Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy uses controlled acoustic waves delivered into injured tissue. These waves stimulate blood flow, encourage tissue repair, and help reduce pain by influencing nerve activity.

It is supported by NICE guidelines for certain conditions, particularly plantar fasciopathy, and is widely used in musculoskeletal care as a non-surgical alternative for long-standing injuries.

Rather than masking symptoms, shockwave therapy helps restart the body’s natural healing process, making it especially useful for chronic conditions that have stalled in recovery.

Shockwave therapy works best as part of a structured approach rather than as a standalone treatment. Reducing pain is important, but long-term recovery depends on restoring strength and movement.

For this reason, we often combine shockwave therapy with a personalised exercise prescription programme, allowing you to rebuild strength while symptoms improve.

In some cases, it may also be used alongside treatments such as high power laser therapy or orthotic support, depending on your condition and how your body responds.

Shockwave therapy is particularly effective for tendon and soft tissue conditions that have become persistent or resistant to other treatments.

We frequently use it to treat problems such as heel pain linked to plantar fasciopathy, Achilles tendon issues, and shin splints.

It is also used for conditions involving chronic inflammation, muscle injury, and certain joint-related pain patterns. For patients with long-standing symptoms, it can provide a significant improvement in both pain and function.

Shockwave therapy is carried out in a clinical setting and typically takes around 10 to 15 minutes per session. A handheld device is applied to the affected area, delivering pulses of energy into the tissue.

You may experience some discomfort during the treatment, particularly in more sensitive areas, but this is usually well tolerated and short-lived. Many patients notice a reduction in symptoms within a few sessions, although results can vary depending on the condition.

Treatment is usually delivered as a short course, with sessions spaced approximately one week apart to allow the body to respond between treatments.

Shockwave therapy has a strong evidence base, but it is important to approach treatment with realistic expectations. While many patients experience significant improvement, outcomes can vary depending on how long the condition has been present and how the body responds.

Our clinicians assess your suitability carefully before recommending treatment. We also monitor your progress throughout the course, adjusting your plan where needed to achieve the best possible result.

At Active Step, shockwave therapy is delivered by experienced clinicians who understand how to integrate it into a broader rehabilitation plan. This ensures your treatment is focused on long-term recovery, not just short-term relief.

We follow NICE-aligned guidance and the most up to date evidence, providing reassurance that your care is safe, evidence-based, and tailored to your condition.

Patients choose us because they want a clear diagnosis, a structured plan, and access to advanced treatments that support real improvement.

Shockwave therapy is typically delivered within follow-up sessions, priced at £105 for 30 minutes. Your clinician will recommend the number of sessions based on your condition, its duration, and your response to treatment.

Initial assessments are available as either a 60-minute musculoskeletal assessment with gait analysis at £199, or a 30-minute assessment at £105.

Private health insurance providers including BUPA, WPA, Cigna and Aviva are accepted. Our team can advise you on your cover before starting treatment.

If you have been dealing with pain for several weeks or months without improvement, it may be time to consider a different approach. Chronic conditions often require targeted intervention to restart the healing process.

Shockwave therapy is particularly useful if symptoms are affecting your ability to walk, exercise, or carry out daily activities comfortably.

If you are looking for an effective, non-surgical treatment for persistent pain, our team is here to help. We provide shockwave therapy in Fareham as part of a structured, personalised approach to recovery.

Booking an assessment is the first step towards understanding your condition and starting a treatment plan designed to get you moving comfortably again.