times.

At Clement Chiropractic in West Des Moines, IA, Dr. Andrew Clement provides evidence-informed chiropractic care and advanced therapies tailored to each patient's condition and recovery goals. Shockwave therapy may be recommended as part of a personalized treatment plan to help patients return to the activities they enjoy.

In this guide, you'll learn how shockwave therapy works, the conditions it may treat, its potential benefits, possible side effects, recovery time, cost considerations, and how it compares to SoftWave Therapy.
 

What Is Shockwave Therapy?

If you're looking for a non-surgical treatment to relieve chronic pain, heal tendon injuries, or improve recovery from soft tissue damage, you may be asking: what is shockwave therapy?

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate healing in injured muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissues. Also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), this treatment is commonly used for chronic musculoskeletal conditions that have not responded well to rest, physical therapy, or other conservative treatments.

Unlike injections or surgery, shockwave therapy does not involve incisions or general anesthesia. Instead, a handheld device delivers controlled acoustic waves through the skin to the affected area. These sound waves create mechanical stimulation that may encourage the body's natural healing response, helping reduce pain and improve function over time.

Shockwave therapy is not designed to simply mask symptoms. Its primary goal is to promote tissue repair, improve circulation, and support long-term recovery.
 

What Does Shockwave Therapy Do?

A common question patients ask is, what does shockwave therapy do?

Shockwave therapy delivers controlled acoustic energy directly to the injured tissue. This mechanical stimulation may encourage several biological responses that support healing and recovery.

Potential effects of shockwave therapy include:

• Increasing blood circulation to the injured area

• Stimulating the body's natural tissue repair process

• Encouraging collagen production

• Supporting healthy tendon remodeling

• Reducing pain associated with chronic soft tissue injuries

• Improving mobility and physical function

Rather than providing an instant cure, shockwave therapy works by helping the body repair damaged tissue over time. For many patients, it is most effective when combined with chiropractic care, corrective exercises, stretching, and lifestyle modifications.

Because every injury is different, results vary based on factors such as the severity of the condition, overall health, and following your provider's treatment recommendations.

How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?

Understanding how does shockwave therapy work helps patients know what to expect before beginning treatment.

Shockwave therapy uses a specialized handheld device that generates acoustic waves and delivers them into the targeted tissue. As these sound waves pass through the affected area, they create controlled mechanical stress that stimulates biological activity within the tissue.

Research suggests this process may help:

• Improve local blood flow

• Stimulate new blood vessel formation (angiogenesis)

• Encourage collagen production

• Promote cellular repair

• Reduce chronic inflammation

• Decrease pain sensitivity in damaged tissue

Unlike medications that temporarily reduce pain, shockwave therapy focuses on supporting the body's own healing mechanisms.

Healing does not happen overnight. Most patients experience gradual improvement over several weeks as tissues continue repairing after each treatment session.
 

Why Shockwave Therapy Is Used

Many patients ask why shockwave therapy is used instead of injections or surgery.

Healthcare providers often recommend shockwave therapy because it offers a minimally invasive option for chronic tendon and soft tissue conditions that have not improved with conservative care.

Shockwave therapy may be considered before surgery for patients experiencing persistent pain despite treatments such as:

• Rest

• Ice therapy

• Physical therapy

• Anti-inflammatory medications

• Activity modification

• Chiropractic care

The primary goals of shockwave therapy include:

• Reducing chronic pain

• Improving mobility

• Supporting tissue healing

• Helping patients return to normal activities

• Avoiding unnecessary surgical procedures whenever appropriate

Because every patient is different, your healthcare provider will determine whether shockwave therapy is suitable based on your symptoms, medical history, and physical examination.
 

Conditions Treated with Shockwave Therapy

There are many conditions treated with shockwave therapy, particularly chronic musculoskeletal injuries involving tendons, ligaments, and soft tissues.

Common conditions include:

Plantar Fasciitis

Shockwave therapy is frequently used for chronic heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis. It may help stimulate healing within the plantar fascia and reduce discomfort when other treatments have not provided sufficient relief.

Achilles Tendinopathy

The Achilles tendon is subjected to significant stress during walking, running, and sports activities. Shockwave therapy may help improve tendon healing and reduce pain associated with chronic Achilles tendinopathy.

Tennis Elbow

Also called lateral epicondylitis, tennis elbow is a common overuse injury affecting the tendons around the elbow. Shockwave therapy may help reduce pain and improve grip strength.

Golfer's Elbow

Similar to tennis elbow, golfer's elbow affects the tendons on the inside of the elbow. Patients with persistent symptoms may benefit from shockwave therapy as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation plan.

Patellar Tendinopathy

Often referred to as jumper's knee, patellar tendinopathy commonly affects athletes who participate in running and jumping sports. Shockwave therapy may support tendon healing and improve knee function.

Shoulder Calcific Tendinopathy

Calcium deposits within the shoulder tendons can cause significant pain and reduced mobility. Shockwave therapy may help break down calcifications while promoting healing of the surrounding tissue.

Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome

Pain on the outside of the hip is often related to tendon irritation around the greater trochanter. Shockwave therapy may help decrease pain and improve mobility in appropriate patients.

Other Chronic Muscle and Tendon Injuries

Depending on your diagnosis, shockwave therapy may also be considered for:

• Rotator cuff tendinopathy

• Hamstring tendinopathy

• Shin splints

• Chronic calf strains

• Hip tendon injuries

• Sports-related overuse injuries

• Other persistent soft tissue conditions

A comprehensive evaluation is essential to determine whether shockwave therapy is the right treatment for your specific condition.
 

Which Injuries Are Treated by Shockwave Therapy?

Patients often ask, which injuries are treated by shockwave therapy?

Shockwave therapy is primarily recommended for chronic overuse injuries that have lasted for several weeks or months and have not improved with conservative care.

These injuries often develop gradually due to repetitive stress rather than a single traumatic event.

Examples include:

• Chronic tendon injuries

• Running-related injuries

• Sports overuse injuries

• Repetitive workplace injuries

• Chronic ligament irritation

• Long-standing soft tissue pain

Shockwave therapy is generally not considered the first treatment option for acute injuries such as fresh muscle tears, fractures, or severe ligament injuries. Your provider will determine whether your condition is appropriate based on your symptoms, examination findings, and imaging if necessary.

What Happens During a Shockwave Therapy Treatment?

Knowing what happens during a shockwave therapy treatment can help you feel more confident before your appointment.
A typical treatment session begins with a thorough assessment to identify the exact location of your pain and determine the most appropriate treatment area.

Step 1: Evaluation

Your chiropractor or healthcare provider reviews your symptoms, medical history, physical examination findings, and any imaging studies if available.

Step 2: Treatment Preparation

A conductive gel is applied to the skin to improve the transmission of acoustic waves into the affected tissue.

Step 3: Shockwave Therapy

A handheld device is placed over the treatment area and delivers a series of controlled acoustic pulses.

During treatment, you may notice:

• Tapping sensations

• Mild pressure

• Temporary discomfort over sensitive tissues

Your provider can adjust the treatment intensity to improve comfort while maintaining effectiveness.

Step 4: After Treatment

Most sessions last 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the condition being treated.

Many patients can return to their normal daily activities immediately after treatment, although your provider may recommend temporarily avoiding strenuous exercise involving the treated area.

Most treatment plans include three to six sessions, spaced over several weeks, to support the body's natural healing process and achieve the best possible outcome.
 

Is Shockwave Therapy Painful?

One of the most common concerns patients have is: Is shockwave therapy painful?

The answer depends on the condition being treated, the severity of the injury, and your individual pain tolerance. During treatment, the acoustic waves stimulate injured tissues, so it's normal to feel mild to moderate discomfort, especially over areas that are inflamed or have been painful for a long time.

Most patients describe the sensation as:

• A tapping or pulsing feeling

• Mild pressure on the injured area

• Temporary discomfort that decreases as treatment continues

The good news is that the discomfort typically lasts only during the treatment session and fades shortly afterward. Your provider can adjust the intensity of the shockwaves to make the treatment as comfortable as possible while still delivering effective results.

Many patients find that each session becomes easier as their pain decreases and healing progresses.
 

Shockwave Therapy Benefits

There are many shockwave therapy benefits for patients dealing with chronic musculoskeletal pain and tendon injuries. Because the treatment stimulates the body's natural healing response, it addresses the underlying condition rather than simply masking symptoms.

Potential benefits include:

• Reduced chronic pain

• Improved blood circulation

• Enhanced tissue healing

• Increased collagen production

• Better flexibility and joint mobility

• Faster recovery from chronic tendon injuries

• Reduced inflammation

• Improved athletic performance after recovery

• Non-surgical treatment option

• No incisions or stitches

• Little to no downtime

• Quick in-office treatment sessions

Many healthcare providers combine shockwave therapy with chiropractic adjustments, rehabilitation exercises, stretching programs, and lifestyle recommendations to help patients achieve the best long-term outcomes.

Individual results vary depending on your diagnosis, the severity of the injury, and how closely you follow your treatment plan.

Is Shockwave Therapy Effective?

A frequently asked question is, is shockwave therapy effective?

Clinical research suggests that shockwave therapy can be an effective treatment for several chronic musculoskeletal conditions, particularly those involving tendons and connective tissues.

Studies have shown positive outcomes for conditions such as:

• Chronic plantar fasciitis

• Tennis elbow

• Achilles tendinopathy

• Patellar tendinopathy

• Calcific shoulder tendinopathy

Many patients report:

• Less pain

• Improved mobility

• Better function

• Faster return to daily activities

• Reduced reliance on pain medications

However, no treatment works for everyone. Success depends on several factors, including:

• Accurate diagnosis

• Severity of the condition

• Duration of symptoms

• Overall health

• Following post-treatment recommendations

• Combining therapy with rehabilitation when appropriate

Your chiropractor or healthcare provider will determine whether shockwave therapy is likely to benefit your specific condition.
 

How Long Does Shockwave Therapy Take?

Patients often ask, how long does shockwave therapy take?

One of the advantages of shockwave therapy is that treatment sessions are relatively short.

Here's what you can typically expect:

• Initial evaluation: 20–30 minutes

• Treatment session: 10–20 minutes

• Total appointment time: 20–40 minutes

Most treatment plans involve three to six sessions, depending on:

• The type of injury

• Severity of symptoms

• Healing response

• Your provider's clinical recommendations

Some chronic conditions may require additional treatments for optimal results.
 

How Long Is the Recovery Period from Shockwave Therapy?

Another common question is, how long is the recovery period from shockwave therapy?

Unlike surgery, shockwave therapy requires very little recovery time.

Most patients can:

• Return to work the same day

• Walk normally after treatment

• Resume light daily activities immediately

However, your provider may recommend avoiding:

• Heavy lifting

• Running

• Jumping

• High-impact sports

• Intense exercise involving the treated area

for 24 to 72 hours after treatment to allow the healing process to continue.

Healing occurs gradually, so many patients notice continued improvement over several weeks or even months following their final treatment session.
 

Are There Any Side Effects of Shockwave Therapy?

Patients frequently ask, are there any side effects of shockwave therapy?

Shockwave therapy is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified healthcare professional. Most side effects are mild, temporary, and resolve without additional treatment.

Common side effects may include:

• Mild soreness

• Temporary redness

• Minor swelling

• Bruising

• Tenderness around the treatment area

• Temporary sensitivity for one or two days

These reactions are often a normal part of the body's healing response.

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience severe pain, prolonged swelling, or symptoms that concern you after treatment.
 

Can Shockwave Therapy Cause Damage?

Many people wonder, can shockwave therapy cause damage?

When performed correctly by an experienced healthcare provider, shockwave therapy is considered a safe and well-established treatment for many chronic musculoskeletal conditions.

Serious complications are rare because the treatment is:

• Non-invasive

• Drug-free

• Performed without surgery

• Carefully adjusted based on your condition

To minimize risks, your provider will evaluate:

• Your medical history

• Current medications

• Existing health conditions

• The exact location of your injury

Following your chiropractor's aftercare instructions can further reduce the likelihood of unwanted side effects and help optimize healing.
 

Who Should Not Undergo Shockwave Therapy?

Although shockwave therapy is appropriate for many patients, it is not suitable for everyone.

Your provider may recommend avoiding treatment if you:

• Are pregnant

• Have an active infection near the treatment area

• Have certain bleeding disorders

• Take certain blood-thinning medications

• Have cancer affecting the treatment area

• Have open wounds where treatment would be performed

• Have certain nerve or vascular disorders

• Are still growing and have open growth plates (in some cases)

A comprehensive examination is essential to determine whether shockwave therapy is safe for your individual health needs.
 

Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You?

If you've been asking yourself, is shockwave therapy right for you, the answer depends on your diagnosis and overall health.

You may be a good candidate if you:

• Have chronic tendon or ligament pain

• Have not improved with rest or physical therapy

• Want to avoid surgery if possible

• Are looking for a non-invasive treatment option

• Have ongoing heel, shoulder, elbow, knee, or Achilles pain

• Want to improve mobility and function

The best way to determine whether shockwave therapy is appropriate is to schedule an evaluation with an experienced chiropractor or healthcare provider.

A personalized assessment allows your provider to identify the underlying cause of your pain and recommend the treatment plan that's most likely to help you recover.
 

Shockwave Therapy vs SoftWave Therapy

Many patients researching regenerative treatments compare Shockwave Therapy vs SoftWave Therapy. While both therapies use acoustic wave technology to support healing, they differ in how energy is generated, delivered, and applied.

Both therapies can be valuable treatment options. The right choice depends on your condition, symptoms, and your provider's recommendation after a comprehensive evaluation.
 

Is Shockwave Therapy Covered by Insurance?

One of the most frequently asked questions is, is shockwave therapy covered by insurance?

Insurance coverage varies depending on your insurance provider, health plan, location, and the condition being treated. While some insurance companies may cover shockwave therapy for specific medical conditions, others may consider it an elective or investigational treatment.

Coverage often depends on:

• Your diagnosis

• Medical necessity

• Your insurance policy

• Whether conservative treatments have already been attempted

• Your healthcare provider's documentation

Before beginning treatment, it's always a good idea to contact your insurance provider or speak with your chiropractic office to verify your benefits and determine whether any out-of-pocket costs apply.
 

How Much Does Shockwave Therapy Cost?

Another common question is, how much does shockwave therapy cost?

The cost of shockwave therapy varies based on several factors, including:

• Your geographic location

• The provider's experience

• The condition being treated

• The number of sessions required

• Whether insurance covers part of the treatment

Since every patient has different needs, there isn't a one-size-fits-all price. Some patients require only a few treatments, while others may benefit from a longer treatment plan for chronic conditions.

The best way to receive an accurate estimate is to schedule a consultation, where your provider can evaluate your condition and recommend a personalized treatment plan.

 

Why Choose Clement Chiropractic for Shockwave Therapy in West Des Moines, IA?

If you're searching for an experienced chiropractor in West Des Moines, IA offering advanced, non-surgical pain relief, Clement Chiropractic provides personalized treatment plans designed to help patients recover naturally.

Dr. Andrew Clement combines modern chiropractic techniques with evidence-based therapies to address the underlying cause of pain—not just the symptoms. Depending on your condition, shockwave therapy may be combined with chiropractic adjustments, spinal decompression, SoftWave Therapy, or Red Light Therapy to support faster healing and long-term recovery.

Patients choose Clement Chiropractic because we offer:

• Personalized treatment plans

• Advanced non-invasive therapies

• Experienced chiropractic care

• Modern diagnostic approach

• Comfortable treatment environment

• Focus on long-term wellness—not temporary pain relief

Whether you're dealing with plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, Achilles tendinitis, shoulder pain, chronic tendon injuries, or other musculoskeletal conditions, our goal is to help you move better, feel better, and return to the activities you enjoy.
 

Services

• Chiropractic Adjustments
• Spinal Decompression
• SoftWave Therapy
• Red Light Therapy

Location: Clement Chiropractic - West Des Moines, IA
Website: Chiropractor in west des moines, Ia
Phone: +1 515-224-9000
 

Frequently Asked Questions About Shockwave Therapy

Can I return to work after shockwave therapy?

Yes. Most patients return to work and normal daily activities immediately after treatment. However, your provider may recommend avoiding strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for a short period, depending on the treated area.

How many shockwave therapy sessions will I need?

Most patients benefit from three to six treatment sessions, although the exact number depends on your condition, symptom severity, and how your body responds to therapy.

Does everyone benefit from shockwave therapy?

No. While many patients experience meaningful pain relief and improved function, treatment outcomes vary. A proper diagnosis and individualized treatment plan are essential for achieving the best results.

When will I notice results?

Some patients notice improvement after the first or second treatment, while others experience gradual progress over several weeks as the body's natural healing response continues.

Can shockwave therapy be combined with chiropractic care?

Yes. Many chiropractors combine shockwave therapy with chiropractic adjustments, corrective exercises, spinal decompression, and other conservative treatments to improve overall outcomes.

Is shockwave therapy a replacement for surgery?

Not always. Shockwave therapy is often recommended before considering surgery for certain chronic tendon conditions, but it is not appropriate for every injury. Your provider will determine the most suitable treatment based on your diagnosis.
 

Final Thoughts

If you've been wondering what is shockwave therapy, it's important to understand that this treatment is designed to support your body's natural healing process—not simply provide temporary pain relief.

For many people living with chronic tendon injuries, heel pain, elbow pain, shoulder pain, or other musculoskeletal conditions, shockwave therapy offers a non-invasive option that may help reduce pain, improve mobility, and promote long-term tissue healing without surgery or extended downtime.

Because every patient is unique, the most effective treatment begins with a comprehensive evaluation. A qualified chiropractor can determine whether shockwave therapy is appropriate for your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan that supports your recovery goals.

If chronic pain is keeping you from doing the things you love, professional evaluation and early treatment can help you get back to living an active, healthy lifestyle.
 

Author Bio

Dr. Andrew Clement

Dr. Andrew Clement is a Des Moines native and the founder of Clement Chiropractic in West Des Moines, Iowa. With more than 15 years of clinical experience, he has helped thousands of patients find lasting relief from back pain, neck pain, sports injuries, chronic joint conditions, and other musculoskeletal disorders.

After earning his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Northwestern Health Sciences University, Dr. Clement built his practice around honest communication, personalized care, and evidence-informed treatment. His approach focuses on restoring proper nervous system function through gentle chiropractic adjustments while incorporating advanced therapies such as spinal decompression, SoftWave Therapy, and Red Light Therapy when appropriate.

Dr. Clement is committed to helping every patient improve mobility, relieve pain naturally, and maintain a healthier, more active lifestyle through individualized chiropractic care.