Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that may be included in physiotherapy for certain persistent
tendon and soft-tissue conditions. At Atlas Physiotherapy & Health in Markham, treatment begins with an
assessment so your physiotherapist can understand your symptoms, explain your options and determine whether
shockwave therapy is appropriate for your care plan.
Shockwave therapy delivers controlled acoustic waves to targeted areas of the body and may influence pain sensitivity and biological processes involved in recovery.
It is commonly used in physiotherapy treatment for chronic or recurring soft tissue conditions, particularly when pain is limiting activity, exercise, or everyday movement.
Atlas Physiotherapy & Health provides shockwave therapy in Markham as part of individualized treatment plans based on your symptoms, condition, and recovery goals.
Despite its name, shockwave therapy doesn’t involve an electrical shock.
Treatment uses controlled acoustic pressure waves delivered through the skin, with no incision required.
It may be considered for conditions such as Achilles tendinopathy, shoulder calcification, and tennis elbow as part of a broader physiotherapy treatment plan.
Researchers continue to study exactly how shockwave therapy affects pain and tissue recovery.
The mechanical stimulus may influence pain sensitivity and local biological processes involved in recovery, which is why it may be used alongside exercise and other physiotherapy strategies.
Some people experience temporary soreness, redness, swelling, bruising, or changes in sensation after treatment.
Our physiotherapists will monitor your response and adjust treatment settings based on the area being treated and your comfort.
Shockwave therapy may be recommended for several persistent muscle, tendon, and soft tissue conditions, including:
Our physiotherapy team will assess your symptoms and determine whether shockwave therapy is appropriate for your condition and overall treatment plan.
Contact Atlas Physiotherapy & Health to book a free 10-minute consultation and learn whether shockwave therapy may be right for you.
During shockwave therapy, you may feel repeated tapping or pulsing over the treatment area, and some areas may be more sensitive than others.
Your physiotherapist can adjust the treatment settings based on your comfort and will monitor your response throughout the session.
Temporary soreness, redness, swelling, bruising, or changes in sensation may occur after treatment.
If you experience an unexpected or concerning reaction following your session, contact the team at Atlas Physiotherapy & Health for guidance.
No. Shockwave therapy isn’t appropriate for every person, condition, or area of the body.
Screening is especially important if you:
This isn’t a complete list of contraindications, and eligibility can depend on the specific shockwave technology and treatment area.
Be sure to provide your physiotherapist with a complete health history so they can determine whether shockwave therapy is appropriate for you.
Atlas Physiotherapy & Health provides physiotherapy services at 4961 Highway 7 East, Suite 201 in Markham, convenient for people living or working in Markham, Unionville and nearby communities.
If persistent tendon or heel pain is limiting your activity, book a physiotherapy assessment to discuss the cause of your symptoms and whether shockwave therapy may be one appropriate part of your plan.
Assessment: Your physiotherapist reviews your symptoms, health history, goals, and previous care, then completes an appropriate physical examination.
Recommendation: If shockwave therapy may be suitable, your physiotherapist explains the proposed plan, alternatives, expected sensations, potential risks, and costs before obtaining informed consent.
Treatment: The treatment area and settings are selected for you. Shockwave therapy may be combined with education, activity modification, and therapeutic exercise as part of your overall treatment plan.
Reassessment: Your progress and tolerance are reviewed throughout your care. Your treatment plan may be continued, modified, or stopped depending on how you respond.
At Atlas Physiotherapy & Health, our shockwave therapy services help people manage persistent pain, support tissue recovery, improve mobility, and return more comfortably to everyday activities.
Whether you’re dealing with plantar fasciitis, tendon pain, a recurring sports injury, shoulder discomfort, or another stubborn soft tissue condition, our physiotherapy team will assess your needs and create a personalized treatment plan that fits your goals.
Shockwave therapy may be used as one part of a broader physiotherapy treatment plan that can also include education, activity modification, strengthening and mobility exercises, a home exercise program, and other physiotherapy techniques when appropriate.
We also offer supportive care services, including:
Book your free 10-minute consultation online, visit us in person in Markham, or call 905-470-0950 to get started.
Clinically reviewed by Waku Goto, Physiotherapist
Is shockwave therapy the same as an electrical shock?
No. Shockwave therapy uses acoustic pressure waves delivered through a handheld device. It does not send an electrical shock through your body
Does shockwave treatment hurt?
You may feel pressure, tapping, or temporary discomfort during treatment, particularly over sensitive areas. The intensity can usually be adjusted to keep the treatment within a tolerable range.
How many shockwave therapy sessions will I need?
There is no single schedule for everyone. The number and spacing of sessions depends on your assessment, condition, response and the protocol used by the clinic.
What conditions can shockwave therapy help?
It may be considered for some persistent tendon and soft-tissue conditions, including plantar fasciitis, Achilles or patellar tendinopathy, tennis elbow, some shoulder tendon conditions and greater trochanteric pain syndrome. An assessment is needed to confirm the diagnosis and determine whether it fits your plan.
Can shockwave therapy replace exercise?
Usually it should be considered as part of a broader rehabilitation plan rather than a replacement for exercise, education or progressive return to activity.
Are there any side effects to shockwave treatment?
Some people experience temporary soreness, redness, swelling, bruising, or changes in sensation around the treated area. These effects are usually short-lived, and your physiotherapist will monitor your response throughout treatment.
Is shockwave therapy covered by insurance in Ontario?
Coverage depends on your insurance provider and individual benefits plan. Because shockwave therapy may be provided as part of a physiotherapy appointment, check your policy or contact your insurer to confirm your coverage.
How do I book an assessment?
