Shockwave Therapy in Philadelphia, PA

Non-Invasive Treatment for Chronic Pain, Tendon Injuries, and Soft Tissue Conditions

If you’ve been dealing with chronic pain, tendon injuries, plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, or a nagging condition that just won’t heal, shockwave therapy may provide the breakthrough you’ve been looking for.

At Summit Spine & Wellness, we use advanced shockwave therapy to stimulate the body’s natural healing response, improve circulation, and help patients recover from musculoskeletal injuries without surgery, injections, or long-term medication use.

This innovative treatment has become increasingly popular among athletes, active adults, and individuals seeking alternatives to more invasive procedures.

What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), uses high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate healing within injured tissues.

These sound waves penetrate deep into muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and other soft tissues, helping promote cellular activity and supporting the body’s natural repair processes.

Shockwave therapy is commonly used for chronic conditions that have been slow to respond to traditional treatment approaches.

How Shockwave Therapy Works

When tissue becomes injured, the body typically initiates a healing response.

However, in some chronic conditions, healing may slow or stall, leaving patients with ongoing pain, inflammation, and reduced function.

Shockwave therapy helps stimulate biological responses that may support recovery by

Increasing blood flow to the treatment area
Stimulating cellular repair activity
Supporting tissue regeneration
Improving circulation and oxygen delivery
Reducing pain sensitivity
Helping break down dysfunctional scar tissue and adhesions
Encouraging healthy tissue remodeling
The result is often improved healing, reduced pain, and better overall function.

The result is often improved healing, reduced pain, and better overall function.

Shockwave therapy is frequently used to address

Plantar Fasciitis

One of the most researched applications of shockwave therapy, plantar fasciitis often responds well when conservative treatments have not provided lasting relief.

Tennis Elbow and Golfer's Elbow

Chronic tendon irritation in the elbow can be difficult to resolve without targeted treatment.

Achilles Tendonitis

Shockwave therapy may help stimulate healing in chronically irritated Achilles tendons.

Shoulder Pain

Conditions involving the rotator cuff and surrounding structures may benefit from shockwave treatment.

Knee Pain

Certain tendon and overuse injuries affecting the knee can respond well to shockwave therapy.

Tendonitis and Tendinopathy

Shockwave therapy is commonly used for chronic tendon conditions throughout the body.

Scar Tissue and Soft Tissue Restrictions

Acoustic waves may help improve mobility and tissue quality in areas affected by scar tissue formation.

Sports Injuries

Athletes often use shockwave therapy to support recovery and return to activity more efficiently.

Additional conditions that may benefit include

Bursitis
Shin splints
Morton’s neuroma
Joint pain
Muscle strains
Neck pain
Back pain
Sciatica
Repetitive stress injuries

Benefits of Shockwave Therapy

Patients often choose shockwave therapy because it is:

Non-invasive
Drug-free
Surgery-free
Performed in-office
Quick and convenient
Compatible with other rehabilitation therapies
Potential benefits include
Reduced pain
Improved mobility
Faster recovery
Increased circulation
Improved tissue healing
Better athletic performance
Reduced chronic inflammation
Enhanced function during daily activities

What to Expect During Treatment

Shockwave therapy is performed in our office and typically takes approximately 10–15 minutes.

During treatment

  1. A conductive gel is applied to the treatment area.
  2. A handheld applicator delivers acoustic waves to the affected tissues.
  3. Treatment intensity is adjusted based on your condition and comfort level.

Most patients tolerate treatment well. Some areas may feel mildly sensitive during treatment, particularly if significant inflammation is present.

Temporary soreness after treatment is possible and generally resolves quickly.

How Many Treatments Are Needed?

The number of treatments depends on your diagnosis, the severity of your condition, and how long symptoms have been present.

Many patients begin noticing improvement within several sessions, while more chronic conditions may require additional treatment.

Your provider will create a personalized treatment plan based on your goals and response to care.

Shockwave Therapy as Part of a Comprehensive Recovery Plan

At Summit Spine & Wellness, shockwave therapy is often combined with other therapies to maximize results.

Depending on your condition, your treatment plan may include

Chiropractic adjustments
Myofascial release therapy
Corrective exercises
Rehabilitation programs
Mobility training
Stretching protocols
Sports recovery strategies
Addressing both the injured tissue and the underlying biomechanical factors contributing to the problem often leads to better long-term outcomes.

Who Is a Candidate for Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy may be appropriate for patients experiencing

Chronic tendon pain
Plantar fasciitis
Sports injuries
Soft tissue injuries
Repetitive stress injuries
Chronic musculoskeletal pain
Scar tissue restrictions
However, treatment may not be appropriate for everyone.

Individuals who are pregnant, have certain medical conditions, or have specific implanted medical devices may not be candidates. A thorough evaluation will help determine whether shockwave therapy is right for you.

Schedule a Consultation

If pain, stiffness, or a slow-healing injury is preventing you from enjoying the activities you love, shockwave therapy may provide a non-surgical path toward recovery.

Contact Summit Spine & Wellness today to schedule an evaluation and learn whether shockwave therapy is right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does shockwave therapy hurt?

Most patients tolerate treatment very well. Some discomfort may occur in particularly sensitive areas, but treatment is generally brief and manageable. 

How long does a shockwave therapy session take?
Most treatments take approximately 10–15 minutes, depending on the size and location of the treatment area.
How many shockwave therapy sessions will I need?
Treatment recommendations vary by condition. Many patients undergo a series of treatments to achieve the best results.
Is shockwave therapy safe?
Shockwave therapy has been widely studied and is considered safe when administered by trained healthcare professionals.
Can shockwave therapy help plantar fasciitis?
Yes. Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common conditions treated with shockwave therapy and has been extensively researched.
Can shockwave therapy help sports injuries?
Many athletes use shockwave therapy to support recovery from tendon injuries, overuse injuries, and chronic soft tissue conditions.
Is there downtime after treatment?
Most patients return to normal activities immediately following treatment, although activity modifications may be recommended depending on the condition being treated.
Will insurance cover shockwave therapy?
Coverage varies by insurance plan. Our team can discuss treatment options and payment information during your consultation.