If you’ve been dealing with chronic tendon pain or heel pain that just won’t go away — despite rest, stretching, and other treatments — shockwave therapy may be exactly what you need. It’s one of the most effective evidence-based treatments for stubborn musculoskeletal conditions, and it’s available right here at Rishaan Physio & Wellness Clinic in Mississauga.
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy — formally called Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) — uses high-energy acoustic (sound) waves to penetrate deep into injured tissue. These pulses stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, break down scar tissue and calcium deposits, and increase blood flow to chronically injured areas.
It’s called “shockwave” not because it delivers an electrical shock, but because of the rapid pressure waves it generates. The treatment is non-invasive — no needles, no incisions.
What Conditions Does Shockwave Therapy Treat?
Shockwave therapy is most effective for chronic tendon conditions — problems that have been present for 3 or more months and haven’t fully responded to rest, physio, or other conservative treatments.
- Plantar fasciitis — chronic heel pain
- Achilles tendinopathy — pain at the back of the heel
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
- Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis)
- Calcific shoulder — calcium deposits in the rotator cuff
- Patellar tendinopathy — “jumper’s knee”
- Greater trochanteric pain syndrome — hip tendon pain
The Science Behind Shockwave Therapy
Chronic tendon injuries don’t heal well on their own because they exist in a state of failed healing — the tissue has degenerated but the body is no longer actively trying to repair it. Shockwave therapy “restarts” the healing process by:
- Increasing local blood circulation to the injured area
- Stimulating the production of collagen — the building block of tendon repair
- Breaking down calcium deposits in calcific tendinopathies
- Desensitizing pain receptors for immediate pain relief
What Does a Session Feel Like?
During treatment, a handheld device is applied to the skin over the injured area — usually with gel to transmit the waves effectively. You’ll feel a series of rapid tapping or pulsing sensations. Some people describe it as mildly uncomfortable, particularly over areas that are already tender. The intensity is adjustable and your therapist works within your comfort level.
Each session lasts approximately 10–15 minutes. Immediately after, the treated area may feel sore for 24–48 hours — this is a normal part of the healing response being triggered.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
Most conditions respond well to 3–5 sessions spaced 1 week apart. Some patients notice improvement after the first session; most see significant change after 3. Your physiotherapist will assess your response and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
Is Shockwave Therapy Covered by Insurance?
Coverage varies by insurance plan. Many extended health plans that cover physiotherapy do include shockwave therapy. Our team at Rishaan Physio can help you check your coverage before starting treatment. Call us at (905)-800-1661 for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
It can feel mildly uncomfortable, especially over already-tender areas. The intensity is adjustable, and most patients tolerate sessions well. There may be 24–48 hours of soreness after treatment, which is a normal healing response.
How many shockwave therapy sessions do I need?
Most conditions respond to 3–5 sessions spaced one week apart. Some patients feel improvement after the first session; most see significant results after 3.
Is shockwave therapy safe?
Yes — shockwave therapy is a well-researched, non-invasive treatment with a strong safety profile. It is not recommended for people with blood clotting disorders, active infections, or certain other conditions. Your physiotherapist will screen you before treatment.
What conditions does shockwave therapy treat?
Shockwave is most effective for chronic tendon conditions including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, tennis elbow, calcific shoulder, and patellar tendinopathy — particularly when other treatments haven’t fully resolved the problem.
Is shockwave therapy covered by insurance in Ontario?
Coverage varies by plan. Many extended health plans that cover physiotherapy also cover shockwave therapy. Call Rishaan Physio at (905)-800-1661 and our team can help verify your coverage.
Book Shockwave Therapy in Mississauga
Chronic pain? Get a shockwave consultation at Rishaan Physio today.
No referral needed | Same-day appointments | Direct billing
📍 5105 Hurontario St, Unit 7, Mississauga📞 Call (905)-800-1661