Here's what to expect and what to do in the days following your session.
Expect aching in the treated area for 24–72 hours. This is normal and a sign your body is responding.
Some surface redness or light bruising may appear. This is tissue responding to the acoustic waves, not damage.
Symptoms may briefly feel worse before they improve, particularly after the first 1–2 sessions. This is expected.
Light activity only for 24-48 hours. Gentle walking is fine; avoid stressing the treated area.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Hydration supports the tissue repair process shockwave initiates.
Follow your physiotherapist's specific exercise treatment plan. Gentle stretching and light activity is generally encouraged to improve circulation and reduce stiffness to the area.
Acetaminophen is safe for pain relief after shockwave. It does not interfere with the inflammatory healing response.
Protein-rich foods and quality sleep the first two nights support tissue repair.
Shockwave therapy works by triggering a natural inflammatory healing response. Anti-inflammatory medications may reduce the effectiveness of the treatment. Try to avoid the use of anti-inflammatory medications unless indicated otherwise by your doctor.
Avoid high impact, heavy lifting, and strenuous exercises for 24-48 hours.
Skip hot baths, hot tubs, and heating pads on the treated area for the first 24 hours.
Alcohol increases inflammation and impairs recovery.
Avoid cortisone or steroid injections near the treated area during your course of treatment.
Recovery varies considerably from person to person. The nature of your condition, how long you have had it, your overall health, and how your body responds to treatment all affect your progress. Your physiotherapist will track your response at each session and adjust your plan accordingly. If you have questions about how things are going, bring them to your next appointment.
Shockwave therapy works by triggering a natural inflammatory healing response. Anti-inflammatory medications may reduce the effectiveness of the treatment. Try to avoid them unless indicated otherwise by your doctor. Tylenol (acetaminophen) is safe for pain relief as it does not suppress inflammation.
Yes. An initial flare-up indicates your tissue is responding. It typically resolves within 24–48 hours and gives way to gradual improvement. Most patients feel noticeably better after session 3.
Light activity is fine immediately. High-impact activity should wait at least 48 hours. Your therapist will give specific guidance based on your condition.
Most conditions respond well to 4–6 sessions spaced approximately one week apart. Your therapist will assess progress throughout and adjust the plan.