What makes radial shockwave different?
Radial shockwave is also called radial pressure-wave therapy. Its pulses spread outward from the applicator, with pressure greatest near the skin. It treats an area differently from focused shockwave, which concentrates energy within a focal region.
At Progress Physiotherapy, radial shockwave is one of the options available after assessment. The important question is whether the treatment suits your specific concern and helps advance your rehabilitation.
Who might benefit from an assessment?
You may want to discuss radial shockwave if heel or tendon pain keeps returning when you increase activity, or if progress with your current plan has stalled. We assess where symptoms arise, how long they have been present and what you have already tried.
We may consider it for suitable presentations of plantar heel pain or tendon pain around the elbow, knee or Achilles. Similar symptoms can come from different tissues, and not every painful area should receive shockwave. Acute injuries, suspected tears and other medical concerns may need a different approach.
What is the aim?
The aim is to improve comfort and function in a presentation for which shockwave is appropriate. Our commitment to evidence-informed care and the biological effects studied in research are explained in our shockwave guide. We apply that knowledge to your assessment findings and recovery goals.
What happens at the appointment?
- We check the treatment area and review changes in symptoms and health.
- We explain the procedure and obtain your agreement.
- The applicator delivers repeated pulses through the skin. You can tell us if the sensation is too uncomfortable.
- We review your exercises and the activity guidance for the period between visits.
The treatment can feel like rapid tapping, with discomfort over sensitive tissue. Temporary soreness or bruising is possible. Bring an up-to-date medication list and mention any bleeding conditions or other relevant health changes.
From symptom relief to better activity tolerance
For an elbow problem, meaningful progress might mean gripping a mug or carrying shopping more comfortably. A plan may combine appropriate treatment with progressive wrist and arm strengthening and adjustments to aggravating tasks.
We review both symptoms and function. If a treatment is not producing useful progress, your physiotherapist will reassess the plan rather than simply repeat the same approach.
Radial or focus: which should I book?
Book an assessment. We have both options and can explain why one, both at different stages, or neither may be appropriate. Learn how focus shockwave differs.
Radial shockwave, focus shockwave and Class IV laser are included in your physiotherapy fee when appropriate, with no additional charge. Fees and insurance details.
Your questions, answered
Is more intensity better?
Treatment settings need to suit the tissue and your tolerance. More discomfort does not mean a better result; tell your physiotherapist what you feel.
Is radial shockwave an entire follow-up appointment?
It is one possible part of your 30-minute physiotherapy follow-up. Your appointment also allows your physiotherapist to review progress and the wider rehabilitation plan.
Research & further reading
Advanced options. Experienced clinical judgement.
At Progress Physiotherapy in West Kingston, focused and radial shockwave and high-power Class IV laser are available within your physiotherapy care. Your clinician draws on experience, current evidence and your assessment to choose the appropriate technology alongside exercise and hands-on treatment. These options are included in your physiotherapy fee, with no additional charge.