Does a sports medicine perform shockwave therapy?

A clinician identifies the painful structure, checks the skin and circulation, and reviews medicines and health conditions that may affect treatment. A hand-held applicator delivers focused or radial pulses through the skin. You may feel tapping or discomfort during the session, and the intensity can be adjusted. Shockwave therapy is usually considered alongside load management, exercises and changes to aggravating activity; it does not replace a diagnosis or automatically correct every source of pain.

Tell the clinician about blood-thinning medicine, bleeding problems, pregnancy, nerve or circulation conditions, infection near the treatment area, and any recent injection or operation. Wear clothing that allows access to the body region. Follow the advice about activity afterward and complete prescribed exercises, since rebuilding capacity is often part of the same plan.

Have urgent assessment for sudden severe pain after an injury, inability to use the limb, new numbness or weakness, or a limb that is cold or discoloured. After treatment, seek advice for rapidly increasing swelling, spreading redness, fever, unusual bruising or pain that is severe and not settling.

What structure is causing my pain? Why is shockwave therapy suitable for me? What should I expect during and after treatment? Which activities and exercises should I continue?