Shockwave Therapy for Shoulder Impingement
Focused shockwave therapy (fSWT) is a highly effective non-invasive treatment option for shoulder impingement. It can provide pain relief, promote healing, reduce inflammation, break down scar tissue, and improve shoulder function leading to a faster recovery.
When combined with other physiotherapy modalities such as manual therapy, exercise rehabilitation, and ergonomic advice, it provides 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 Shoulder Impingement?
Shoulder impingement occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles or bursa (a fluid-filled sac that reduces friction) in the shoulder become compressed or "impinged" during arm movement. This can lead to pain, inflammation, and limited mobility. This condition is often caused by overhead activities and lifting objects away from the body.
If you think you have shoulder impingement 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 Shoulder Impingement
- Reduces pain
- Promotes tissue healing
- Breaks down scar tissue
- Reduces inflammation
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 Shoulder Impingement
Typical Course
A course of shockwave therapy and physiotherapy for shoulder impingement 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 Shoulder Impingement
Non-Invasive and Safe
Focused shockwave therapy offers a non-surgical option for treating shoulder impingement, 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 may decrease the need for pain medicatio or anti-inflammatory medication, reducing potential side effects.
Improved Functionality
As the inflammation and scar tissue is reduced and strength is restored, clients often regain full use of their shoulder, enabling them to return to activities that were previously painful.
High Success Rate
Clinical studies and/or client outcomes indicate that shockwave therapy is highly effective in treating shoulder impingement, especially in cases where other traditional treatments have failed.
When to Consider Shockwave Therapy for Shoulder Impingement
Fast recovery
If there is an urgent need to return to regular activities, physical work or sports.
Contributary conditions
When conditions like rotator cuff tendinopathy, subacromial bursitis, or chronic shoulder tendinitis contribute to impingement as these conditions can respond well to shockwave therapy.
Chronic or recurring
If the shoulder impingement symptoms are chronic or tend to recur even after periods of improvement, or there is underlying tissue damage that has not fully healed.
Calcium deposits
If imaging investigations (e.g., X-rays, ultrasound) show calcium deposits in the shoulder tendons (calcific tendonitis).
To avoid surgery
If there is a preference to avoid surgical intervention like arthroscopic surgery.
To avoid or reduce medication
For those who wish to avoid or minimise the use of medications, such as anti-inflammatories or corticosteroid injections, due to potential side effects.
Early intervention with focused shockwave therapy may relieve pain and inflammation, promoting healing of irritated tissues and improving shoulder function before more invasive treatments are needed.
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.
