Shockwave Therapy for De Quervain's Tenosynovitis

Focused shockwave therapy (fSWT) is a non-invasive treatment option for De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, offering reduced fibrotic tissue, pain relief, reduced inflammation, and enhanced tissue healing. When combined with other therapies such as manual therapy, splinting, and exercise rehabilitation, it provides a comprehensive approach that addresses both the symptoms and underlying causes of the condition.
This holistic treatment strategy helps clients recover more quickly and also reduces the risk of recurrence, enabling them to regain full function of their thumb, and provides an alternative to more traditional treatments, including surgery.
How does it work? | Treatment protocol | Benefits | When to consider fSWT
What Is De Quervain's Tenosynovitis?
De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, also known as De Quervain's Syndrome, is a painful condition affecting the tendons of the thumb. It is typically caused by repetitive or excessive use of the wrist and thumb, which leads to irritation and swelling of the tendons and the sheath surrounding them making it difficult for the tendons to glide smoothly. It specifically affects the Abductor Pollicis Longus (APL) which moves the thumb away from the hand and the Extensor Pollicis Brevis (EPB) which helps extend the thumb.
If you think you have De Quervain's Tenosynovitis and would like some advice then book your FREE phone consultation online now, drop us an email or phone us on 07760 536155 for a quick chat.
How Focused Shockwave Therapy Treats De Quervain's Tenosynovitis
- Reduces pain
- Reduces inflammation
- Promotes healing and tissue regeneration
- Breaks down fibrotic tissue
Book your FREE 30 minute phone consultation online now or drop us an email to find out more about how we can help.
Treatment Protocol for De Quervain's Tenosynovitis
Typical Course
A course of shockwave therapy and physiotherapy for De Quervain's Tenosynovitis usually involves 5 to 8 sessions, spaced about one week apart. Each session lasts 30 minutes. The exact number of sessions may vary depending on the severity of the condition and the client’s response to treatment.
Intensity And Frequency
The intensity and frequency of the shockwaves are carefully adjusted based on the client’s pain tolerance and the characteristics of the condition.
Minimal Downtime
Clients can usually resume normal activities immediately after treatment, although they will be advised to avoid strenuous or high-impact activities for a short period if possible.
Post-Treatment Sensation
Some clients may experience mild soreness or swelling in the treated area. This typically resolves within a few days.
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for De Quervain's Tenosynovitis
Non-Invasive and Non-Surgical
Focused shockwave therapy offers a non-surgical option for treating De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, reducing the need for invasive procedures and minimising the associated risks.
Effective Pain Relief
Many clients experience significant pain relief after just a few sessions, allowing them to return to normal activities with reduced discomfort.
Enhanced Healing
By promoting tissue regeneration and reducing inflammation, shockwave therapy accelerates the healing process, leading to faster recovery times compared to traditional treatments.
Reduced Dependence on Medication
Effective pain management through shockwave therapy can decrease the need for pain medication or anti-inflammatory medication, reducing potential side effects.
Improved Thumb Mobility
As pain decreases and tissue health improves, clients regain normal movement in their thumb and wrist.
High Success Rate
Clinical studies and/or client outcomes indicate that shockwave therapy is highly effective in treating De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, especially in cases where other traditional treatments have failed.
When to Consider Shockwave Therapy for De Quervain's Tenosynovitis
Severity of condition
If movement is affected by scar tissue or adhesions, making the condition more disabling.
High functional demands
For those with high functional demands, such as those whose occupations require fine motor skills or repetitive hand movements.
Severe pain
If the condition causes severe pain, or significant limitations in hand function, that interfere with daily activities or work.
Avoid surgery
If you prefer to avoid surgical intervention and are looking for a non-invasive, effective treatment option.
Standard treatments ineffective
If you have undergone an initial course of standard treatments, such as splinting, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or corticosteroid injections, without significant improvement after 4-6 weeks.
Early intervention with focused shockwave therapy will reduce inflammation and break down scar tissue or adhesions in the tendon sheath, improving movement and preventing the need for surgical intervention.
No commitment, pressure or obligation! Book your FREE 30 minute phone consultation online now or call us for a quick chat.

Nim's magic machine (focused shockwave) is nothing less than miraculous. I first saw Nim 2 years ago with 3 lumbar herniated and degenerated discs, degenerated facets joints and invertebratal endplate degeneration (all confirmed by MRI). The only option I was being offered was spinal fusion once I was in a wheelchair. I had just 6 sessions and I was completely cured and returned to my weightlifting. 2 years later and an accident at work and unfortunately I had new sciatica pain and a new MRI. The MRI confirned a recurring disc protrusion pressing on a nerve and I was pretty much bedridden and in extreme pain. HOWEVER, the new MRI confirmed that one of discs Nim had previously treated was now perfect and rehydrated, the facet joints were normal, the stenosis was cured and the end plates were now only "mildly" degenerated (and the others were cured). To my mind this is absolute scientific, MRI proven testimony to the effectiveness of shockwave. Nim and I are now on our 5th session and I've gone from extreme pain, unable to even wash myself, and lying on the clinic floor crying out in agony (despite very strong painkillers), to being up and about and walking each day. I'm hoping to be back to normal after a few more sessions. For anyone with disc issues seeking to avoid surgery, I can't recommend Nim highly enough! Thanks Nim!
I just recently finished treatment with Nim after suffering with plantar fasciitis and then just as I was due to begin treatment, I unfortunately sprained my foot. Nim’s knowledge and guidance was invaluable and her focused shockwave machine, a godsend. Nim was so supportive and approachable for me in a time that I found difficult both physically and mentally and she was a wonder to work with! After extensive research into other, perhaps less costly options for plantar fasciitis, I decided to bite the bullet after seeing so many great reviews and I’m so glad that I did, I’d never look back now! The treatment has delivered results even better than I could have hoped! Thank you so much Nim !
I play semi-professional cricket and was struggling with a tennis elbow injury. At first, I wasn’t sure if treatment would work, but after receiving care from NIM, I’m genuinely impressed with the results. She guided me with confidence, which really helped boost my own belief in the recovery process.
After just four weeks, the improvement was remarkable. I’m now back playing cricket pain-free. I truly appreciate her support and expertise — highly recommended! Coming from Manchester every week definitely worth for me .
Thank you so much, NIM!
I've been struggling with quadricep tendinopathy for some time, and after receiving shockwave therapy from Nim, I’ve finally been cured! Her treatment was professional, effective, and tailored to my needs. I'm now pain-free, I highly recommend her expertise!
I’ve been dealing with chronic lower back pain and sciatica for years, and after trying countless treatments, I finally found real relief here. Nim has been fantastic from start to finish — professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely caring. I recently had a series of shockwave therapy sessions combined with physiotherapy, and the results have been impressive. I’ve noticed a real reduction in pain and stiffness, and I’m finally able to move more freely again. Highly recommended to anyone struggling with long-term back issues!