What is shockwave therapy?

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic waves to stimulate healing in damaged tissues. It’s especially effective for stubborn tendon and joint problems that haven’t improved with rest or standard physiotherapy.

In Northampton, more and more patients are turning to shockwave therapy as an alternative to injections or surgery.

Conditions treated with shockwave therapy

At RED Physiotherapy Northampton, we use shockwave for:

• Tendonitis and tendinopathy\n\nAchilles tendon pain
• Patellar (jumper’s knee)
• Shoulder tendinopathy (rotator cuff)

\n\n\n\n\nPlantar fasciitis – stabbing heel pain, especially in the morning.\n\n\n\nBursitis – painful inflammation of joints like the hip or shoulder.\n\n\n\nChronic muscle pain – stubborn trigger points that don’t respond to massage.\n\n\n\nDelayed healing injuries – where scar tissue has slowed recovery.\n\n\n\n\n

How does shockwave therapy work?

The machine sends high-energy sound waves into the affected tissue. This creates micro-trauma, which triggers the body’s natural healing response by:

• Increasing blood flow
• Stimulating cell regeneration
• Breaking down calcification and scar tissue
• Reducing pain signals from nerves

Most people describe it as a tapping sensation — not painful, just unusual.

Benefits of shockwave therapy

✔ Fast results – Many patients notice improvement after 3–6 sessions.✔ Non-invasive – No injections or surgery required.✔ Proven effectiveness – Supported by strong clinical evidence.✔ Works when other treatments fail – especially chronic tendon pain.✔ Safe and well-tolerated – minimal side effects, no downtime.

What the research says

• A 2015 Cochrane Review found strong evidence that shockwave improves pain and function in plantar fasciitis.
• NICE guidelines recommend shockwave for stubborn Achilles and shoulder tendinopathy when conservative care fails.
• A British Journal of Sports Medicine study (2021) reported that patients had a 60–70% improvement rate with shockwave therapy for chronic tendon pain.

Who benefits from shockwave therapy in Northampton?

We see a variety of patients:

• Runners with persistent Achilles tendon pain.
• Manual workers with shoulder or elbow tendonitis.
• Office workers with stubborn shoulder bursitis.
• Middle-aged patients with plantar fasciitis limiting daily life.

What to expect at RED Physiotherapy Northampton

1. Assessment – we confirm shockwave is right for you.
2. Treatment – quick, 10–15 minute sessions using the shockwave device.
3. Combination care – exercises and physiotherapy alongside shockwave for best results.
4. Follow-up – most patients need 3–6 sessions.

FAQs about shockwave therapy in Northampton

Does shockwave therapy hurt?It can feel slightly uncomfortable, but most patients tolerate it well.

How many sessions will I need?Typically 3–6 sessions, spaced one week apart.

Is it safe?Yes — side effects are rare and usually mild (slight redness or tenderness).

Is it covered by insurance?Some insurers cover shockwave. We can help you check your policy.

Why choose RED Physiotherapy Northampton?

✔ Experienced physiotherapists trained in shockwave therapy.✔ Same-day and next-day availability.✔ Family-run clinic trusted in Northampton.✔ Evidence-based care combining shockwave with physio.✔ Honest advice — if it’s not right for you, we’ll tell you.

Take action today

If you’re struggling with tendonitis, bursitis, or plantar fasciitis, don’t let chronic pain control your life. Shockwave therapy is fast, safe, and proven to work.

👉 Book your shockwave therapy in Northampton today:Book an appointment with RED Physiotherapy Northampton