Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)

Non-invasive extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) for chronic tendinopathies, heel pain, plantar fasciitis, and calcific conditions, administered by physiotherapists and podiatrists across 10 Singapore clinics.

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) at Physio & Sole Clinic is a clinically validated, non-surgical treatment for chronic musculoskeletal and soft tissue conditions that have not responded adequately to conventional physiotherapy or rest. The therapy uses focused or radial acoustic pressure waves delivered through the skin to stimulate neovascularisation, break down calcific deposits, promote collagen remodelling, and reduce local pain sensitisation in tendons and fascia. At Physio & Sole, ESWT is used extensively for plantar fasciitis and chronic heel pain — conditions well within the joint expertise of the clinic's physiotherapy and podiatry teams — as well as Achilles tendinopathy, patellar tendinopathy (jumper's knee), lateral epicondylalgia (tennis elbow), medial epicondylalgia (golfer's elbow), rotator cuff tendinopathy, and calcific shoulder tendinitis. Each session targets one anatomical site and typically lasts 10–15 minutes of active treatment, preceded by a clinical assessment to confirm suitability and site localisation. A standard course is 3–6 sessions spaced one week apart, though some patients see significant improvement after 2–3 sessions. Shockwave is delivered by physiotherapists and podiatrists trained in ESWT application, often as part of an integrated treatment plan that includes stretching protocols, load management, and orthotic prescription where relevant. The non-invasive nature of ESWT — no anaesthesia, no downtime, minimal side effects — makes it an attractive alternative to steroid injections or surgery for suitable candidates. Patients should expect mild discomfort during the procedure and possible temporary soreness in the treated area for 24–48 hours post-session.