What to Expect During Your First Shockwave Therapy Session

If you've been recommended shockwave therapy, you might be wondering what the treatment actually involves. Understanding the process can help ease any anxiety and ensure you get the most out of your sessions. Here's a step-by-step guide to your first appointment.

Your session will begin with a brief consultation where your practitioner reviews your medical history and discusses your specific condition. They'll explain how the treatment works, answer any questions you have, and outline what you can expect during and after the session.

Next, you'll be positioned comfortably on a treatment table. The practitioner will locate the exact area requiring treatment, often using palpation to identify the most tender or affected points. A coupling gel is applied to the skin to help conduct the acoustic waves effectively.

During the treatment itself, the practitioner uses a handheld device to deliver the shockwaves to the targeted area. You'll feel a tapping or pulsing sensation, and some areas may be more sensitive than others. Most patients describe the sensation as uncomfortable but tolerable. The intensity can be adjusted to your comfort level.

A typical session lasts 15-20 minutes, depending on the condition being treated and the number of areas involved. You may receive between 2,000-3,000 shockwave pulses during a single session.

After treatment, you can usually return to normal activities immediately, though your practitioner may recommend avoiding high-impact activities for 24-48 hours. Some temporary redness or soreness at the treatment site is normal. You'll be scheduled for follow-up sessions, typically one week apart, with most treatment plans involving 3-6 sessions total.