Radial Shockwave Therapy
Accelerate Healing. Reduce Pain. Restore Function.
Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) is a non-invasive, evidence-based treatment that uses acoustic pressure waves to stimulate the body's natural healing response. It is commonly used to treat chronic tendon injuries, persistent muscle pain, and scar tissue that have not responded to traditional treatments.
At Bercutt Physical Therapy, RSWT is integrated into a comprehensive rehabilitation program that may also include manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, dry needling, and movement retraining to help you achieve lasting results.
What Is Radial Shockwave Therapy?
Radial Shockwave Therapy delivers high-energy acoustic pressure waves to injured or painful tissues. These mechanical waves stimulate the body's natural healing processes by increasing blood flow, promoting tissue remodeling, and reducing pain sensitivity.
Unlike injections or surgery, RSWT is completely non-invasive and requires no medication or downtime. Treatment is performed using a handheld device that delivers controlled pressure waves directly to the affected area.
How Does Radial Shockwave Therapy Work?
RSWT stimulates the body's natural repair mechanisms and may:
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Increase local blood circulation
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Stimulate tissue healing and remodeling
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Reduce pain sensitivity
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Improve tendon and soft tissue function
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Break down abnormal scar tissue and fibrosis
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Improve mobility and range of motion
Current research supports the use of shockwave therapy for several chronic musculoskeletal conditions, particularly tendinopathies and plantar fasciitis. Emerging evidence also suggests potential benefits for selected scar tissue and fibrotic conditions when incorporated into a comprehensive rehabilitation program.
Conditions That May Benefit
Foot & Ankle
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Plantar fasciitis
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Achilles tendinopathy
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Heel pain
Knee
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Patellar tendinopathy (Jumper's Knee)
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Chronic quadriceps tendinopathy
Hip
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Gluteal tendinopathy
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Greater trochanteric pain syndrome
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Chronic hip pain
Shoulder
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Rotator cuff tendinopathy
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Calcific tendinopathy
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Chronic shoulder pain
Elbow
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Tennis elbow
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Golfer's elbow
Scar Tissue & Fibrosis
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C-section scars
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Post-surgical scar tissue
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Breast surgery scar tissue
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Radiation fibrosis (when appropriate)
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Soft tissue adhesions
Sports & Overuse Injuries
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Chronic tendon injuries
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Persistent muscle pain
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Overuse injuries
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Delayed healing soft tissue injuries
Following a comprehensive evaluation, your physical therapist will determine whether RSWT is appropriate for your condition and incorporate it into your individualized treatment plan.
How Can Radial Shockwave Therapy Help?
When combined with physical therapy, RSWT may help:
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Reduce chronic pain
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Improve tendon healing
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Increase mobility
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Improve flexibility
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Reduce scar tissue restrictions
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Improve tissue quality
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Enhance recovery from chronic injuries
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Help patients return to activity more quickly
Because RSWT addresses the underlying tissue rather than simply masking symptoms, it can be an effective option for conditions that have persisted despite rest or other conservative treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does radial shockwave therapy hurt?
Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort during treatment, especially over sensitive tissues. The intensity can be adjusted to maintain your comfort, and any soreness typically resolves within a day or two.
How many treatments will I need?
Most conditions respond well to a series of 3–6 treatments, typically performed once a week. Your therapist will recommend a treatment plan based on your diagnosis, symptoms, and goals.
Is there any downtime?
No. Most patients can return to normal daily activities immediately after treatment. Your therapist may recommend temporarily modifying high-impact activities while the tissue heals.
Is RSWT the same as ultrasound?
No. Therapeutic ultrasound uses sound waves to create gentle tissue heating, while radial shockwave therapy delivers high-energy acoustic pressure waves designed to stimulate tissue repair and reduce chronic pain.
Is radial shockwave therapy safe?
Yes. RSWT is considered a safe, non-invasive treatment when performed by trained healthcare professionals. Your therapist will review your medical history and determine whether you are a good candidate before beginning treatment.
Is shockwave therapy covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by insurance provider and diagnosis. Our team will discuss your benefits and any out-of-pocket costs before treatment.
Why Choose Bercutt Physical Therapy?
At Bercutt Physical Therapy, we don't rely on a single treatment approach. Radial Shockwave Therapy is one tool we use alongside therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, dry needling, and individualized rehabilitation to help you achieve lasting results.
Our patients benefit from:
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One-on-one care with the same physical therapist
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Private treatment rooms
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Evidence-based treatment plans
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Advanced rehabilitation technology
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Specialized expertise in orthopedic, pelvic health, vestibular, lymphedema, and breast cancer rehabilitation
Ready to Find Out if RSWT Is Right for You?
If chronic pain, tendon injuries, or scar tissue are limiting your daily activities, Radial Shockwave Therapy may be an effective part of your recovery. Schedule an evaluation with Bercutt Physical Therapy to learn whether RSWT can help you move better, recover faster, and get back to doing what you love.
