What is Shockwave Therapy? What is it Used For?

Shockwave therapy is an innovative, non-invasive treatment that has gained increasing attention in the world of musculoskeletal health. Originally developed in the 1980s to break down kidney stones, shockwave therapy has since evolved into an evidence-based tool for treating a variety of soft tissue and musculoskeletal conditions. In chiropractic and rehabilitative settings, it is often used to help patients who struggle with persistent pain or injuries that have not responded well to traditional therapies.

How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?

Shockwave therapy uses acoustic sound waves that are transmitted into the body’s tissues. These waves create controlled microtrauma in the targeted area, which stimulates the body’s natural healing response.

Research suggests that shockwave therapy may:

Increase blood flow to injured tissues
Stimulate collagen production for tendon and ligament repair
Break down calcifications or scar tissue
Modulate pain signals and reduce chronic pain

Unlike medications or injections, shockwave therapy addresses the underlying tissue dysfunction, not just the symptoms.

What Conditions Can Shockwave Therapy Help With?

Clinical studies support the use of shockwave therapy for several common musculoskeletal problems, particularly those involving tendons and chronic soft tissue pain. Some of the most well-researched applications include:

Plantar fasciitis and heel pain – Multiple studies show significant improvement in pain and function, especially in chronic cases resistant to other treatments.
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) – Shockwave therapy has been shown to reduce pain and improve grip strength.
Calcific tendinitis of the shoulder – Helps break down calcium deposits and restore shoulder mobility.
Patellar tendinopathy (“jumper’s knee”) – Common in athletes, shockwave therapy can promote tendon healing and reduce pain.
Achilles tendinopathy – Stimulates tissue repair in cases of chronic Achilles pain.
Myofascial trigger points and muscle pain – Can reduce tension and improve mobility in affected areas.

Evidence is strongest for chronic tendinopathies, but ongoing research continues to explore additional benefits in sports injuries, joint pain, and muscle dysfunction.

Is Shockwave Therapy Safe?

Yes—when administered by a trained provider, shockwave therapy is generally considered safe. It does not require anesthesia or downtime, and side effects are minimal. Some patients may experience temporary soreness, redness, or mild swelling in the treated area, which typically resolves within a few days.

Who is a Good Candidate?

Shockwave therapy may be a good option for patients who:

Have not found relief with rest, stretching, or other conservative care
Want to avoid medications or injections
Struggle with chronic tendon or ligament pain
Are looking for a non-invasive approach to accelerate recovery

At Gulf Coast Chiropractic, we evaluate each patient individually to determine whether shockwave therapy is appropriate and how it may fit into a comprehensive treatment plan that could also include chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy, or rehabilitative exercise.

Final Thoughts

Shockwave therapy is a safe, research-backed option for many stubborn musculoskeletal conditions. By stimulating the body’s natural healing mechanisms, it can help patients recover more effectively from chronic tendon, ligament, and soft tissue injuries. If you’ve been dealing with ongoing pain that hasn’t improved with other methods, shockwave therapy may be the next step toward long-term relief and improved function.