Table of Contents:
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
What Does Shockwave Therapy Do?
How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?
Why Shockwave Therapy Is Used
Conditions Treated with Shockwave Therapy
Which Injuries Are Treated by Shockwave Therapy?
What Happens During a Shockwave Therapy Treatment?
Is Shockwave Therapy Painful?
Shockwave Therapy Benefits
Is Shockwave Therapy Effective?
How Long Does Shockwave Therapy Take?
How Long Is the Recovery Period from Shockwave Therapy?
Are There Any Side Effects of Shockwave Therapy?
Can Shockwave Therapy Cause Damage?
Who Should Not Undergo Shockwave Therapy?
Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You?
Shockwave Therapy vs SoftWave Therapy
Is Shockwave Therapy Covered by Insurance?
How Much Does Shockwave Therapy Cost?
Frequently Asked Questions About Shockwave Therapy
Why Choose Armeli Chiropractic in Eagan, MN?
Author Bio – Dr. Andrew Armeli, DC

What Is Shockwave Therapy?

If you’re looking for a non-surgical treatment to relieve chronic pain, heal tendon injuries, or improve recovery from soft tissue damage, you may be asking, what is shockwave therapy?

Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate the body’s natural healing response. Rather than simply masking pain with medication, the therapy encourages damaged tissues to repair themselves by promoting blood flow, cellular activity, and tissue regeneration.

Today, shockwave therapy is commonly used by chiropractors, sports medicine physicians, orthopedic specialists, and rehabilitation professionals to treat chronic musculoskeletal conditions that have not responded well to rest, medication, or traditional physical therapy.

One of the biggest advantages of shockwave therapy is that it does not require surgery, injections, or lengthy recovery periods. Most patients can return to their normal daily activities shortly after treatment, making it an attractive option for people seeking conservative pain relief.

What Does Shockwave Therapy Do?

A common question patients ask is, what does shockwave therapy do?

Shockwave therapy delivers controlled acoustic energy directly to injured tendons, ligaments, muscles, and other soft tissues. These sound waves create gentle mechanical stimulation that encourages the body’s natural repair process.

Depending on the condition being treated, shockwave therapy may help:

• Improve local blood circulation
• Stimulate cellular repair
• Encourage collagen production
• Support tendon and ligament healing
• Break down calcified tissue in certain conditions
• Reduce chronic inflammation
• Decrease pain sensitivity
• Improve mobility and function

Unlike pain medications that temporarily reduce symptoms, shockwave therapy focuses on supporting the body’s ability to heal the injured tissue over time.

Many chiropractors also combine shockwave therapy with spinal adjustments, corrective exercises, stretching programs, and rehabilitation to achieve better long-term results.

How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?

Understanding how does shockwave therapy works helps patients know what to expect during treatment.

A handheld treatment device delivers precisely controlled acoustic waves through the skin into the injured tissue. These waves create controlled mechanical stress that stimulates biological healing responses within the body.

Research suggests that shockwave therapy may help:

• Increase blood vessel formation (angiogenesis)
• Improve oxygen and nutrient delivery
• Stimulate collagen production
• Encourage tissue remodeling
• Reduce chronic inflammation
• Improve tendon repair
• Decrease pain receptor sensitivity

Unlike treatments that provide immediate but temporary relief, shockwave therapy works by encouraging gradual healing. Because tissue repair takes time, improvements often continue for several weeks after each treatment session.

Many patients begin noticing reduced pain and improved movement after several visits, with continued progress throughout their rehabilitation program.

Why Is Shockwave Therapy Used?

Many people wonder why shockwave therapy is used instead of injections or surgery.

Healthcare providers often recommend shockwave therapy because it offers a conservative treatment option for chronic musculoskeletal conditions that have not improved with conventional care.

Shockwave therapy is commonly considered when patients have already tried:

• Rest
• Ice and heat therapy
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Physical therapy
• Chiropractic care
• Bracing or orthotics
• Activity modification

Instead of moving directly to invasive procedures, providers may recommend shockwave therapy to stimulate healing while helping patients avoid surgery whenever appropriate.

Its primary goals are to:

• Reduce chronic pain
• Restore mobility
• Improve tissue healing
• Enhance physical function
• Support long-term recovery

Conditions Treated with Shockwave Therapy

There are many conditions treated with shockwave therapy, especially chronic tendon and soft tissue disorders.

Healthcare providers commonly recommend shockwave therapy for:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Achilles tendinopathy
• Tennis elbow
• Golfer’s elbow
• Patellar tendinopathy (jumper’s knee)
• Rotator cuff tendinopathy
• Shoulder calcific tendinitis
• Hip pain (greater trochanteric pain syndrome)
• Hamstring tendinopathy
• Shin splints
• Chronic muscle injuries
• Myofascial trigger points
• Certain ligament injuries

The effectiveness of treatment depends on receiving an accurate diagnosis and determining whether your condition is appropriate for shockwave therapy.

Which Injuries Are Treated by Shockwave Therapy?

Patients frequently ask, which injuries are treated by shockwave therapy?

Shockwave therapy is most effective for chronic overuse injuries that have persisted for several months and have not responded well to conservative treatment.

Common examples include:

• Sports injuries
• Running injuries
• Repetitive strain injuries
• Chronic tendon disorders
• Ligament injuries
• Heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis
• Achilles tendon pain
• Elbow injuries
• Shoulder tendon injuries
• Knee tendon injuries

It is generally not considered the first treatment choice for acute fractures, complete tendon ruptures, or severe traumatic injuries that require surgical intervention.

A thorough examination by your chiropractor or healthcare provider helps determine whether shockwave therapy is appropriate for your injury.

What Happens During a Shockwave Therapy Treatment?

Knowing what happens during a shockwave therapy treatment can help you feel more comfortable before your first appointment.

Treatment usually begins with a comprehensive evaluation to identify the exact source of pain and determine whether shockwave therapy is appropriate.

During the procedure:

1. The treatment area is examined.
2. A conductive gel is applied to the skin.
3. A handheld shockwave device is placed over the injured tissue.
4. Controlled acoustic pulses are delivered to the treatment area.
5. Treatment intensity may be adjusted based on your comfort level.

Most sessions last 10 to 20 minutes, although appointment times may be longer to allow for evaluation and treatment planning.

Many patients require three to six sessions, depending on their diagnosis, symptom severity, and response to treatment.

Is Shockwave Therapy Painful?

One of the most searched questions online is, is shockwave therapy painful?

Most patients describe the treatment as mildly to moderately uncomfortable rather than painful. The level of discomfort depends on:

• The condition being treated
• The location of the injury
• The severity of inflammation
• Individual pain tolerance

As the acoustic waves reach damaged tissue, you may feel tapping or pulsing sensations. Areas with greater inflammation are often more sensitive during the first treatment.

Fortunately, the discomfort usually lasts only during the procedure and typically resolves shortly afterward.

Your provider can adjust the treatment intensity throughout the session to maximize comfort while maintaining therapeutic effectiveness.

Many patients report that each session becomes more comfortable as healing progresses and inflammation decreases.

Shockwave Therapy Benefits

There are numerous shockwave therapy benefits for patients experiencing chronic musculoskeletal pain and tendon injuries.

Potential benefits include:

• Natural pain relief without surgery
• Improved blood circulation
• Enhanced tissue repair
• Increased collagen production
• Better tendon healing
• Reduced chronic inflammation
• Improved flexibility and mobility
• Faster recovery for selected conditions
• Minimal downtime
• No incisions or stitches
• No general anesthesia
• Lower risk than many invasive procedures

When combined with chiropractic care, rehabilitation exercises, and lifestyle modifications, shockwave therapy may help patients return to work, sports, and everyday activities more comfortably.

Although outcomes vary from person to person, many individuals experience meaningful improvements in pain, mobility, and overall function following a complete treatment plan.

Is Shockwave Therapy Effective?

A question many patients ask before starting treatment is, is shockwave therapy effective?

Clinical research suggests that shockwave therapy can be an effective conservative treatment for several chronic musculoskeletal conditions, particularly when symptoms have persisted for months and have not responded to rest, physical therapy, or medication.

Studies have shown positive outcomes for conditions such as:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Achilles tendinopathy
• Tennis elbow
• Calcific shoulder tendinopathy
• Patellar tendinopathy
• Chronic soft tissue injuries

The effectiveness of treatment depends on several factors, including the correct diagnosis, the severity of the condition, how long symptoms have been present, and the patient’s commitment to following the recommended rehabilitation program.

While many patients experience noticeable pain relief and improved mobility, results vary from person to person. Shockwave therapy should be viewed as one part of a comprehensive treatment plan rather than a standalone cure.

How Long Does Shockwave Therapy Take?

Another common question is, how long does shockwave therapy take?

A typical treatment session lasts between 10 and 20 minutes, depending on the area being treated and the complexity of the condition.

Your appointment may take a little longer because your chiropractor will usually:

• Review your symptoms
• Assess your progress
• Locate the treatment area
• Perform the shockwave therapy
• Discuss post-treatment recommendations

Most patients receive three to six treatment sessions, although some conditions may require additional visits depending on healing progress.

Your provider will recommend a treatment schedule based on your diagnosis and recovery goals.

How Long Is the Recovery Period from Shockwave Therapy?

Patients often ask, how long is the recovery period from shockwave therapy?

One of the major advantages of shockwave therapy is that there is very little downtime.

Most patients can:

• Return to work the same day
• Resume normal daily activities immediately
• Walk normally after treatment
• Drive home without assistance

However, your chiropractor may recommend avoiding:

• Running
• Heavy lifting
• High-impact sports
• Intense exercise involving the treated area

for several days to allow the tissues to recover properly.

Healing continues gradually after each treatment. While some patients notice improvement within the first few sessions, others continue improving for several weeks or even months as tissue repair progresses.

Are There Any Side Effects of Shockwave Therapy?

One of the most important questions patients ask is, are there any side effects of shockwave therapy?

Shockwave therapy is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified healthcare professional.

Most side effects are mild, temporary, and resolve without additional treatment.

These may include:

• Mild soreness
• Temporary redness
• Slight swelling
• Minor bruising
• Tenderness around the treatment area
• Temporary sensitivity

These reactions are often a normal part of the body’s healing response and usually improve within a few days.

If symptoms persist or become severe, patients should contact their healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Can Shockwave Therapy Cause Damage?

It’s understandable to wonder: can shockwave therapy cause damage?

When administered by an experienced chiropractor or trained healthcare provider using appropriate treatment settings, shockwave therapy is considered a safe, evidence-based procedure for suitable patients.

Serious complications are uncommon.

To minimize potential risks:

• Follow all post-treatment instructions.
• Avoid activities your provider recommends postponing.
• Complete the full treatment plan.
• Inform your provider about your medical history and medications.

Like any medical treatment, proper patient selection is important. That’s why a comprehensive evaluation should always be completed before beginning therapy.

Who Should Not Undergo Shockwave Therapy?

Many people ask, who should not undergo shockwave therapy?

Although shockwave therapy is safe for many individuals, it may not be appropriate for everyone.

Your provider may recommend an alternative treatment if you:

• Are pregnant
• Have a bleeding disorder
• Take certain blood-thinning medications
• Have an active infection near the treatment area
• Have certain cancers involving the treatment site
• Have open wounds over the treatment area
• Have recently experienced a fracture that has not healed
• Are still growing (treatment is generally avoided over growth plates in children)

Your chiropractor will carefully review your medical history before recommending shockwave therapy.

Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You?

If you’re wondering, is shockwave therapy right for you, the answer depends on your specific diagnosis and health history.

You may be a good candidate if you:

• Have chronic tendon pain
• Have plantar fasciitis
• Have persistent shoulder pain
• Have tennis elbow
• Have Achilles tendinopathy
• Have tried conservative treatments without lasting relief
• Want to avoid surgery whenever possible

A complete examination allows your chiropractor to determine whether shockwave therapy fits your treatment goals.

For many patients, combining shockwave therapy with chiropractic adjustments, rehabilitation exercises, stretching, and corrective care provides the best opportunity for long-term improvement.

Shockwave Therapy vs SoftWave Therapy

Many patients compare shockwave therapy vs SoftWave therapy when researching non-invasive pain relief treatments.

Although both treatments use acoustic wave technology to encourage healing, they differ in how the energy is generated and delivered to the body.

Both therapies are non-invasive and may help improve healing without surgery. The most appropriate option depends on your diagnosis, treatment goals, and your chiropractor’s clinical recommendations.

Is Shockwave Therapy Covered by Insurance?

Another common question patients ask is, is shockwave therapy covered by insurance?

Insurance coverage for shockwave therapy varies depending on your health insurance provider, policy, location, and the condition being treated. Some insurance plans may provide coverage for specific musculoskeletal conditions when treatment is considered medically necessary, while others classify shockwave therapy as an elective or non-covered service.

Coverage may depend on factors such as:

• Your medical diagnosis
• Your insurance plan
• Whether conservative treatments have already been attempted
• Your provider’s documentation
• Medical necessity requirements

Before beginning treatment, it’s best to contact your insurance provider or speak with your chiropractic office to verify your benefits and understand any potential out-of-pocket costs.

How Much Does Shockwave Therapy Cost?

Patients also frequently ask, how much does shockwave therapy cost?

The cost of shockwave therapy can vary based on several factors, including:

• Your geographic location
• The provider’s experience
• The condition being treated
• The number of treatment sessions required
• Whether insurance contributes toward the cost

Since every treatment plan is customized, there is no fixed price for every patient. Some people achieve excellent results after only a few sessions, while others may require additional treatments depending on the severity and duration of their condition.

Scheduling a consultation is the best way to receive an accurate treatment recommendation and personalized cost estimate.

Why Choose Armeli Chiropractic for Shockwave Therapy in Eagan, MN?

If you’re searching for a trusted chiropractor in Eagan, MN offering conservative treatment options for chronic pain and musculoskeletal injuries, Armeli Chiropractic provides personalized chiropractic care designed to help patients recover naturally and improve long-term function.

Dr. Andrew Armeli combines evidence-based chiropractic care with modern rehabilitation techniques to address the underlying cause of pain—not just the symptoms. Depending on your diagnosis, shockwave therapy may be recommended alongside chiropractic adjustments, spinal decompression, physiotherapy, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, or other supportive treatments to optimize healing.

Patients choose Armeli Chiropractic because we offer:

• Personalized treatment plans
• Comprehensive chiropractic evaluations
• Modern diagnostic technology
• Evidence-informed conservative care
• Family-friendly chiropractic services
• Sports injury rehabilitation
• Auto accident injury care
• Wellness-focused treatment plans

Whether you’re dealing with plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, Achilles tendinopathy, shoulder pain, chronic tendon injuries, or repetitive strain injuries, our goal is to help you move better, recover faster, and return to your everyday activities with confidence.

Services

• Chiropractic Care
• Pediatric Care
• Prenatal Care
• Athlete Care
• Auto Injury Care
• Activator Method
• Intersegmental Traction
• Spinal X-Ray
• Spinal Decompression
• Kinesio Taping
• Myofascial Release
• Trigger Point Therapy
• Physiotherapy
• Work Injuries Care
• Webster Technique
• Wellness Care

Armeli Chiropractic
Location:  Eagan, MN
Phone: +1 651-688-0736
Website: Chiropractor Eagan, MN
Map: Armeli Chiropractic – Eagan, MN

Frequently Asked Questions About Shockwave Therapy

Can I return to work after shockwave therapy?

Yes. Most patients can return to work and resume normal daily activities immediately following treatment. However, your chiropractor may recommend avoiding strenuous exercise or high-impact activities involving the treated area for a few days.

How many shockwave therapy sessions will I need?

Most treatment plans include three to six sessions, although the exact number depends on your condition, symptom severity, and how your body responds to treatment.

Does everyone benefit from shockwave therapy?

Not always. While many patients experience significant improvement in pain and mobility, results vary based on the diagnosis, overall health, and adherence to the recommended treatment plan.

When will I notice results?

Some patients notice improvement after one or two sessions, while others experience gradual relief over several weeks as the body’s natural healing process continues.

Can shockwave therapy be combined with chiropractic care?

Absolutely. Many chiropractors combine shockwave therapy with chiropractic adjustments, spinal decompression, physiotherapy, corrective exercises, and soft tissue therapies to improve overall treatment outcomes.

Is shockwave therapy a replacement for surgery?

Not necessarily. Shockwave therapy is often recommended before surgery for selected chronic tendon conditions because it offers a non-invasive treatment option. However, certain injuries may still require surgical evaluation depending on their severity.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been asking what is shockwave therapy, it’s important to understand that this innovative treatment is designed to support your body’s natural healing process rather than simply masking pain.

For many patients experiencing chronic tendon injuries, heel pain, shoulder pain, elbow pain, or other musculoskeletal conditions, shockwave therapy provides a non-invasive treatment option that may reduce pain, improve mobility, and encourage long-term tissue healing without surgery or extended downtime.

Because every injury is unique, the first step is a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified chiropractor. An accurate diagnosis allows your provider to determine whether shockwave therapy is appropriate and create a personalized treatment plan based on your condition and recovery goals.

If persistent pain is limiting your daily activities, seeking professional care early may help you recover more effectively and get back to doing what you enjoy.

Author Bio

Dr. Andrew Armeli, DC

Dr. Andrew Armeli is a National Board Certified Chiropractor serving patients in Eagan, Minnesota, and throughout the Twin Cities. He is passionate about helping individuals and families improve their neurological function, musculoskeletal health, and overall wellness through personalized chiropractic care.

With advanced certifications in whiplash treatment, pre-sports physicals, and performance rehabilitation, Dr. Armeli treats a wide range of conditions, including sports injuries, auto accident injuries, chronic back and neck pain, headaches, pregnancy-related discomfort, and mobility challenges. His patient-centered approach combines chiropractic adjustments with evidence-based rehabilitation techniques to help patients recover naturally and maintain long-term health.

Outside the clinic, Dr. Armeli enjoys spending time with his family, playing disc golf, fishing, and exploring the outdoors with his dog, Cora.