Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)
Acoustic wave treatment for stubborn tendon problems — strong evidence for specific conditions, stated plainly.
What it is
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) delivers acoustic pressure waves into chronically painful tendon and soft-tissue regions to stimulate a healing response and reduce pain. It is a short, in-clinic treatment — typically a few minutes per session, in a weekly series — used for tendinopathy that has resisted months of standard care.
Our clinic is planned around both radial shockwave (dispersed energy for broader, more superficial regions) and focused shockwave (concentrated energy for deeper, precisely targeted tissue), so the delivery method matches the diagnosis. Shockwave at Proof is always an adjunct: it runs alongside the progressive loading program that does the lasting work, with your response measured, not assumed.
Who it helps
- Plantar fasciopathy (plantar fasciitis) that has resisted standard care
- Calcific tendinopathy of the rotator cuff
- Chronic Achilles and patellar tendinopathy
- Lateral elbow tendinopathy (tennis elbow)
- Chronic myofascial trigger-point regions (adjunct)
People with a stubborn, well-localized tendon problem — usually months old, already through rest and generic exercise — who want a serious non-surgical option before injections or surgery.
How we assess
Shockwave is prescribed from a diagnosis, not a request: evaluation confirms the tissue and stage, screens contraindications (anticoagulation, certain conditions near the treatment site), and sets baseline pain and function measures so the series has a measurable verdict.
What treatment looks like
Typically 3 to 6 sessions, about a week apart, layered onto your loading program. Treatment is tolerably uncomfortable for a few minutes; post-session soreness for a day or two is common and expected.
Evidence & limitations
This is one of the better-evidenced adjuncts in physical therapy — for the right conditions. Evidence is strongest for plantar fasciopathy and calcific rotator cuff tendinopathy, and moderate for other chronic tendinopathies; results build over weeks, not instantly. What we will not tell you: that shockwave regenerates tissue, accelerates healing on demand, or replaces rehabilitation — claims the research does not support. If your baseline measures haven't moved by mid-series, we say so and change course.
Questions, answered
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
It's uncomfortable rather than painful — a strong tapping or pulsing over the treatment site for a few minutes, with intensity adjusted to your feedback. Mild soreness for a day or two afterward is normal.
How many sessions will I need?
Most protocols run 3 to 6 weekly sessions, with benefit typically assessed over the following weeks — tendon response trails treatment. We re-test your baseline measures rather than asking how it feels in the room.
Is shockwave covered by insurance?
Usually not: Medicare and most commercial plans classify ESWT as investigational, so it is normally a flat, published self-pay price per series — told to you in writing before you start. For auto-accident injuries, Michigan no-fault may cover it when physician-ordered and reasonably necessary, with the documentation to support it; we verify before treating.
Where it's available
Coming soon Sterling Heights, MI — 44056 Mound Rd, Suite 103. Opening February 2027; services are provided by Michigan-licensed physical therapists.
Insurance considerations
Skilled physical therapy is a standard benefit under Medicare, commercial plans, Michigan auto no-fault, and workers' compensation; coverage always depends on your specific plan and medical necessity. We verify your benefits before your first visit — see Insurance & coverage.
Related: Manual therapy · Therapeutic exercise · Sports injury rehabilitation
Opening February 2027
Join the waitlist to be first in line — or, for physicians, attorneys, and employers, reach out now and we'll have your workflow ready before the doors open.
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