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EXTRACORPOREAL SHOCKWAVE THERAPY
What Is Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)?
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive orthopedic therapy used to support healing in musculoskeletal conditions involving tendons, soft tissue, and areas of chronic irritation. At Hero Medical Center, ESWT is used conservatively and purposefully—often as a standalone option for select conditions or as a complement to a broader regenerative care plan.
Our team focuses on careful evaluation and patient education to determine whether ESWT may be appropriate based on diagnosis, activity level, and treatment goals.
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ESWT delivers controlled acoustic pressure waves to targeted tissues from outside the body (extracorporeal). These waves are designed to stimulate local physiologic responses that may help support tissue repair and circulation in musculoskeletal structures.
ESWT does not involve injections or surgery and is typically well-tolerated. (ESWT is sometimes referred to as “radial shockwave therapy.”)
How ESWT Is Used at Hero Medical Center
At Hero Medical Center, ESWT is used for orthopedic and sports-related conditions where conservative, non-invasive options may be beneficial.
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ESWT may be considered to:
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✦ Support tendon and soft-tissue recovery
✦ Address chronic overuse or repetitive-strain conditions
✦ Encourage local circulation in targeted areas
✦ Complement regenerative or rehabilitative care
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Treatment decisions are individualized and based on clinical findings—not on a standardized protocol.
Conditions Where ESWT May Be Considered
Depending on medical evaluation, ESWT may be discussed for conditions such as:
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✦ Plantar fasciitis
✦ Achilles tendinopathy
✦ Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
✦ Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis)
✦ Shoulder tendinopathy
✦ Patellar tendinopathy
✦ Chronic soft-tissue irritation or strain
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Not all patients or conditions are appropriate for ESWT. Suitability is determined during consultation.
Who May Be a Good Candidate?
ESWT may be appropriate for patients who:
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✦ Have chronic musculoskeletal symptoms
✦ Prefer non-invasive supportive options
✦ Have not responded fully to rest or conservative care
✦ Are seeking supportive therapies before considering invasive options
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A medical evaluation is required to determine candidacy.
​What to Expect
​​​✦ Sessions are typically brief and performed in-office
✦ Treatment frequency and number of sessions vary
✦ Mild discomfort during treatment may occur
✦ Post-treatment soreness is possible but usually temporary
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Your care team will review expectations, timelines, and any activity recommendations during consultation.
Our Philosophy on ESWT
At Hero Medical Center, ESWT is:
Evidence-informed, not trend-driven
Orthopedic-focused, not generalized wellness
​Adjunctive or conservative, not a guaranteed solution
We emphasize realistic expectations, appropriate use, and patient education as part of responsible care.
Conditions Where This Therapy May Be Considered
​​​✦ Knee pain or osteoarthritis
✦ Shoulder pain and rotator cuff conditions
