Shockwave therapy for Achilles

Shockwave therapy is effective for Achilles tendon problems because it stimulates the body’s natural healing process in an area with poor blood supply and slow recovery. The treatment increases circulation, breaks down damaged tissue, and activates cells involved in repair. This can reduce pain and improve function, especially in long-standing or chronic cases where other treatments have not provided sufficient relief.

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This is what our customers think about Shockwave therapy

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Struggled with tennis elbow. Good follow-up with exercises and shockwave therapy made me pain-free after just 4 treatments. Recommended!
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I have been experiencing increasing pain under my heel. At Sandvika Physiotherapy, I received professional and expert help, with shockwave therapy and exercises. Thank you for the excellent service!
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I received excellent help to relieve my tennis elbow through a training program, logging/follow-up, and shockwave therapy. I will definitely return in the future if any other issues arise. Extremely satisfied!

When should you initiate the treatment?

Shockwave therapy for Achilles tendon issues is typically considered when pain has persisted for several weeks or months, and standard treatments such as rest, load management, and strengthening exercises (like eccentric training) have not led to sufficient improvement. Conservative care is usually tried first, but if the condition becomes chronic or symptoms keep returning, shockwave therapy can be a good next step. In cases of chronic tendinopathy, or when faster progress is needed—such as for athletes—it may also be appropriate to start treatment earlier, in consultation with a healthcare provider.

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How is shockwave therapy performed for achilles?

The treatment involves a device that delivers high-frequency shockwaves directly to the painful area, most often within the Achilles tendon itself or at its attachment to the heel bone. Each session typically lasts 5 to 10 minutes, and the intensity is adjusted according to the patient’s pain tolerance. The goal is to stimulate the body’s natural healing process, reduce pain, and break down damaged or thickened tissue. This treatment is especially used in long-standing or chronic cases of Achilles tendinopathy, where healing has stalled and the tissue needs extra stimulation to restart the recovery process.

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What is the typical number of treatments?

For Achilles tendon issues, the typical number of shockwave therapy sessions is between 3 and 6, depending on the severity and duration of the condition, as well as how the body responds. Treatments are usually spaced one week apart to allow the tissue time to react and begin the healing process between sessions.

Some people notice improvement after just a couple of sessions, while others may require the full series to see results. In more chronic or complex cases, additional treatments may be needed, based on individual assessment by the therapist.

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What other measures are important in combination with shockwave therapy?

In combination with shockwave therapy for Achilles tendon issues, several additional measures are important to support healing and achieve lasting results. Key strategies include:

  • Load management
    Avoid activities that cause pain—especially running and jumping—and adjust training volume based on pain levels.
  • Specific exercises
    Eccentric strengthening exercises for the Achilles tendon (such as heel drops on a step) are well-documented and important for rebuilding tendon strength and function.
  • Stretching and mobility
    Stretching the calf and hamstring muscles can help reduce tension on the tendon and improve overall flexibility.
  • Footwear and insoles
    Wearing well-cushioned shoes and, if needed, custom insoles can help reduce stress on the tendon during daily activities.
  • Cold therapy when needed
    Applying ice after activity can help reduce irritation and relieve pain.
  • Gradual return to activity
    As pain decreases, it's important to reintroduce activity slowly and progressively to avoid reinjury.
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