Selected treatment options within a broader rehabilitation plan
Shockwave and laser therapy
Non-invasive treatment options that may be considered for selected tendon, soft-tissue and pain presentations after an appropriate physiotherapy assessment.
A clear first stepYour first appointment focuses on understanding the problem and agreeing on a practical plan.
Individual careAssessment and plan tailored to you
Bryanston practiceWellness of Being, 340 Main Road
Clear fees and benefitsPlan rules and patient responsibility apply
Direct contactPhone, WhatsApp or appointment form
Understanding the service
The device is not the diagnosis and it is not a one-size-fits-all treatment.
Shockwave and laser therapy may be useful for selected conditions, but suitability depends on the diagnosis, medical history, tissue involved and stage of recovery.
Where these options are used, they usually form one part of a plan that may also include exercise, load management and other physiotherapy treatment.
Who this may be for
Conditions that may be considered
An assessment is required before deciding whether either treatment is suitable.
Plantar heel pain and plantar-fascia presentations
Achilles tendinopathy
Tennis or golfer’s elbow
Rotator-cuff-related shoulder pain
Patellar tendinopathy
Selected scar, tissue and pain presentations
What to expect
A clear process from first assessment to progress review.
Listen and assess
Discuss the problem, relevant history, daily demands and the goals that matter to you.
Explain the findings
Receive a clear explanation of what was found and which factors may be contributing.
Begin the plan
Treatment may start when appropriate, with practical guidance for the time between visits.
Review and progress
The plan is adjusted according to response, function and the next stage of your goals.
The approach
How these treatments fit into rehabilitation
Shockwave uses acoustic pulses and is commonly considered for selected persistent tendon or heel conditions. Laser uses light energy and may be considered for selected pain, inflammation, tissue or scar concerns.
The physiotherapist explains the expected role, alternatives and practical plan before treatment begins.
Assessment before treatment selection
Intensity adjusted to the individual’s tolerance
Exercise and load-management plan where relevant
Regular review of response and continued need
Shockwave treatment
A handheld applicator delivers acoustic pulses to the selected area. The sensation can be strong and is adjusted to tolerance. The number of sessions varies according to the condition and response.
Laser treatment
Laser treatment is generally comfortable and may be used as an adjunct for selected conditions. It is not appropriate for every patient or every presentation.
No automatic treatment package
The plan is reviewed rather than fixed in advance. Continued treatment should be based on clinical need and response, not simply on completing a predetermined number of sessions.
Important
Assessment is essential before using either modality
Pregnancy, certain medical conditions, medication, recent procedures and the exact treatment area may affect suitability. Provide a complete medical history before treatment.
Practical answers
Questions patients commonly ask
These answers are general. Your assessment and medical-aid rules may change what applies in your situation.
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
It can produce a strong tapping or pulsing sensation. Intensity is adjusted to tolerance and any discomfort should settle after treatment.
How many shockwave sessions are needed?
The number of sessions varies by diagnosis and response. A plan is discussed after assessment and reviewed rather than guaranteed in advance.
What is the difference between shockwave and laser?
Shockwave uses acoustic pulses and laser uses light energy. They have different indications and should only be selected after assessment.
Does medical aid cover these treatments?
Benefits vary by medical-aid plan and treatment code. Confirm available benefits with the scheme. The practice can explain the expected fee before treatment.
Related care
Other services that may be relevant
Move from uncertainty to a clear next step
Request an individual assessment and a plan based on your symptoms and goals.
Appointments are available at the Bryanston practice, with selected home visits where appropriate.