- Handpiece
- Contact gel
- Focus zone
Electromagnetic generated
In the technique shown, an electromagnetic source moves a membrane. A reflector in the handpiece bundles the acoustic waves.
Via gel to the tissue
Contact gel connects the contact plane to the skin. Thus the acoustic pressure pulses are transmitted from the handpiece to the tissue.
Together in a focus zone
The waves come together in a demarcated area. The location and dimensions of that zone depend on the handpiece and the applicator.
Technical explanation of the manufacturer (opens in a new tab) ↗
More possibilities than tendon treatment alone
We believe that the broad possibilities of focused shockwave deserve more attention. In addition to symptoms from the tendons, there are applications for muscles and specialised bone care. The treatment is also investigated for back, meniscus and ligaments. This broad scope requires expertise: we determine whether the treatment can be useful and which care is included in each diagnosis.
Promising and proven are different things
The same number or strength of studies are not available for each application. Limited research means that we are less sure how big the effect is, for whom it occurs and how long it lasts. Practical experience helps in asking questions and following results, but does not replace a competition. That's why we discuss the expectations per symptom and evaluate what the treatment delivers for you.
A targeted treatment choice
The clinician is focused on the diagnosis and the target area. The equipment, the applicator and the settings determine which treatment is possible. We discuss why an application can fit your symptom and what you can expect from it.
What makes focused shockwave special?
A focused source bundles shock waves into a demarcated area. As a result, a trader can achieve a chosen structure in a targeted way, even if it is deeper. The reachable depth and focus area depend on the device and settings. That targeted character offers other possibilities than radial pressure waves, which spread from the point of contact.
Back, meniscus and ligaments
Also in case of persistent back pain with Discopathy, degenerative meniscus symptoms and certain ligament symptoms We assess the possible role of focused shockwave. These are applications for which clinical research is still growing. We are discussing the concrete indications for improvement and what is still uncertain. Pain reduction is a different outcome than demonstrably restoring a damaged structure.
Also for muscles and trigger points
A concrete example outside tendons is myofascial pain: symptoms of muscles and their surrounding connective tissue. Study at painful muscle points in the upper monk's cap muscle shows pain reduction after shockwave. In a 2025 study, the results for pain were similar with focused and radial treatment. So focussed is not an automatic better choice for every muscle point. Read how we assess muscle pain and trigger points.
The role in tendons and plantar fascia
In some long-term symptoms of tendons and symptoms of the plantar fascia under foot, shockwave may be part of the treatment plan. The results and guidance opinions vary according to diagnosis. Also calcification in a tendon in the shoulder requires its own consideration. You will find the concrete foundation on our symptom page.
Specialist applications in bone healing
Focused shockwave is also used in selected patients whose bone fracture is not sufficiently solid. This requires a doctor, appropriate imaging and specific equipment with high energy and precise positioning. This application shows how wide the technique is; bone treatment is not a confirmed supply of Shockwave Clinics. Such a call for help should include assessment within orthopaedic or traumatic surgery.
What does effective mean for you?
We link the treatment to a concrete goal: for example, less pain with a movement, longer work again or resume an activity. A positive research result only gets meaning when it fits your diagnosis and situation. In advance, we agree on how and when to follow the effect. Check out the overview of applications and support.
What can you expect?
A handpiece transmits pulses to the treatment area via contact gel. That could be sensitive. The clinician discusses possible side effects, monitors your response and plans a moment to assess the effect.
Part of a broader plan
Where appropriate, we combine shockwave with exercises and load guidance. The number of treatments is discussed individually. You get a proposal with the intended effect, the costs and an evaluation moment.
This information is general. Whether shockwave is appropriate for you requires a personal assessment. There's no guarantee of recovery.
More about the evidence
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