Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) has been researched for decades as a non‑surgical option for chronic musculoskeletal injuries. Peer‑reviewed studies describe how acoustic waves break up calcifications, enhance collagen synthesis, release growth factors and stimulate blood flow. Researchers from UT Southwestern report that ESWT accelerates healing for conditions like Achilles tendinopathy, rotator cuff injuries, stress fractures, frozen shoulder, plantar fasciitis and tennis elbow without incisions or downtime. Most patients see long‑term benefits after three fifteen‑minute sessions, and the treatment is FDA‑approved with virtually no side effects.

A 2021 review of randomised controlled trials concludes that ESWT is safe and effective when delivered at three sessions at one‑week intervals with about 2,000 impulses per session. Across studies spanning more than twenty years, shockwave therapy has been as effective as or more effective than other conservative treatments for chronic plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow and calcific shoulder tendinopathy. Adverse events were mild and transient, such as temporary pain or bruising.

At New Life Chiropractic and Wellness, we integrate this evidence into our treatment plans. We recommend shockwave therapy for patients who have not improved with rest, exercise and manual therapy. Our protocols follow published guidelines: three sessions spaced one week apart, with adjustments based on each patient’s condition and tolerance. We combine ESWT with chiropractic adjustments, Active Release Techniques, rehabilitative muscle feedback and corrective exercises to restore joint function and reduce pain. Shockwave therapy is not a cure‑all; rather, it augments rehabilitation and helps tissues heal more quickly. Patients should expect modest improvements over weeks to months and continue other therapies and lifestyle changes.