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.


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!