Shockwave therapy uses focused acoustic waves to support the management of selected soft-tissue conditions — particularly plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy and certain other tendon presentations. It's an adjunct to physiotherapy treatment, not a standalone product, and it isn't appropriate for every condition. Available at all three of our clinics. To book, call (03) 9746 6852 or book online.
What shockwave therapy is
Shockwave therapy (extracorporeal shock wave therapy, or ESWT) uses high-energy acoustic pulses delivered through a handheld applicator. The pulses pass through skin and target the affected tendon or soft tissue. The treatment is done over multiple short sessions, usually weekly. Most patients describe the sessions as briefly uncomfortable but tolerable.
Shockwave is supported by clinical evidence for specific tendon conditions where conservative care alone hasn't worked. It's not a quick fix and outcomes vary between people.
Conditions where shockwave may help
- Plantar fasciitis that hasn't responded to initial conservative care
- Achilles tendinopathy (insertional and mid-portion)
- Patellar tendinopathy (jumper's knee)
- Lateral epicondylalgia (tennis elbow) in selected presentations
- Gluteal tendinopathy in selected presentations
- Calcific tendinopathy of the shoulder
Suitability depends on the diagnosis, how long the condition has been present, and what other treatments have been tried. Your physiotherapist will assess whether shockwave is appropriate as part of your plan.
Who shockwave is not suitable for
- Pregnant women
- People with bleeding disorders or on certain anticoagulant medications
- People with active infection at the treatment site
- People with cancer in the treatment area
- People under 18 (for most presentations)
- People with pacemakers (in some shockwave devices) — your clinician will check
What a session involves
- Brief physiotherapy assessment to confirm shockwave is appropriate.
- Application of gel and the shockwave applicator to the target area for 5–10 minutes.
- Most sessions are 15–20 minutes total.
- Some people feel some local soreness afterwards; we discuss what to expect.
Typical course is 3–5 weekly sessions, with progress reviewed throughout. Treatment is usually combined with progressive exercise rehabilitation.
Locations
- Melton — 7/211–223 Barries Road, Melton West.
- Hoppers Crossing — 369 Morris Road, Hoppers Crossing.
- Sunbury — 16-18 O'Shanassy Street, Sunbury (by appointment).
Funding and payment options
- Private health insurance — HICAPS on-site for on-the-spot claiming.
- Medicare EPC / Chronic Disease Management — eligible patients with a GP plan.
- WorkCover, TAC, NDIS, DVA — where eligible.
- Private payment — accepted. Contact reception for current fees.
Funding eligibility depends on your circumstances, referral, claim approval and appointment type. Please contact reception if unsure.
Frequently asked questions
Does shockwave hurt?
Most people find it briefly uncomfortable rather than painful. Intensity is adjusted to your tolerance.
How many sessions will I need?
Typically 3–5 weekly sessions, depending on the condition and how you respond.
Will shockwave fix my heel pain on its own?
Shockwave is one tool. Most plantar fasciitis responds best to a combination of exercise, footwear changes and (where appropriate) shockwave. Your physiotherapist will discuss the full plan.
Can I get shockwave without seeing a physiotherapist first?
Not as part of our service. We need a brief assessment to confirm shockwave is appropriate before treatment.
Ready to book?
Call (03) 9746 6852 or book online.
Related: physiotherapy · sports physiotherapy · foot & ankle pain · all services
Reviewed by Joseph Louka, AHPRA-registered Physiotherapist · Last reviewed 2026-05-29.
