Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy (Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy or ESWT) is a non-invasive, evidence-based treatment designed to stimulate healing in chronic, stubborn soft tissue injuries. By delivering high-energy acoustic sound waves directly to targeted tissues, shockwave therapy increases blood flow, breaks down calcification, and restarts the body's natural healing response in non-healing tissues.
It is particularly effective for chronic tendon issues and long-standing conditions that have not responded fully to rest or traditional physiotherapy methods alone.
How to Access Shockwave Therapy at Physio HQ:
Shockwave therapy is available at Physio HQ as an optional add-on during standard physiotherapy appointments. If your treating physiotherapist determines that shockwave therapy is suitable for your stage of recovery, it can be integrated into your session for an additional fee of $40 per session on top of the standard consultation rate.
External Clinic Referrals:
We regularly accept referrals from external physiotherapy clinics and healthcare providers across Auckland. If your current physiotherapist does not offer shockwave treatment, they can refer you to Physio HQ for a targeted course of shockwave therapy. We maintain close communication with your primary physio to update them on your progress throughout care. Want to learn more about the science? Read Physio HQ Senior Physio Jordan's article on Shockwave Therapy: Fast-Tracking Your Recovery to discover how acoustic waves stimulate tissue healing and speed up rehabilitation.
Shockwave therapy is ideal for individuals in Auckland dealing with persistent, long-term tendon pain (lasting longer than 6 to 12 weeks) that has not improved with exercise or rest.
Common Conditions Treated with Shockwave:
Plantar Fasciitis: Heel and arch pain, particularly severe with first steps in the morning
Achilles Tendinopathy: Stiffness and pain in the lower calf and heel tendon
Patellar Tendinopathy: "Jumper's knee" pain located just below the kneecap
Rotator Cuff & Calcific Shoulder Tendinopathy: Shoulder tendon pain and calcium deposits limiting arm movement
Tennis & Golfer's Elbow: Persistent lateral or medial elbow pain from repetitive strain
Gluteal Tendinopathy: Outer hip pain exacerbated by walking, stairs, or lying on your side
Hamstring Tendinopathy: High hamstring pain near the sitting bone
What to Expect at Physio HQ
Assessment & Suitability Check: Your physiotherapist will evaluate your injury, review your medical history, and confirm that shockwave therapy is safe and appropriate for your specific stage of healing.
Targeted Application: A gel is applied to the skin over the affected area to help transmit acoustic waves smoothly. The shockwave applicator is then moved over the treatment area for approximately 5 to 10 minutes.
Sensory Experience: You will feel a rapid tapping sensation. While it can cause mild discomfort in inflamed areas, your physiotherapist adjusts the intensity to ensure it remains manageable throughout.
Progressive Session Course: Shockwave is typically delivered across a series of 3 to 6 sessions spaced one week apart, alongside a tailored rehabilitation exercise plan to support structural tendon rebuilding.