Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment with up to a 91% improvement rate for chronic tendon injuries, stubborn muscle pain, and conditions that haven't responded to other treatments. At Propel Active in Burlington, we use the gold-standard STORZ MP100+ equipment—the same device used in the clinical research that established these success rates—delivered by experienced chiropractors and physiotherapists.
Sessions can be billed under either chiropractic or physiotherapy benefits.
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), delivers acoustic pressure waves directly to injured tissue through the skin. Unlike ultrasound, shockwave creates controlled micro-trauma that triggers your body's natural healing response.
- Increasing blood flow to damaged tissue through new blood vessel formation
- Stimulating collagen production, the building block of tendons and ligaments
- Reducing pain signals by disrupting pain neurotransmitters
- Converting chronic injuries to acute healing mode so your body can repair them
Each treatment involves 2,000-3,000 shockwave pulses delivered over ~10 minutes. Most patients describe it as a strong tapping sensation—uncomfortable but tolerable.
What to Expect During Shockwave Treatment
Before: Your practitioner assesses your condition and explains the process. Ultrasound gel is applied to the treatment area.
During: The shockwave applicator delivers pulses over ~10 minutes. You'll feel a strong tapping sensation. Intensity is adjusted to your comfort—uncomfortable but tolerable is the goal.
After: Return to normal activities immediately. Avoid intense exercise on the treated area for 24-48 hours. Some temporary soreness is normal and resolves within days.
Results: Some patients notice improvement after one session. Full therapeutic effects develop over several weeks as your body completes the healing process.
Conditions Treated with Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is most effective for chronic conditions (6+ weeks) that haven't fully responded to rest, medication, manual therapy or other treatments. Clinical studies show improvement rates of 76-95% depending on the condition:
Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Pain
The most researched shockwave application. Significant improvement in heel pain, morning stiffness, and difficulty walking.
Calcific Tendonitis of the Shoulder
Chronic shoulder pain from calcium deposits. Shockwave breaks down calcifications and stimulates tendon healing.
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Stubborn outer elbow pain from repetitive gripping. Promotes tendon healing when rest and bracing haven't worked.
Achilles Tendinitis
Both insertional and mid-portion Achilles pain. Particularly effective for runners and active individuals.
Patellar Tendinopathy (Jumper's Knee)
Pain below the kneecap common in jumping sports, running, and squatting.
Myofascial Trigger Points
Stubborn muscle tension and knots that don't respond to massage, stretching, or dry needling.
Golfer's Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Inner elbow pain common in golfers and those doing repetitive wrist movements.
Hip Bursitis / Gluteal Tendinopathy
Lateral hip pain that disrupts sleep and daily activities.
The Same Equipment Used in most Clinical Research
We use the STORZ MP100+ Ultimate—the exact equipment used in the double-blind, randomized controlled trials that established shockwave therapy's 91% improvement rate. Many clinics reference these same studies, but they use different equipment. When you choose Propel Active Health & Lifestyle, you're getting treatment with the technology the research was actually conducted on—not a budget alternative claiming similar results.
Specialist Practitioners
Every session is delivered by a registered healthcare professional with in-depth training and knowledge in using shockwave therapy. Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy will only be recommended if your provider feels strongly that you will benefit from the treatment.
Insurance Flexibility
Shockwave therapy in Burlington can be billed under chiropractic OR physiotherapy benefits—whichever has more coverage. Low on chiro benefits? Book with our physiotherapist. Physio maxed out? See one of our chiropractors. We offer direct insurance billing, so you only pay your portion.
Integrated Care
Shockwave works best as part of a complete treatment plan. We may combine it with manual therapy, exercise rehab, acupuncture and laser therapy to address the root cause—not just symptoms.
