Electrotherapy uses energy, such as gentle electrical currents, sound waves or acoustic pressure waves, to reduce pain and support tissue healing. For stubborn problems like chronic tendon pain and heel pain, it can make the difference when exercise alone has not been enough.
TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation)
Small pads on the skin deliver a gentle tingling current that interrupts pain signals. TENS is drug-free, comfortable, and useful for back pain, arthritis, nerve pain and after surgery. We can also show you how to use a TENS unit at home.
Therapeutic ultrasound
Sound waves, delivered through a gel and a treatment head, are used for selected soft tissue problems. It is painless and is always combined with exercise and manual therapy.
Shockwave therapy
Shockwave therapy sends acoustic pressure waves into the painful tissue. It is a well-researched treatment for chronic tendinopathies and plantar fasciitis, especially when pain has lasted more than three months.
- Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
- Achilles and patellar tendinopathy
- Tennis elbow
- Calcific and chronic shoulder tendinopathy
- Greater trochanteric (outer hip) pain
What to expect from shockwave
A session takes about 10 to 15 minutes. The treatment can feel uncomfortable while it is running, and the intensity is adjusted to what you can tolerate. Most courses involve three to six weekly sessions, with improvement continuing for several weeks after the last one.
Shockwave is not suitable in pregnancy, over areas of infection or tumour, or for people with certain blood-clotting problems. We screen for these first.
Electrotherapy: TENS, Ultrasound & Shockwave: frequently asked questions
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
It can be uncomfortable during treatment, but the intensity is adjusted to you and each session lasts only a few minutes.
How many shockwave sessions are needed?
Usually three to six sessions, about a week apart. Many people notice improvement after two or three sessions, and benefits continue to build afterwards.
Can I use TENS at home?
Yes. We can teach you how to use a home TENS unit safely and set the right settings for your pain.