Evaluation
Dr. Eric reviews your history, symptoms, movement, and examination findings to determine whether the problem is appropriate for shockwave therapy or needs another form of evaluation.
Non-invasive soft-tissue treatment
Shockwave Therapy in Harleysville, PA
Shockwave therapy uses targeted acoustic pressure waves to stimulate injured or irritated tissues. It may be considered for persistent tendon, muscle, joint, and soft-tissue problems that have not responded as expected to rest or other conservative care.
Understanding the treatment
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy delivers acoustic energy through a handheld applicator placed against the skin. The energy is directed into the selected tissue without an incision.
The mechanical stimulus is used to encourage biological responses in the treatment area. These responses may include improved local blood circulation, stimulation of connective-tissue activity, breakdown of certain calcific deposits, and changes in pain signaling.
Because pain can come from many different tissues and conditions, the first step is determining whether the problem being treated is an appropriate match for shockwave therapy.
Common applications
Problems That May Be Considered for Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is commonly used for persistent tendon and soft-tissue conditions. Suitability depends on your diagnosis, examination findings, health history, and the exact tissue involved.
Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
Tennis elbow
Golfer’s elbow
Patellar tendinopathy or jumper’s knee
Achilles and other chronic tendinopathies
Calcific shoulder tendinitis
Shoulder tendon problems
Hip-region tendon pain
Knee pain involving selected soft tissues
Trigger points and muscle tightness
Selected scar-tissue restrictions
Persistent sports and overuse injuries
This list does not mean every case is appropriate for treatment. Similar
symptoms can have different causes, which is why Dr. Eric begins with an
evaluation before recommending shockwave therapy.
Your visit
What to Expect During Shockwave Therapy
The exact plan depends on the area being treated, how long the problem has been present, tissue sensitivity, and your response to care.
Targeted treatment
A handheld applicator is placed over the selected area. Treatment intensity is adjusted to the tissue, location, and your tolerance. Sessions are generally brief and commonly take approximately 15–20 minutes.
Progressive plan
Shockwave therapy is usually provided as a series of visits. Your response is monitored, and movement, mobility, corrective exercise, or other care may be incorporated when appropriate.
Safety and suitability
Is Shockwave Therapy Right for Everyone?
Shockwave therapy is non-invasive and is generally well tolerated, but it is not automatically appropriate for every person or every painful area. Temporary soreness, redness, or swelling can occur after treatment.
Your medical history and the planned treatment location must be reviewed before care begins. Some conditions may rule out treatment or require clearance, modification, or a different approach.
Tell our team about all implanted devices, prior surgeries, joint
replacements, blood-thinning medication, clotting problems, pregnancy,
active cancer treatment, recent fractures, infections, or other major
health concerns before treatment.
Common questions
Shockwave Therapy FAQs
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
Most patients describe pressure, tapping, or mild-to-moderate discomfort over sensitive tissue. Intensity can be adjusted during treatment. Tell the provider if the sensation becomes too strong.
How long does a treatment session take?
Treatment is generally brief. At our office, a typical shockwave session is approximately 15–20 minutes, although appointment length can vary based on the area and services included.
How many shockwave treatments will I need?
Shockwave therapy is commonly delivered as a series rather than a single visit. The number and spacing of sessions depend on the tissue involved, how long the problem has been present, and your response. A recommendation is provided after evaluation.
Is there downtime after treatment?
Most people return to normal daily activities after a session. Temporary soreness, redness, or swelling may occur. You may receive activity guidance based on the area treated and your care plan.
Can shockwave therapy break down scar tissue or calcification?
Shockwave therapy may help remodel selected scar-tissue restrictions and break down certain calcific deposits, including deposits found in some tendon conditions. Whether this applies depends on the tissue and diagnosis.
Can shockwave therapy be combined with chiropractic care or exercise?
Yes. When appropriate, shockwave therapy may be one part of a plan that also includes chiropractic care, mobility work, corrective exercise, therapeutic exercise, or movement coaching through Functional Life.
Will insurance cover shockwave therapy?
Coverage varies by plan and by the way the service is classified. Our team can discuss current fees, payment options, and any available insurance information before treatment begins.
Evaluation-first care
Find Out Whether Shockwave Therapy Fits Your Care Plan
Schedule an evaluation at Family Chiropractic of Lederach in Harleysville. We will assess the problem, explain your options, and determine whether shockwave therapy is appropriate for your goals.