What is myofascial pain?
Myofascial pain is pain associated with muscles and the connective tissue surrounding it. A trigger point is a sensitive place in a muscle that can evoke local or radiating pain. The term describes a finding in investigation; it does not automatically explain all your symptoms. That is why we are also looking at movement, physical load, recovery and other possible causes.
What can shockwave add?
Positive results for pain reduction have been found at painful muscle points, especially in the muscle between neck and shoulder. A 2012 study followed twenty participants and found improvement after a short series of treatments compared to a treatment with virtually no energy. It was a small study with a short measurement period. In another study from 2025 in seventy participants, radial shockwave in addition to exercises did not provide any demonstrable additional benefit over a dummy treatment with the same exercises. So the research results are different. We're discussing the potential added value for your situation.
Focused or radial with a muscle symptom?
Both techniques have been studied in myofascial pain. Focused shockwave bundles the energy into a selected area; radial pressure waves spread from the applicator. A targeted assessment determines which technique suits the location and nature of your symptom. Only a deeper range doesn't make treatment more effective.
Treating more than the sensitive area
We discuss the movements or circumstances that affect the symptoms. If shockwave fits, we combine the treatment with exercises and advice on load where necessary. We agree on a recognizable goal, like sitting behind your desk more pleasantly or turning your head easier. That goal helps to assess the effect.
When is another assessment required?
New power reduction, increased numbness, fever or symptoms after a serious accident require medical assessment. Unexplained or rapidly increasing pain is also a reason to consult your GP first. In this way, we prevent another cause from being unfairly treated as a muscle.
Your first step
During the intake we map the symptom and discuss an appropriate proposal. ultrasound is used for a paid intake at no extra cost when it makes sense; an ultrasound is not required by default to assess myofascial pain. See what the intake means.
This information is general. Whether shockwave is appropriate for you requires a personal assessment. There's no guarantee of recovery.