What Is Shockwave Therapy? Understanding This Powerful Pain Treatment

June 5, 2025

What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shock wave therapy, is a non-invasive, innovative treatment used to address various musculoskeletal disorders and chronic pain conditions. Initially developed for breaking up kidney stones, this technology is now widely used in physical therapy, orthopedics, and sports medicine.

This procedure uses high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate healing in injured or painful tissues. If you’re searching for “shockwave therapy near me,” you’re likely looking for a solution that offers relief without surgery or downtime. At Lotus Spring Acupuncture & Wellness Inc., we offer safe, clinically backed shockwave treatments tailored to your health goals.

How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?

Shockwave therapy delivers controlled pulses of energy directly to the injured area using a handheld device. These sound waves increase blood circulation, stimulate cell regeneration, and accelerate the body’s natural healing process.

The treatment also helps break down calcific deposits and reduce inflammation, key contributors to chronic pain. Whether you’re dealing with plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, or frozen shoulder, shockwave therapy targets the root of the problem, not just the symptoms.

During your session, you’ll experience gentle tapping or pulsing sensations. Each session lasts about 15–30 minutes, depending on the condition being treated.

Benefits of Shockwave Therapy

Patients choose shockwave therapy not only for its remarkable pain-relieving effects but also for its ability to promote long-term healing and improve overall function. Here’s why this treatment stands out:

Non-surgical & drug-free: Unlike invasive procedures, shockwave therapy requires no incisions, anesthesia, or medications, eliminating risks associated with surgery and pharmaceuticals. This makes it an ideal option for those seeking natural, non-addictive pain relief without the side effects of opioids or steroids.
Faster recovery: While traditional treatments like physical therapy or cortisone shots may take months to show results, many shockwave therapy patients report noticeable improvements in just 3–5 sessions. Because it stimulates the body’s natural healing mechanisms, the benefits often last longer than temporary fixes like painkillers.
Minimal side effects: Compared to surgeries (risk of infection, long recovery) or steroid injections (tissue weakening, blood sugar spikes), shockwave therapy has few and mild side effects, such as temporary redness or slight soreness. Serious complications are extremely rare when performed by certified practitioners.
Effective for chronic conditions: Many patients turn to shockwave therapy after other treatments fail, especially for persistent tendon injuries (plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, rotator cuff tears). The therapy breaks down scar tissue, increases blood flow, and kickstarts stalled healing processes, making it a game-changer for long-standing pain.
Improves mobility: Chronic pain and stiffness often lead to reduced movement, weakened muscles, and joints over time. By reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair, shockwave therapy helps patients regain flexibility, strength, and range of motion, key to returning to daily activities or sports.
Affordable alternative: When weighing shockwave therapy cost against alternatives like surgery (hospital fees, anesthesia, rehab) or endless physical therapy sessions, it’s often the more affordable option. Many insurance plans also provide partial or full coverage for qualifying conditions.

Shockwave Therapy Cost: What You Should Know

Understanding the shockwave therapy cost is essential when evaluating treatment options. The price can vary depending on the condition treated, the clinic’s location, and the number of sessions required.

At Lotus Spring Acupuncture & Wellness Inc., we offer transparent pricing and personalized care plans. Most treatment packages range from $100 to $250 per session, and many patients require a short series of sessions to achieve optimal results.

Insurance coverage may vary, but we offer competitive rates and flexible payment options. If you’re searching online for “shockwave therapy near me” and care about both quality and affordability, contact us for a consultation.

Conditions Treated With Shockwave Therapy

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy is a versatile tool for treating many issues, including:

Plantar fasciitis
Achilles tendinopathy
Patellar tendinitis (jumper’s knee)
Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow
Calcific shoulder tendinopathy
Trigger points and chronic muscle pain
Shin splints
Hip bursitis

At Lotus Spring, our licensed practitioners evaluate each case carefully to ensure shockwave therapy is the most effective course of treatment.

Who Should Not Undergo Shockwave Therapy?

While shockwave therapy is safe and FDA-approved, it’s not suitable for everyone. You should avoid this treatment if:

You have a pacemaker or other electronic implants
You are pregnant
You have bleeding disorders or are on blood thinners
You have a bone tumor or infection in the targeted area
You have an open wound or skin irritation where treatment is needed

During your first visit, our team will perform a full assessment to ensure that shockwave therapy is appropriate for your condition and health history.

What To Expect During and After Treatment

Your shockwave therapy experience begins with a thorough consultation and diagnostic ultrasound to precisely identify the treatment area. During the session, your practitioner will apply a conductive gel and gently move the handheld device over the affected region, delivering targeted energy pulses. Most patients describe the sensation as deep, rhythmic vibrations with occasional mild discomfort in more sensitive areas.

Following treatment, you may experience temporary side effects that typically subside within 24-48 hours, including:

Mild soreness resembling post-workout muscle fatigue
Slight swelling or redness at the treatment site
Possible brief tenderness to touch

The positive effects often include:

Progressive pain relief that may begin immediately or develop over several days
Improved mobility and range of motion
Little to no recovery time – most patients return to normal activities immediately

Many patients report noticeable improvement after just 2-3 sessions, with optimal results typically achieved within 4-6 treatments. Your practitioner will provide personalized aftercare instructions and may recommend complementary therapies to enhance your results.

Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You?

If you’re tired of living with pain and want a proven, non-invasive option, shockwave therapy may be the breakthrough you’re looking for. At Lotus Spring Acupuncture & Wellness Inc., we tailor each session to your unique needs and body mechanics.

Combining ancient healing principles with modern medical innovation, we ensure a well-rounded and patient-centered approach to pain relief and tissue healing.

FAQs About Shockwave Therapy

What is shockwave therapy used for?

Shockwave therapy is commonly used to treat chronic tendon and muscle conditions such as plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, shoulder tendinitis, and Achilles tendinopathy. It promotes natural healing and reduces inflammation and pain.

Is shockwave therapy safe?

Yes. When performed by trained professionals like those at Lotus Spring Acupuncture & Wellness Inc., shockwave therapy is very safe and has minimal side effects.

How many sessions are needed?

Most patients see improvement after 3 to 5 sessions, though this may vary based on the severity of the condition and your body’s response to treatment.

Does insurance cover shockwave therapy?

Some insurance providers may cover shockwave therapy under specific plans, especially if prescribed for a medically necessary condition. Always check with your provider or speak to our staff for help verifying coverage.

Is there downtime after shockwave therapy?

No. Shockwave therapy is non-invasive and does not require anesthesia. You may resume most normal activities immediately after treatment.

How long do results last?

The duration of your results depends on several factors, including your specific condition, overall health, and adherence to aftercare recommendations. Many patients experience significant pain relief that lasts 6 months to 2 years or longer following their treatment series.

For optimal long-term results, we recommend:

Complementary therapies like stretching or strengthening exercises
Lifestyle modifications to address underlying causes
Periodic maintenance sessions for chronic conditions

While some patients achieve permanent resolution of their symptoms, others may require occasional follow-up treatments, particularly for:
✓ Degenerative conditions
✓ High-impact athletes
✓ Patients with physically demanding jobs

Your practitioner will create a personalized maintenance plan to help prolong your results based on your response to treatment.

Final Thoughts: Invest in Pain-Free Living

Shockwave therapy is transforming the way chronic pain is treated. It’s effective, affordable, and backed by clinical research. Whether you’re struggling with a lingering injury or looking to avoid surgery, extracorporeal shock wave therapy may be the solution.

Searching online for “shockwave therapy near me“? At Lotus Spring Acupuncture & Wellness Inc., we deliver proven results through integrative care. From first-time assessments to follow-up recovery plans, our team is here to help you heal naturally.

END NOTE

If you’re ready to experience real pain relief, Lotus Spring Acupuncture & Wellness Inc. is here to help. We offer evidence-based shockwave therapy treatments tailored to your body’s needs. Our expert practitioners specialize in integrative pain management that blends ancient wisdom with cutting-edge technology.

Serving the Greater Utah County area, our clinic welcomes new patients seeking trusted and effective care. Visit our website to book a consultation, learn more about our holistic services, and explore what makes Lotus Spring a top-rated wellness destination. Don’t wait, schedule your first session today and take the first step toward living pain-free.