Focused Shockwave Therapy

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What It Is, How It Feels, and Why We Use It for Chronic Pain

Focused Shockwave Therapy is one of the primary tools we use at Impact Laser Mobility & Recovery to support recovery from chronic tendon, joint, and soft-tissue pain—especially when symptoms have lingered or keep returning.

This page is designed to answer common questions so you know exactly what to expect and can feel confident about your care.

What Is Focused Shockwave Therapy?

Focused Shockwave Therapy uses acoustic pressure waves (mechanical energy, not electricity) to deliver a targeted stimulus to tissue beneath the skin.

These pressure waves help:

  • increase local circulation

  • stimulate cellular activity in stubborn tissue

  • support tendon and soft-tissue remodeling

  • reduce pain signaling over time

Shockwave is most often used for chronic conditions, where tissue healing has slowed or stalled.

Focused Shockwave vs. Radial (Pressure) Shockwave — What’s the Difference?

Not all shockwave therapy is the same, and this distinction matters—especially for chronic pain.

There are two main categories used in clinics today:

Radial (Pressure) Shockwave

  • energy disperses broadly from the surface

  • primarily affects shallow tissue

  • often feels more like vibration or tapping

  • commonly used for general muscle discomfort

Focused Shockwave

  • energy is delivered to a specific depth and target area

  • reaches deeper tendon and joint tissue

  • allows for more precise treatment placement

  • is commonly used for chronic tendon and joint conditions

At Impact Laser Mobility & Recovery, we use Focused Shockwave Therapy because chronic pain often involves deeper, more stubborn tissue that benefits from targeted stimulation rather than surface-level treatment.

Both approaches have a place in healthcare. We intentionally chose focused shockwave because it aligns best with the conditions we treat and the conservative outcomes we aim to support.

What Shockwave Is Not

Shockwave therapy is sometimes misunderstood. It is not:

  • ultrasound

  • electrical stimulation

  • injections

  • heat therapy

  • medication

It is a mechanical stimulus designed to encourage tissue that has adapted poorly to ongoing stress to respond differently.

Why We Use Shockwave for Chronic Pain

Chronic pain often involves tissue that is:

  • under-perfused (limited circulation)

  • overloaded over time

  • slow to regenerate

  • less responsive to rest alone

Focused shockwave helps by providing a targeted mechanical signal that encourages the body’s natural repair processes to re-engage.

This is why shockwave is commonly used for:

  • plantar fasciitis

  • tendon pain (elbow, shoulder, knee, Achilles)

  • chronic soft-tissue irritation

  • persistent pain that hasn’t responded to simpler care

What Does Shockwave Therapy Feel Like?

This is one of the most common questions—and it’s important to answer honestly.

Shockwave can feel:

  • intense

  • sharp or tapping

  • uncomfortable at times

However:

  • sessions are brief

  • intensity is adjusted to your tolerance

  • discomfort typically resolves quickly

Most people describe it as very tolerable, especially once they understand why it’s being used and how long it lasts.

We communicate throughout the session and adjust as needed.

How Shockwave Fits Into Our Programs

At Impact, shockwave is rarely used alone for chronic conditions.

We typically pair it with:

  • Class IV Deep Tissue Laser Therapy to support cellular energy, circulation, and recovery

  • structured treatment timing rather than random visits

  • nutrition and recovery guidance to support healing between sessions

This combination helps stimulate tissue while supporting recovery and reducing flare-ups.

Is Shockwave Safe?

When used appropriately and after proper screening, focused shockwave therapy is considered safe and non-invasive.

We review contraindications carefully and will not use shockwave if it is not appropriate for you.

Shockwave may not be appropriate if you have:

  • a recent fracture

  • active infection

  • certain vascular or neurological conditions

  • specific medical implants in the treatment area

If shockwave is not a good fit, we will discuss other options honestly.

How Many Sessions Are Typically Needed?

For chronic pain, shockwave is most effective when used as part of a series.

That’s why our chronic programs typically include:

  • 6 structured visits

  • consistent spacing

  • adjustments based on your response

Chronic tissue usually responds gradually, not instantly.

What Should I Do After a Shockwave Session?

After treatment, we typically recommend:

  • light activity rather than complete rest

  • avoiding aggressive loading for a short window

  • following the simple recovery guidance provided with your program

Temporary soreness can occur and usually resolves quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is shockwave painful?
It can be uncomfortable, but sessions are brief and adjustable. Most clients tolerate it well.

Will I feel better right away?
Some people notice early changes, but chronic recovery is typically progressive.

Is shockwave a last resort?
We view shockwave as a conservative option that many people choose before injections or surgery—not a last resort.

Does shockwave replace surgery or medical care?
No. We provide non-invasive recovery support and do not replace physician-led care.

Why combine shockwave with laser?
Shockwave stimulates tissue mechanically; laser supports cellular recovery. Together, they address chronic pain more comprehensively.

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