Shockwave Physiotherapy
Originally used in urology to treat kidney stones, the orthopaedic and musculoskeletal use of shock waves has grown exponentially over the last two decades, positioning itself as one of the most advanced physical therapies for injuries resistant to conservative treatments.
What are shock waves?
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy acoustic pulses to stimulate regeneration processes in injured musculoskeletal tissues.
Unlike other conventional therapies, shock waves not only relieve pain, but also promote structural tissue repair. This is because they trigger biological mechanisms that improve vascularisation, reduce inflammation and promote cell regeneration.
This method has proven to be particularly effective in treating chronic conditions such as tendinopathies, calcifications, plantar fasciitis, and overuse injuries.
Specialists in shockwave therapy in Valencia for regeneration and pain relief
I am Miguel Alfonso Porcar, an orthopaedic surgeon with a solid reputation, specialising in regenerative medicine and orthopaedic surgery.
Although we are renowned for our bio-regenerative therapies using platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for knee osteoarthritis and other shoulder or hip conditions, our expertise extends to equally innovative techniques such as shockwave therapy.
Shock waves: Innovation for your recovery
At Regenerat, we integrate shockwave therapy as a powerful and effective tool to stimulate tissue regeneration and relieve chronic pain.
This non-invasive technique uses high-energy acoustic pulses to:
- Stimulate cell regeneration: They promote the formation of new blood vessels and activate the body’s natural repair processes, which are vital for restoring functionality in damaged areas.
- Pain reduction: They help desensitise nerve endings and dissolve calcifications, resulting in significant relief from discomfort.
- Accelerate recovery: They are an ideal complement to rehabilitation, allowing patients to resume their daily and sporting activities in less time.
What types of shock waves are there?
There are two main types of shock waves used in physiotherapy and sports medicine.
Radial shock waves
These are waves of dispersed energy that act over a wider, more superficial area. They are generated by pneumatic pressure and reach depths of 3 to 4 cm. They are indicated for treating large areas such as muscles or superficial tendon insertions. They are less painful and can be applied by specialised physiotherapists.
Indicated for: plantar fasciitis, myofascial trigger points, bursitis, fibrosis, among others.
Focal shock waves
These waves are concentrated at a very specific point, with penetrations that can reach up to 12 cm. They are generated using piezoelectric or electromagnetic technology and require precision in their application, which is why they are usually administered by rehabilitation doctors.
Indicated for: calcific tendinitis of the shoulder, tendinopathy of the gluteus medius, pubalgia, delayed bone healing.
Both types can be combined in a step-by-step approach: first, the focal wave is used to treat the injured structure, and then the radial wave is used as an analgesic complement or to accelerate the recovery of surrounding tissues.
How do shock waves act on the body?
The therapeutic principle is based on mechanotransduction; the waves transmit mechanical energy that stimulates the cellular response of the treated tissue.
This stimulus activates various biological processes that are key to regeneration:
- Neovascularisation: new blood vessels form in damaged tissues, improving the supply of oxygen and nutrients.
- Stem cell activation: promotes structural repair of tendon or muscle tissue.
- Pain reduction: through its neuromodulatory effect, it decreases the sensitivity of peripheral nerve endings.
- Fragmentation of calcifications: particularly useful in calcified tendinitis of the shoulder.
- Dissolution of fibrosis and adhesions: improves the elasticity and mobility of injured tissue.
Thanks to this combination of effects, shockwave treatment not only alleviates symptoms, but also attacks the underlying cause of many chronic injuries.
Shockwave technology
At Regenerat clinics, we use state-of-the-art equipment that guarantees safe, precise and effective application.
The devices used are:
- EMS Swiss DolorClast® (radial waves): ideal for large muscle areas, superficial tendon insertions, and trigger points. Its action is diffuse, rapid, and well tolerated.
- Richard Wolf PiezoWave² (focal waves): enables highly targeted treatment with penetrations of up to 12 cm. Used for deep tendons, calcifications or areas that are difficult to access. It has a wide variety of heads that adapt to the patient’s anatomy.
Both systems offer precise control of energy, frequency and intensity, allowing us to adjust the treatment according to the patient’s clinical progress.
What is a shockwave session like?
Each shockwave session is an outpatient procedure that usually lasts between 10 and 20 minutes, depending on the condition being treated and the number of areas involved.
First, the specialist locates the painful area by palpation and/or ultrasound and selects the appropriate type of wave (focal or radial), as well as the most suitable head to reach the desired depth. In the case of focal waves, a conductive gel is applied to improve energy transmission.
During the session, between 1,000 and 3,000 acoustic impacts are applied, with a frequency ranging from 4 to 15 Hz. The procedure may cause slight discomfort or pressure, especially in inflamed areas, but it is perfectly tolerable in most cases.
Some patients even notice an immediate improvement after the first application.
No anaesthesia or prior medication is required. After the session, the patient may resume their normal activities, unless otherwise indicated by the professional.
Musculoskeletal conditions treated with shock therapy
Shock waves are indicated for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. The most common ones are described below, based on Regenerat’s clinical practice.
Gluteal tendinopathy
Degenerative injury of the gluteus medius or minor muscle, common in runners and active women. It is often accompanied by trochanteric pain.
- Treatment: combination of focal waves on the gluteal enthesis and radial waves on the superficial region.
- Benefits: reduces pain and improves pelvic stability.
Trochanteric bursitis
Inflammation of the trochanteric bursa, a common cause of lateral hip pain.
- Treatment: localised radial waves.
- Objective: to reduce inflammation and sensitivity in the affected area.
Achilles tendinopathy
Degeneration of the Achilles tendon, with pain localised in the heel or lower third of the calf.
- Therapy: focal waves for the deep tendon and radial waves for the tendon body.
- Expected results: improved walking or running function.
Patellar tendinopathy
A common injury in jumping or impact sports. Pain in the front of the knee, just below the kneecap.
- Intervention: focal waves on the enthesis and radial waves on the distal quadriceps if there is complementary tension.
- Objective: to accelerate repair and relieve pain.
Supraspinatus tendinopathy
It affects the rotator cuff of the shoulder. It can limit mobility and cause night-time pain.
- Treatment: focused waves directed at the subacromial tendon.
- Importance: prevents progression to partial or total rupture.
Calcific tendinitis of the shoulder
Accumulation of calcium deposits in shoulder tendons. Very painful in acute phases.
- Sequential treatment: first focal to break up the calcification, then radial in the deltoid.
- Advantage: effective alternative to surgery.
Epicondylitis / epitrochleitis
Inflammation of the tendons in the elbow (tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow).
- Approach: focal waves on the insertion and radial waves on the superficial musculature.
- Improvement: functional recovery without resorting to injections.
Plantar fasciitis and heel spur
A sharp pain in the sole of the foot, especially when getting up in the morning.
- Treatment: focused waves on the spur or plantar fascia and radial waves on the arch of the foot.
- Benefit: deep reduction of inflammation and recovery of foot strike.
Groin pain
Pain in the groin or adductors, very common in footballers.
- Intervention: focal waves on the insertion of adductors and rectus abdominis.
- Result: improved athletic performance and reduced chronic pain.
Pyramidal syndrome and Clunean entrapment
Pain radiating from the gluteal area to the thigh or pelvis.
- Approach: focal waves along the nerve pathway and radial waves on superficial tissue.
- Objective: to release the entrapment and reduce radiating pain.
Proximal hamstring tendinopathy
Deep pain in the gluteal fold, common in running or cycling sports.
- Therapy: focal waves on the ischiatic enthesis.
- Result: improved flexibility and athletic performance.
Posterior tibial tendinopathy
Injury to the foot or medial region of the leg that affects walking.
- Treatment: focal on the tendon insertion, radial along its path.
- Benefit: biomechanical recovery of the foot.
Myofascial trigger points
Painful muscle spasms with radiation.
- Solution: radial waves if superficial, focal if deep.
- Advantage: muscle relaxation without the need for dry needling.
Tibial periostitis
Shin pain due to overuse, typical in runners.
- Approach: radial waves exclusively.
- Result: reduction in inflammation of the periosteum and gradual return to training.
Delayed bone healing
Fractures that have not healed properly after several weeks.
- Therapy: high-energy focal waves.
- Objective: to stimulate osteogenesis and close the fracture without surgery.
Post-surgical fibrosis
Deep adhesions following surgery or trauma.
- Application: focal waves to break up fibrosis.
- Improvement: recovery of mobility and reduction of residual pain.
Results and number of sessions recommended
Although the number of sessions may vary depending on the injury, most clinical protocols recommend between 3 and 6 sessions, with a frequency of one per week.
- In acute conditions, some patients experience clear improvement after the first or second session.
- In chronic or resistant cases, a full course is required to achieve significant and lasting effects.
The most common results include:
- Gradual reduction of pain
- Improvement in joint and muscle function
- Returning to sport without relapses
- Decrease in the use of anti-inflammatory drugs
It should be noted that the therapeutic effect usually consolidates in the weeks following the last treatment, as the biological regeneration triggered by the shock waves continues over time.
Side effects and contraindications
Shockwave therapy is safe and well tolerated by most patients. However, some mild side effects may occur, such as:
- Local redness or temporary inflammation.
- Sensitivity or pain in the treated area for 24–48 hours.
- Minor bruising in areas with superficial capillaries.
These symptoms disappear without intervention and are part of the normal physiological response.
Absolute contraindications
- Pregnancy.
- Presence of pacemaker.
- Malignant tumours in the area to be treated.
- Severe coagulation disorders.
- Active infections or open wounds.
Before starting treatment, the professional must carry out a full medical assessment to rule out any risks and adapt the protocol if necessary.
Recommendations before and after treatment
To optimise the effects of the treatment, certain measures are recommended before and after each session.
Before the session
- Avoid taking anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen) for at least 48 hours beforehand.
- Do not apply topical or anti-inflammatory creams to the area on the day of the session.
- Inform the healthcare professional of any changes in the progression of symptoms.
After the session
- Avoid strenuous exercise or sporting activities for 24–48 hours.
- Apply ice locally in case of residual pain.
- Do not take anti-inflammatory drugs during the first 48 hours after treatment (they may interfere with the biological response).
- Follow the therapeutic exercise recommendations if they are included in the treatment plan.
Patient feedback
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Shockwave therapy price
The price per shockwave therapy session is €90, 3 sessions €250 and 5 sessions €400.
During the procedure, relief techniques such as the application of local cold or conductive gel are used to ensure patient comfort and minimise any discomfort.
The total number of sessions varies depending on the injury and its chronicity. In mild cases, 1 or 2 applications may be sufficient, while in chronic or complex injuries, up to 5 or 6 sessions may be indicated.
We help you access treatment with complete convenience.
If you wish, you can finance your treatment quickly and securely, with immediate financing options of up to €1,000 without interest.
Regenerat: orthopedic surgery clinic with the best specialist in osteoarthritis of the knee in Torrent
Specialist in orthopaedic surgery and traumatology, regenerative medicine centre in Valencia and physiotherapy clinic in Torrent.
Call ☎ 961 146 834
Regenerat is a pediatric and adult trauma clinic, specialized in regenerative medicine treatments that delay and avoid orthopedic surgery in many cases. Our patients get an unbiased diagnosis and we offer various surgical and non-surgical treatment options.
Although we do not have clinics in these locations, we are the best option for those who are looking for traumatologists in Denia or Jávea…., traumatologists in Aldaia or Alaquás… from our clinics in Torrente or Gandía.
In them we are able to offer innovative treatments to eliminate your osteoarthritis pain, tendinitis… and joint pain, and they are only a few minutes away.
Your health is closer than you think!
We are located at C/ Ciutat de Laval, 23, 46702 Gandia, Valencia, Spain.
Also in C/ del Mestre Lorenzo Fuertes Julvez, 14, 46901 Torrent
Make an appointment in Gandia, Catarroja or Torrent
If you prefer, leave us your details and we will contact you as soon as possible.
Regenerat clinic: III Wellness and Quality of Life Awards
Reference Center in Regenerative Therapies
The headquarters of the newspaper La Razón in Madrid hosted the gala ceremony of the third edition of the Wellness and Quality of Life Awards,
These awards recognize the work of companies and professionals who help to improve people’s lives.
The effort to change or improve aspects of our society is a task that requires dedication, creativity and innovation on the part of professionals and companies.
Today we celebrate the 3rd edition of the #WellnessQualityAwardsLR to reward and recognize them for it.
Regenerat clinica receives the “Center of reference in regenerative therapies” award.
Contact information
☎ 961 146 834
info@regeneratclinica.com
Schedule
Mornings – 9:30am – 14:00pm
Afternoons – 16:00pm – 20:00pm
Saturday & Sunday – Closed
Regenerat Clinic in Catarroja
Carrer Emili Ferrer Gómez, 4, 46470
Regenerat Clinic in Torrent
C/ del Mestre Lorenzo Fuertes Julvez, 14, 46901
Regenerat Clinic in Gandia
C/ Ciutat de Laval, 23, 46702 Gandia, Valencia
