Shockwave therapy. Evidence-based relief.

What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy — also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) uses high-energy acoustic waves delivered through the skin to targeted areas of injured or degenerated tissue.

These sound waves stimulate the body's natural healing response by:

• Increasing blood flow to the affected area
• Breaking down calcific deposits within tendons
• Stimulating collagen production and tissue repair
• Disrupting pain signals in the treated area
• Accelerating recovery in chronic, slow-healing conditions

Shockwave is particularly effective for conditions where tissue has undergone degenerative change over time, making it an excellent option for patients with long-standing pain that has not responded to more conservative treatments.

Conditions We Treat

At Sydney Podiatry Co, shockwave therapy is used to treat a broad range of musculoskeletal conditions of the foot and lower limb, including:

• Plantar fasciitis and chronic heel pain
• Achilles tendinopathy
• Insertional Achilles pain
• Shin splints (medial tibial stress syndrome)
• Peroneal tendinopathy
• Tibialis posterior tendinopathy
• Calcific tendonitis
• Chronic calf tightness and muscle pain
• General overuse injuries of the foot and ankle

If you have a condition not listed above, speak to one of our podiatrists. Shockwave therapy has a wide range of applications, and your suitability can be assessed at your appointment.

The EMS Swiss DolorClast

At Sydney Podiatry Co, we use the EMS Swiss DolorClast, a gold-standard radial shockwave device used by podiatrists, physiotherapists and sports medicine clinicians worldwide.

The DolorClast is backed by an extensive body of peer-reviewed clinical research and is widely regarded as one of the most effective and reliable devices available for outpatient shockwave treatment. Not all shockwave machines are equal in terms of energy output, depth of penetration or evidence base. Using a clinically validated device matters.

What to Expect

Your podiatrist will begin with a thorough assessment to confirm your diagnosis and determine whether shockwave is the most appropriate treatment for your condition.

During treatment, a handheld applicator is applied to the skin over the affected area. Most patients experience a deep pulsing sensation during treatment, which can be mildly uncomfortable over the most tender areas. This is normal and settles quickly after the session ends.

A typical shockwave appointment takes around 15 to 20 minutes. Most patients require three to six sessions, spaced approximately one week apart, depending on the condition being treated and its duration.

Is Shockwave Right for Me?

Shockwave therapy is particularly well suited to patients who:

• Have had symptoms for three months or more
• Have not achieved adequate relief from stretching, orthotics or manual therapy alone
• Want to avoid corticosteroid injections or surgical intervention
• Are looking for a proven, non-invasive treatment with strong clinical evidence

A small number of contraindications apply. Your podiatrist will screen for these at your initial assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does shockwave therapy hurt?
Most patients tolerate shockwave therapy well. You may feel a firm pulsing or tapping sensation during treatment, and some mild tenderness over the treated area for 24 to 48 hours afterwards is normal. Significant post-treatment soreness is uncommon and most patients return to normal activities immediately.

How many sessions will I need?
Most conditions respond well to a course of three to six sessions. Chronic or long-standing conditions may require additional treatment. Your podiatrist will tailor the plan based on your diagnosis, symptom duration and response to initial sessions.

Is shockwave therapy covered by private health insurance?
Shockwave therapy delivered as part of a podiatry consultation is claimable through most private health funds with podiatry extras cover. We offer HICAPS on-the-spot claiming at every appointment.

How is the EMS Swiss DolorClast different from other shockwave devices?
The EMS Swiss DolorClast is one of the most extensively researched and clinically validated shockwave devices available. It delivers precise, consistent energy output and is the device of choice for podiatrists and sports medicine clinicians worldwide. Not all shockwave machines carry the same evidence base.

Can shockwave therapy be used alongside other treatments?
Yes. Shockwave therapy is often used as part of a broader treatment plan that may include custom orthotics, dry needling, rehabilitation exercises and biomechanical assessment. Your podiatrist will recommend the most appropriate combination for your condition.

Health Fund Rebates

Shockwave therapy delivered as part of a podiatry consultation is claimable through most private health funds with podiatry extras cover. We offer HICAPS on-the-spot claiming at our Balgowlah clinic — no paperwork, no out-of-pocket delays.