Shockwave Therapy FAQ

Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) or acoustic wave therapy, is a non-invasive medical treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing in damaged tissues. Originally developed to break down kidney stones, it's now FDA-cleared for treating various musculoskeletal conditions, erectile dysfunction, and aesthetic concerns. The treatment works by triggering the body's natural healing response, improving blood flow, and promoting tissue regeneration.

Shockwave therapy works through three primary mechanisms: 1) Neovascularization - creating new blood vessels to improve circulation, 2) Cellular regeneration - activating stem cells and growth factors for tissue repair, and 3) Breaking down calcifications and scar tissue while stimulating collagen production. The acoustic waves create micro-trauma that triggers these healing responses without causing actual damage to healthy tissue.

Yes, shockwave therapy devices are FDA-cleared for multiple medical conditions. The FDA has approved ESWT for plantar fasciitis, lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow), and other musculoskeletal conditions. Different devices have various FDA clearances depending on their intended use. The technology has been safely used in medicine for over 30 years with millions of treatments performed worldwide.

While both use sound waves, they work very differently. Shockwave therapy uses high-energy acoustic pulses that create mechanical stress to stimulate cellular repair and regeneration. Ultrasound uses continuous low-energy waves primarily for deep tissue heating and temporary pain relief. Shockwave therapy has proven more effective for actually healing tissue rather than just providing temporary symptom relief.

Focused shockwave (F-SW) delivers energy to a specific point deep in the tissue (up to 12cm), making it ideal for conditions like erectile dysfunction, Peyronie's disease, and deep muscle injuries. Radial shockwave (R-SW) disperses energy over a broader, shallower area (up to 4cm), perfect for treating plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, and surface-level conditions. At Multnomah Medical, we use both types depending on your specific condition.

Shockwave therapy has been used medically since the 1980s, initially for breaking down kidney stones (lithotripsy). In the 1990s, researchers discovered its regenerative effects on other tissues. It's been used for orthopedic conditions since the late 1990s and for erectile dysfunction since the early 2000s. Portland's Multnomah Medical Clinic has been providing shockwave therapy for over 10 years.

Most patients describe shockwave therapy as a gentle tapping or mild pressure sensation. The intensity is always adjusted to your comfort level. Some areas may be more sensitive than others, but any discomfort is brief and well-tolerated. Unlike injections or surgery, there's no need for anesthesia or pain medication. About 90% of our patients rate the discomfort as 2-3 out of 10.

A typical shockwave therapy session lasts 15-30 minutes, depending on the condition being treated and the area size. Your first appointment may be longer (45-60 minutes) to include consultation and assessment. The actual treatment time is brief, and there's no recovery period needed - you can return to normal activities immediately after.

Most conditions require 6-12 sessions for optimal results, typically scheduled 1-2 times per week. Acute conditions may respond in 4-6 sessions, while chronic conditions might need 8-12. Some patients see improvement after just 2-3 sessions. Your specific treatment plan will be determined after your initial assessment. Maintenance sessions may be recommended for some conditions.

Your first appointment includes a thorough consultation to review your medical history and assess your condition. We'll explain the treatment process and answer any questions. For the treatment, you'll be comfortably positioned, and ultrasound gel will be applied to the treatment area. The shockwave device will be moved over the area while delivering acoustic pulses. You'll feel a tapping sensation that we'll adjust to your comfort level.

Immediately after treatment, you may experience mild redness or warmth in the treated area, which typically resolves within hours. There's no downtime - you can return to work and normal activities right away. We recommend staying hydrated and avoiding anti-inflammatory medications for 2-3 days to allow the healing process to work optimally. Some patients feel immediate improvement, while others notice gradual changes over several weeks.

Results vary by condition and individual. Some patients experience immediate pain relief or improvement, while others see gradual progress over 2-3 months as tissue regeneration occurs. Most patients notice significant improvement within 4-6 weeks. The healing process continues for several months after treatment completion, with maximum benefits typically seen at 3 months post-treatment.

Yes, you can typically return to exercise immediately after treatment, though we may recommend modifying intense activities for 24-48 hours depending on your condition. Light exercise like walking is actually encouraged as it promotes blood flow and healing. Your practitioner will provide specific guidelines based on your treatment area and condition.

Side effects are minimal and temporary. The most common include mild redness, slight swelling, tingling, or minor soreness in the treatment area for 1-2 days. These are actually positive signs that the healing process has been activated. Unlike surgery or systemic medications, there are no serious side effects, no risk of infection, no scarring, and no systemic reactions. Less than 5% of patients experience any noticeable side effects.

Shockwave therapy is safe for most people, but it's not recommended for: pregnant women, people with bleeding disorders or on blood thinners, those with active cancer in the treatment area, anyone with a pacemaker (for chest/torso treatments), areas with active infection, over metal implants in some cases, and children with open growth plates. We'll conduct a thorough screening to ensure it's safe for you.

Yes, shockwave therapy is generally safe and often beneficial for diabetics, especially those with diabetic neuropathy or poor circulation. The treatment can improve blood flow and nerve function without affecting blood sugar levels. However, we take extra care with diabetic patients who may have reduced sensation. Always inform us of your diabetic status and current medications during consultation.

No, when properly administered, shockwave therapy does not damage healthy tissue. The energy levels used are carefully calibrated to stimulate healing without causing harm. The 'micro-trauma' created is at a cellular level and actually triggers beneficial healing responses. With over 30 years of medical use and millions of treatments performed, tissue damage from proper treatment is virtually unheard of.

No long-term risks have been identified with shockwave therapy in over 30 years of medical use. Unlike repeated steroid injections which can weaken tissue, or long-term medication use which can cause systemic effects, shockwave therapy actually strengthens and regenerates tissue. Studies following patients for years after treatment show sustained benefits without negative effects.

Shockwave therapy costs vary based on the condition being treated and the number of sessions required. Individual sessions typically range from $200-500, with package deals offering significant savings. When compared to the long-term costs of medications, repeated injections, or surgery (including recovery time), most patients find shockwave therapy to be cost-effective. We offer transparent pricing and will provide a detailed cost estimate during your consultation.

Insurance coverage for shockwave therapy varies by provider and condition. Some insurance plans cover it for certain FDA-approved conditions like plantar fasciitis. We recommend checking with your insurance provider about your specific coverage. We provide detailed receipts that you can submit for possible reimbursement or HSA/FSA claims.

Yes, shockwave therapy is typically an eligible expense for Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) when used for medical conditions. We provide detailed medical receipts with appropriate coding for reimbursement. Check with your plan administrator to confirm coverage for your specific condition.

Yes, we offer several payment options to make treatment accessible. We accept CareCredit with no-interest payment plans available for qualified patients. We also offer package deals that reduce the per-session cost when you purchase multiple treatments upfront. Our team will work with you to find a payment solution that fits your budget.

Insurance coverage often lags behind medical innovation. While shockwave therapy has strong clinical evidence and FDA clearance, insurance companies are slow to update coverage policies. They often prefer to cover traditional treatments first, even if they're less effective or more invasive. As more research emerges and demand increases, coverage is gradually expanding.

Yes, shockwave therapy is highly effective for erectile dysfunction (ED), with success rates of 75-85% in clinical studies. It works by improving blood flow to the penis, creating new blood vessels, and regenerating penile tissue. Unlike medications like Viagra that provide temporary help, shockwave therapy addresses the root cause of vascular ED. Most men experience improved spontaneous erections that last for years. Learn more on our ED treatment page.

Yes, shockwave therapy is an effective non-surgical treatment for Peyronie's disease. It helps break down scar tissue (plaque), reduce penile curvature, decrease pain, and improve erectile function. Studies show 60-80% of men experience significant improvement. The treatment is most effective when started early but can help even in chronic cases. It's a safer alternative to surgery with no risk of penile shortening.

Shockwave therapy is one of the most effective treatments for chronic plantar fasciitis, with success rates of 80-90%. It's particularly beneficial for cases that haven't responded to conventional treatments like stretching, orthotics, or injections. Most patients experience significant pain reduction and improved function within 4-6 weeks. The treatment addresses both the inflammation and promotes healing of the plantar fascia. Learn more on our soft tissue treatment page.

Yes, shockwave therapy shows promising results for peripheral neuropathy, particularly diabetic neuropathy. It works by improving blood flow to nerves, stimulating nerve regeneration, and reducing inflammation. Patients typically report reduced burning, tingling, and numbness, along with improved sensation. While individual results vary, studies show 70-80% of patients experience significant improvement. Visit our neuropathy treatment page for details.

Absolutely. Shockwave therapy is FDA-approved for lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) with success rates of 75-85%. It's especially effective for chronic cases that haven't responded to rest, physical therapy, or injections. The treatment breaks down scar tissue, stimulates healing, and reduces pain. Most patients return to normal activities without restrictions after 4-6 treatments.

Yes, shockwave therapy is an effective non-invasive treatment for cellulite. It works by breaking down fibrous bands, improving lymphatic drainage, stimulating collagen production, and enhancing skin elasticity. Clinical studies show visible improvement in 80-90% of patients. Results are typically seen after 6-8 sessions and can last 1-2 years with proper maintenance. Learn more on our aesthetics page.

Yes, shockwave therapy can be effective for various types of chronic back pain, including myofascial pain, trigger points, and muscle tension. It helps by reducing muscle tension, improving blood flow, breaking down scar tissue, and stimulating healing. While it may not be suitable for all types of back pain (like disc herniation), many patients experience significant relief when the pain source is muscular or related to soft tissue.

Yes, shockwave therapy is highly effective for various shoulder conditions including rotator cuff tendinitis, calcific tendinitis, frozen shoulder, and bursitis. It helps break down calcium deposits, reduce inflammation, and stimulate tissue repair. Success rates range from 70-85% depending on the specific condition. Many patients avoid surgery through shockwave therapy treatment.

Both are regenerative treatments, but they work differently. Shockwave therapy is completely non-invasive, requires no blood draw, and has no injection risks. PRP requires drawing your blood, processing it, and injecting it back. Shockwave therapy typically costs less and has more extensive research support for many conditions. Some patients benefit from combining both treatments. The best choice depends on your specific condition and preferences.

For long-term results, yes. Steroid injections provide temporary relief (3-6 months) but don't heal tissue and can actually weaken it with repeated use. Shockwave therapy promotes actual tissue healing with results lasting years. While steroids work faster for immediate pain relief, shockwave therapy provides sustainable improvement without the risks of repeated steroid use, including tissue damage and systemic effects.

Shockwave therapy offers several advantages over surgery: no incisions or scarring, no anesthesia risks, no recovery time, no time off work, lower cost, and no surgical complications. Success rates are comparable for many conditions (70-90%). Surgery may be necessary for severe structural problems, but shockwave therapy helps many patients avoid surgery altogether. It's often recommended to try shockwave therapy before considering surgical options.

For many conditions, yes. Shockwave therapy addresses root causes rather than just masking symptoms like medications do. For example, men with ED often no longer need Viagra after treatment, and neuropathy patients may reduce or eliminate pain medications. However, never stop prescribed medications without consulting your doctor. Shockwave therapy can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan to reduce medication dependence.

Both have their place, but shockwave therapy generally provides deeper penetration and more powerful biological effects. Laser therapy primarily reduces inflammation and provides temporary pain relief. Shockwave therapy actually regenerates tissue, improves blood flow, and breaks down scar tissue. For structural problems and tissue damage, shockwave therapy is typically more effective. Some conditions benefit from combining both modalities.

Success rates vary by condition but generally range from 70-90%. Specific success rates include: Plantar fasciitis (80-90%), Erectile dysfunction (75-85%), Tennis elbow (75-85%), Calcific tendinitis (80-90%), Achilles tendinopathy (70-80%), and Neuropathy (70-80%). Success is typically defined as significant improvement in symptoms and function. Individual results depend on factors like condition severity, overall health, and treatment compliance.

Results from shockwave therapy are typically long-lasting because the treatment addresses root causes and promotes actual tissue regeneration. Most patients experience benefits for 2-5 years or more. For erectile dysfunction, studies show sustained improvement at 2-year follow-ups. For musculoskeletal conditions, results often last indefinitely if the original cause (like overuse) is addressed. Some conditions may benefit from occasional maintenance treatments.

While shockwave therapy has high success rates, it doesn't work for everyone. If you don't see improvement after a full treatment course, we'll reassess your condition and discuss alternatives. Sometimes a different protocol, combining treatments, or addressing contributing factors improves results. The treatment doesn't cause harm or limit future treatment options, so you can still pursue other therapies if needed.

Yes, shockwave therapy can be safely repeated if needed. Unlike steroid injections which have limits, or surgery which creates scar tissue, shockwave therapy can be repeated without causing damage. Some patients benefit from maintenance sessions every 6-12 months, especially for chronic conditions. If symptoms return after initial success, a shorter course of treatment usually restores benefits.

Results can be long-lasting or permanent depending on the condition. For structural problems that are fully healed (like plantar fasciitis or tennis elbow), results are often permanent if you address the original cause. For degenerative conditions (like ED or arthritis), results last years but may require maintenance as aging continues. The tissue regeneration and improved blood flow created by treatment provide lasting benefits.

Multnomah Medical Clinic, located in Happy Valley (Portland area), is the region's most experienced shockwave therapy provider with over 10 years of experience and 5,000+ treatments performed. We're conveniently located at 9200 SE 91st Ave Suite 300, with easy access from throughout the Portland metro area. Our clinic specializes exclusively in shockwave therapy and related regenerative treatments.

The best way to determine if you're a good candidate is through a consultation at our Portland clinic. Good candidates typically have: chronic conditions lasting 3+ months, conditions that haven't fully responded to conservative treatment, desire to avoid surgery or medications, and no contraindications. We offer consultations to assess your specific situation and determine if shockwave therapy is right for you. Book a consultation to find out.

We're Portland's most experienced shockwave therapy clinic with over 10 years specializing in ESWT. We use authentic Swiss Storz Medical equipment (the gold standard), have performed 5,000+ treatments, maintain an 85% average success rate, and offer customized protocols for each patient. Our practitioners receive ongoing advanced training, and we're one of the few clinics offering both focused and radial shockwave therapy.

Yes, we regularly treat patients from throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington. Many patients travel from Seattle, Eugene, Salem, Bend, and beyond for our specialized treatments. We can often consolidate appointments for out-of-town patients to minimize travel. Our Happy Valley location is easily accessible from I-205 and I-84, with ample free parking available.

Please bring: photo ID, insurance card (if hoping for coverage), list of current medications, any relevant medical records or imaging, comfortable clothing that allows access to the treatment area, and payment method. If you've had previous treatments elsewhere, bring those records. No special preparation is needed - you can eat normally and take your regular medications.