What shockwave therapy is
Shockwave therapy uses acoustic waves. Sound energy, basically. A handheld applicator is placed on the sore area, and it sends quick pulses into the tissue underneath.
No needles. No incisions. No medication. You feel a rapid tapping sensation where the applicator touches your skin.
The goal is to stimulate tissue that has gotten stuck. Tendons and other soft tissues sometimes stop healing the way they should, especially when the problem has been going on a long time. Many people find shockwave helps get things moving again. Your provider will tell you if it is right for you.
Who it may help
Shockwave is usually aimed at problems that have not settled with rest, ice, stretching, and waiting. The kind of pain you have been living with so long you almost forget what normal feels like.
Your provider may suggest it for:
When to talk to a doctor first
Shockwave is not for everyone. Your provider asks about your health history before treatment. It may not be a fit if you are pregnant, have a bleeding disorder or take blood thinners, have an open wound or infection in the area, or have certain other conditions. Your provider will tell you if it is right for you.
And some symptoms need a doctor before anything else. If you have severe unexplained pain, swelling with fever, numbness that keeps spreading, or pain after a recent major injury, please get checked by a doctor first.
What a visit is like
Your provider starts by talking with you. Where exactly does it hurt? What makes it worse? How long has this been going on? They press around the area to find the spots that are most tender.
Then a gel is applied to your skin so the waves travel well. The applicator is moved over the sore area while it pulses. It can feel intense on the most tender spots. That is normal. Tell your provider how it feels and they can adjust the intensity.
Afterward you can usually go about your day. Some people feel a little sore for a while, a bit like after a hard workout. Your provider will give you simple guidance for the next few days.
Why shockwave is part of a plan
Shockwave works on the sore spot. But a sore tendon usually has a reason. Maybe weak muscles around it. Maybe the way you walk, grip, or train.
That is why your provider may pair shockwave with physical therapy to rebuild strength and fix the habits that caused the problem. If your pain came from the gym or the court, our sports injuries page explains how Thrive approaches getting you back in the game.
Your investment and how to book
Shockwave therapy is $50 per session, self pay. Affordable enough to find out if it helps you, without a big commitment up front.
Tap the Book button to choose a time on our online calendar, or call or text (313) 429-9079. We are at 835 Mason St, Suite A-245, 2nd Floor, Dearborn. Open Monday through Friday. Come in, talk it through, and let your provider tell you honestly if shockwave makes sense for you.
