Shockwave Therapy for Triceps Tendinopathy

Focused shockwave therapy (fSWT), also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment option for triceps tendinopathy, helping to reduce pain, reduce inflammation, promote tendon healing, and restore function.
It is most effective when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes physiotherapy and activity modification that addresses both the symptoms and underlying causes of the condition leading to a faster recovery.
How does it work? | Treatment protocol | Benefits | When to consider fSWT
What Is Triceps Tendinopathy?
Triceps tendinopathy involves inflammation, degeneration, or micro tears of the triceps tendons that connect the triceps muscle to the shoulder and the elbow. This condition often results from overuse, repetitive strain, or acute injury and can lead to pain, weakness, and decreased function of the arm. It can occur either at the shoulder (proximal triceps tendinopathy) or the elbow (distal triceps tendinopathy).
This condition is typically presents with:
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Pain
Localised at the back of the elbow, especially during activities involving elbow extension (e.g., pushing or throwing motions).
Swelling
Mild swelling around the affected tendon may be present.
Weakness
Difficulty or weakness in extending the elbow or pushing objects.
If you think you have a triceps 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 Triceps Tendinopathy
- Reduces pain and inflammation
- Promotes healing and tissue repair
- Reduces fibrotic tissue and calcifications
- Improves tendon 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 Triceps Tendinopathy
Typical Course
A course of shockwave therapy for triceps 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 tendinopathy.
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 Triceps Tendinopathy
Non-Invasive
Focused shockwave therapy is a non-surgical treatment, avoiding the risks and recovery time associated with surgical intervention.
Effective Pain Relief
Many clients experience significant pain reduction after just a few sessions, improving their quality of life and ability to perform daily activities.
Accelerated Healing
Shockwave therapy promotes faster healing of the triceps tendon, often reducing the overall recovery time compared to other treatments.
Long Lasting Results
By addressing the root causes of triceps tendinopathy, focused shockwave therapy provides long-term relief and reduces the likelihood of recurrence.
High Success Rate
Clinical studies and/or client outcomes indicate that shockwave therapy is highly effective in treating triceps tendinopathy, especially in cases where other traditional treatments have failed.
When to Consider Shockwave Therapy for Triceps Tendinopathy
Severe pain is limiting activity
If the pain is severe and significantly impacts daily activities, work or otherwise.
High functional demands
For those who have high functional demands, eg athletes or manual labourers.
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.
Calcium deposits
If imaging investigations (e.g., X-rays, ultrasound) show calcium deposits in the tendons (calcific tendonitis), fSWT is effective in breaking down these calcifications, which can reduce pain and improve function.
Tendon degeneration
If there is significant tendon degeneration, suggesting that the tendinopathy is unlikely to
resolve quickly with traditional measures alone.
Early intervention with focused shockwave therapy can reduce inflammation and stimulate healing in the triceps tendon, potentially preventing long-term damage or functional loss.
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.