How many shockwave therapy sessions will I need?
It's one of the first questions people ask us. The honest answer is that it depends on you: the condition, how long you've had it and how your body responds. Here's how we think about it.
The short answer
Most people with a muscle, tendon or joint problem have around three sessions. Three to six is common, especially for long-standing (chronic) problems. A recent injury of a few weeks to a month may often need only one or two. Sessions are usually 5 to 10 days apart, with 7 days being typical. We'll suggest a plan at your first appointment and review it as you go. Results vary from person to person.
What affects the number of sessions
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The condition. Different conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, Achilles problems or calcific tendonitis, follow different treatment plans.
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How long you've had it. Longer-standing problems can take longer to respond.
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Focused or radial. We use Storz Medical machines, made in Switzerland since 1987: the focused DUOLITH SD1 T-Top (true shockwave) and the radial MASTERPULS (a pressure wave, a different treatment). Read focused vs radial shockwave.
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Your everyday load. Work, sport and time on your feet all play a part.
Why sessions are spaced out
Spacing gives your body time between treatments. A session usually lasts about 25 minutes for one problem, or about 45 to 50 minutes if we're treating two. We'll explain what you may feel after each session and when to come back.
Had a steroid injection?
If you've had a steroid (cortisone) injection, we can't treat that area until at least six weeks after the injection. This is a firm rule we always follow.
Will I notice a change after one session?
Some people notice a change early on; others take longer or notice little. Results vary from person to person, and we'll be honest with you if shockwave doesn't seem to be helping.
What about ED?
Shockwave for erectile dysfunction follows a standard course of six sessions, each taking about 15 to 20 minutes. Sessions are usually twice a week. See our ED treatment page.
Prices
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Focused shockwave (Storz Medical DUOLITH SD1 T-Top), one problem: £130 a session, 3 sessions for £350, 6 sessions for £675
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Radial shockwave (Storz Medical MASTERPULS MP200), one problem: £80 a session, 3 sessions for £210, 6 sessions for £400
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Two problems, or both sides, in one session: £220 focused or £130 radial
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If we combine radial and focused in the same session, you pay only the focused price
The cost depends on what's being treated, and we'll confirm it before you book.
No hidden fees and no VAT. See treatment prices.
Who will treat you
Rich and Cher completed musculoskeletal shockwave training with Venn Healthcare and have over 25 years' combined experience.
Visiting us
102 Larkshall Crescent, Highams Park, London E4 6NS. Free parking on the drive, about a 5-minute walk from Highams Park Overground. Patients are usually seen within 2–3 days, and we have 100 Google reviews.
FAQs
How many shockwave sessions do most people have?
Most people have around three. Three to six is common for long-standing problems, and a recent injury may often need only one or two. We'll suggest a plan for you.
How often are sessions?
Usually 5 to 10 days apart, with 7 days being typical.
Do I have to book a course?
No. You can book a single session or save with a 3- or 6-session block. The cost depends on what's being treated. Focused shockwave is £130 a session (3 for £350, 6 for £675) and radial is £80 a session (3 for £210, 6 for £400), with no VAT.
What if I don't notice a change?
We review how you're getting on at each visit and will tell you honestly if we don't think more sessions would help.
How long is each session?
Usually about 25 minutes for one problem, or about 45 to 50 minutes for two.
Call us: 07807 333469, or WhatsApp Rich. Or book online.
