If Your Tendon Pain is Not Settling, Even After Doing Everything Right
If you’ve been struggling with persistent tendon pain that just won’t budge—even with rest, exercises, or standard physio—then shockwave therapy might be the next logical step for you.
At 3 Way Physio in Woodley, we use Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy for specific joint, muscle, and even certain urological issues. We don’t just ‘plug and play’; we combine a proper clinical assessment with treatment that follows official NICE guidelines. To make sure you’re getting the best care possible, we use specialist equipment from Storz Medical, a Swiss company known for making some of the best medical-grade shockwave systems in the world.
The great thing about shockwave therapy is that it’s completely non-invasive—there are no needles or anaesthetics involved—and it’s all done right here in our regulated clinic.
We’re proud to look after patients from across Woodley, Reading, and the surrounding areas, helping them find a way forward when other treatments haven’t quite done the trick.
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
In simple terms, Shockwave Therapy uses acoustic energy waves—pulses of sound, really—directed right at the area that’s bothering you. These little ‘jolts’ of energy help kickstart your body’s natural healing process, improving blood flow and helping to dial down that nagging pain.
It’s a very popular choice for long-term tendon problems. In fact, it’s officially recognised by NICE (the people who set healthcare standards in the UK) for helping with things like stubborn Achilles trouble and that painful ‘first thing in the morning’ heel pain known as plantar fasciitis.
The Tools We Use
Not all shockwave machines are created equal, so we use a few different types depending on what you need:
- Radial Shockwave: Great for treating larger areas near the surface of the skin.
- Focused Shockwave: This one goes a bit deeper to target specific spots that are harder to reach.
- Combined approach: Sometimes, the best results come from using a bit of both.
When you come in, we’ll have a proper look and figure out which one (or which combination) is going to get you the best result. It’s all about using the right tool for the job.
Is Shockwave Therapy Safe?
Shockwave therapy is generally considered safe when delivered by trained clinicians using approved medical devices.
It is not suitable if you:
- Are pregnant
- Have certain clotting disorders
- Have active infection in the area
- Have certain malignancies
We screen carefully for contraindications.
Side effects are typically mild and may include temporary soreness or redness.
Insurance and Payment
We are registered with:
- Bupa
- Axa PPP
- Aviva
- WPA
- Cigna
If using private medical insurance, we recommend confirming cover for shockwave therapy in advance.
Conditions Commonly Treated
We find that knowing what’s coming helps take the edge off any nerves and helps you feel prepared.
Shockwave Therapy in Woodley
Shockwave Therapy in Woodley, Reading is frequently used for:
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Plantar fasciitis
- Shin splints
- Chronic tendinopathy and persistent tendon pain
- Greater trochanteric pain syndrome
- Patellar tendinopathy
- Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow
- Frozen shoulder and shoulder pain
- Certain cases of low back pain
- Men’s sexual health conditions under specialist assessment
Shockwave therapy is typically considered when symptoms have lasted longer than three months or have not responded to standard rehabilitation.
It is not suitable for every condition. We assess carefully before recommending treatment.
Why Choose 3 Way Physio for Shockwave Therapy?
3 Way Physio for Shockwave Therapy
- Medical-grade, Swiss manufactured, Storz Medical equipment
- Access to both radial and focused shockwave
- Clinicians trained in shockwave application
- Integrated physiotherapy and rehabilitation support
- Clear explanation of expected outcomes
Shockwave therapy is delivered by:
- Anisha Daudharia
- Rosie Bateman
- Rupali Pawar
- Jack Phillips
All treatment is embedded within a broader physiotherapy plan where appropriate.
We are based at 11 Headley Road, Woodley, easily accessible from Reading and surrounding areas.
What to Expect
Initial Assessment – £78 (50 minutes)
Your first appointment includes:
- Full injury history and medical screening
- Physical examination
- Discussion of previous treatments
- Determination of suitability for shockwave therapy
- Explanation of risks, benefits and realistic outcomes
Shockwave is not started without assessment. If another treatment is more appropriate, we will advise accordingly.
Shockwave Treatment Sessions – 30 minutes
- Radial shockwave: £100
- Focused shockwave: £147
- Combined radial and focused: £179
Treatment involves applying a handheld device to the affected area. The sensation can feel intense but is usually tolerable. No anaesthetic is required.
Most treatment plans involve 3 to 6 sessions spaced weekly or fortnightly, depending on condition and response.
Improvement is often gradual and may continue over 6 to 8 weeks after completion.
Treatment Packages
We offer structured treatment packages depending on the number of sessions and type of ESWT used. These can be discussed during your assessment. There is no obligation to commit in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does shockwave therapy really work?
How many sessions will I need?
Is shockwave painful?
When will I see results?
Is it better than injections?
Can shockwave treat long-term tendon pain?
Is there downtime after treatment?
Is shockwave therapy covered by insurance?
Can it help shoulder pain?
Book Shockwave Therapy in Woodley, Reading
If you are based in Woodley or Reading and would like to explore whether shockwave therapy is appropriate for your condition, call 0118 969 2299, book online, or contact our team for guidance, and we will ensure you receive an accurate assessment before recommending any treatment.
