Shockwave Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
Focused shockwave therapy (fSWT) is a highly effective non-invasive treatment option for rotator cuff tendinopathy, providing pain relief, promoting tendon healing, and improving shoulder function with minimal downtime. It is an excellent option for clients seeking a faster recovery, or to avoid surgery, or for those who have not found relief through other traditional treatments.
When combined with other physiotherapy modalities such as manual therapy, and exercise rehabilitation, it can provide a comprehensive approach that addresses both the symptoms and underlying causes of the condition.
How does it work? | Treatment protocol | Benefits | When to consider fSWT
What Is Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy?
Rotator cuff tendinopathy is a condition characterised by pain and dysfunction in the shoulder due to inflammation or degeneration of the tendons that make up the rotator cuff. The rotator cuff consists of four muscles and their associated tendons, which stabilise the shoulder joint and allow for a wide range of shoulder movements especially internal rotation (hand in back pocket) and external rotation (hand behind head). Tendinopathy in this area often results from repetitive overhead activities, aging, or trauma.
If you think you have a rotator cuff tendinopathy 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 Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
- Reduces pain and inflammation
- Stimulates tendon healing and repair
- Breaks down scar tissue
- Improves shoulder function and mobility
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 Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
Typical Course
A course of shockwave therapy and physiotherapy for rotator cuff tendinopathy 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 Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
Non-Invasive and Safe
Focused shockwave therapy offers a non-surgical option for treating rotator cuff tendinopathy, 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 Functionality
As the tendon heals and strength is restored, clients often regain full use of their shoulder, enabling them to return to sports or other activities that were previously painful.
High Success Rate
Clinical studies and/or client outcomes indicate that shockwave therapy is highly effective in treating rotator cuff tendinopathy, especially in cases where other traditional treatments have failed.
When to Consider Shockwave Therapy for a Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
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Quick recovery
If there is a need for quick recovery, such as an upcoming event, competition, or work-related requirement.
Intense pain is limiting mobility
If the pain is intense and significantly limits your shoulder mobility and ability to perform daily activities.
History of tendinopathy
If you have a history of rotator cuff tendinopathy or other shoulder issues that have been resistant to standard treatments.
Calcific deposits
If diagnostic imaging (e.g., MRI, ultrasound) shows significant tendon degeneration, calcific deposits, or other abnormalities.
Rapid degeneration
If the symptoms have rapidly worsened despite other forms of treatment.
Non surgical
For individuals looking to avoid corticosteroid injections or surgical options.
Focused shockwave therapy applied early can stimulate tissue healing and reduce pain, potentially preventing the condition from progressing to chronic tendon degeneration.
No commitment, pressure or obligation! Book your FREE 30 minute phone consultation online now or call us for a quick chat.
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!
I can't recommend Nim enough - she isn't just a shockwave therapist (which is an amazing type of therapy in itself) but she's also a very practised and knowledgeable physiotherapist. I've been to conventional physio (both private and on the NHS) and nothing has looked at actually solving the problem that causes the pain, leading to a worsening condition of the joint itself and ever increasing pain. Nim has stopped all of that, and been able to use a holistic approach and combine it with shockwave and her specialist knowledge to treat the problem, not just the symptoms. I regret the years spent with other treatments and wish I had found her sooner!
I have known Nim now for two years and her treatment and expertise with her shock wave machine has been exceptionally good. First and foremost, Nim is very knowledgeable about her profession with vast experience in the areas of physiotherapy and shock wave treatment. More recently I have been treated with various problems on my legs mainly tendonopathy/tendonosis around my Achilles and hamstrings /thighs. The treatment is excellent, Nim explains the problems clearly and offers advice and consultation throughout the two months I’ve been seeing her. I’m very grateful as I have had pain for several years and can finally see a path forward without pain. I can highly recommend her and her treatment/facilities!! And thank you Nim!
My trigger finger bothered me so much that I could not use my right hand. After receiving treatment from Nim for just 5 times, I regained 90% of the function. Then I waited another month for it to recover, my hand is almost completely normal now.
My trigger finger bothered me so much that I could not use my right hand. After receiving treatment from Nim for just 5 times, I regained 90% of the function. Then I waited another month for it to recover, my hand is almost completely normal now.
