Shockwave Therapy for Persistent Tendon & Fascia Pain
If you’re dealing with chronic tendon pain, plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, or stubborn muscle tightness that isn’t improving, shockwave therapy may help stimulate healing and reduce pain.
At Pillars of Wellness, shockwave therapy is integrated into personalized physiotherapy and rehabilitation plans designed around your condition, mobility, and recovery goals.
Our registered physiotherapists use evidence-based treatment approaches to help improve movement, support tissue healing, and reduce ongoing discomfort without surgery or prolonged reliance on medication.
Whether you’re recovering from a sports injury or managing a long-term condition, we’ll help determine whether shockwave therapy is the right fit for your recovery plan.
Reviewed by Mari Mueller, Registered Physiotherapist (CPO) | MSc. Physiotherapy, McMaster University.
Why Patients Choose
Pillars of Wellness
- 5One-on-One Assessment
- 5Registered Physiotherapists (CPO)
- 5Evidence-Based Shockwave Therapy
- 5Direct Billing Available
- 5Evening & Weekend Appointments
- 5Free Parking in Burlington (Aldershot)
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy uses sound waves to stimulate healing in injured tissue.
Despite the name, there is no electricity involved. The treatment sends mechanical pulses into the affected area. These pulses may help improve blood flow, reduce pain sensitivity, and support tissue repair.
It is most effective for chronic conditions, particularly when symptoms have persisted for 3 months or longer and other approaches have not produced lasting results.
It is most often used for chronic conditions, especially when symptoms have lasted longer than 3 months.
Who Is Shockwave Therapy For?
Shockwave therapy may be a good fit if:
- Your pain has lasted more than 2–3 months
- The issue keeps returning despite rest or other treatment
- Progress has plateaued with physiotherapy or exercise alone
- You want to avoid injections or surgery
- You feel “stuck” and aren’t sure what to try next
At our Burlington clinic, we use shockwave therapy selectively, only when the assessment indicates it’s appropriate for your condition and stage of recovery.
Conditions Shockwave Therapy May Help With
Shockwave therapy is most often used for tendon and fascia-related pain that hasn’t responded to other treatments.
Plantar Fasciitis (Heel Pain)
This is one of the most common reasons people seek shockwave therapy. Plantar fasciitis causes pain in the heel or arch, often worst with the first steps in the morning or after sitting for a while. When heel pain has persisted for months despite stretching, footwear changes, or orthotics, shockwave therapy may help restart the healing process. Clinical evidence for shockwave therapy is among the strongest for this condition.
Achilles Tendinopathy (Achilles Tendon Pain)
Ongoing Achilles pain — especially when walking, climbing stairs, or returning to activity — is one of the most common reasons people seek shockwave therapy. It can be used for both insertional Achilles tendinopathy (pain at the base of the heel) and mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy (pain along the tendon itself).
Shockwave therapy is typically considered when symptoms have persisted for 3 months or longer despite rest, stretching, or physiotherapy. Clinical evidence for shockwave therapy in Achilles tendinopathy is strong, and it is often recommended before considering injection or surgical options.
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Helpful for chronic outer elbow pain affecting grip, lifting, or everyday tasks like carrying groceries or using a computer mouse.
Learn more about tennis elbow physiotherapy.
Shoulder Tendon Pain
Sometimes used for calcific tendinitis or long-standing rotator cuff pain that hasn’t improved with other approaches.
Other Chronic Tendon Injuries
Including patellar tendon pain (jumper’s knee), hip tendon issues, and other overuse injuries that are slow to heal.
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How Shockwave Therapy Helps
Chronic injuries don’t always heal like new ones. Over time, tissue can become overloaded and caught in a cycle of irritation and pain, without the acute inflammation that normally drives healing.
Shockwave therapy may help by:
- Triggering a healing response in tissue that has stopped progressing
- Improving circulation in the affected area
- Reducing local pain sensitivity
- Helping you tolerate movement and load again
At Pillars of Wellness, we pair shockwave therapy with exercise and load management. That combination — not the shockwave alone — is what drives lasting results.
Our Approach at Pillars of Wellness
Shockwave therapy works best as part of a bigger plan, not as a standalone treatment. Your care at our Burlington clinic typically includes:
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A comprehensive assessment to understand the root cause
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A clear diagnosis and structured recovery plan
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Shockwave therapy applied when clinically appropriate
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Guided exercise and progression
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Practical advice on activity, work, and return to sport
When needed, we coordinate across disciplines, all under one roof. Your physiotherapist, chiropractor, massage therapist, and acupuncturist can communicate directly, without referral letters or delays. That means your care moves faster and nothing gets missed.
What To Expect During Shockwave Therapy?
Sessions are short and done in clinic. Here’s how it typically works:
- A handheld device is applied to the painful area
- You will feel a tapping or pulsing sensation — some discomfort is normal in sensitive areas
- Each session usually lasts 5–10 minutes
- Most treatment plans involve 3 to 5 sessions, spaced about one week apart
After your session, you may feel mild soreness for 24–48 hours, this is a normal part of the healing response. Most people can continue daily activities throughout treatment. We’ll give you clear guidance on what to do (and avoid) between sessions.
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When Will You See Results?
This is the question we hear most often.
Results are gradual, not immediate. Some people notice meaningful improvement within 2–3 weeks of starting treatment. For others, the full benefit builds over several weeks after the final session as tissue continues to heal.
In general:
- Pain may reduce gradually over several weeks
- Function and tolerance to activity improve as strength returns
- Full recovery depends on your specific condition, how long it’s been present, and how consistently you follow the rehab plan
We’ll set realistic expectations at your assessment so you know what to look for and when to expect it.
Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You?
Not every condition need shockwave therapy, and not every case is a good fit.
In some situations, a structured exercise program alone produces excellent results. In others, a different treatment approach may be more appropriate. There are also cases where shockwave therapy is not recommended, such as during pregnancy, near growth plates in younger patients, or over certain areas.
The first step is always an assessment. We’ll identify what’s causing your pain, what stage of recovery you’re in, and whether shockwave therapy belongs in your plan.
Why Choose Pillars of Wellness for Shockwave Therapy in Burlington?
We Focus on the Root Cause
Chronic pain rarely has a single cause. We assess contributing factors, movement patterns, load, history, lifestyle, so your plan addresses what’s actually driving the problem, not just where you feel it.
Experienced, Registered Providers
Shockwave therapy at Pillars of Wellness is delivered within a clinical plan led by regulated healthcare professionals — physiotherapists and chiropractors who are trained in musculoskeletal assessment and rehabilitation. The device is a tool. The clinical reasoning behind it is what makes it effective.
Integrated Care Under One Roof
Pillars of Wellness brings together physiotherapy, chiropractic, massage therapy, acupuncture, naturopathy, and more in one Burlington location. If your recovery benefits from more than one discipline, we coordinate that care directly — no extra referrals, no gaps in communication.
Built Around Your Goals
Whether you want to walk to work without pain, return to a sport, or get through a full day without stopping — we build your plan around that specific goal, and track progress toward it.
Serving Burlington and Surrounding Areas
Conveniently located in Burlington, with patients from Aldershot, Oakville, Hamilton, and surrounding communities.
Looking For Expert Physiotherapists in Burlington, Ontario?
Located in Aldershot, Burlington at 100 Plains Rd W, free parking, direct billing available. Evening and weekend physiotherapy appointments in Burlington.
Testimonials
We’re proud to have helped countless patients in Burlington regain their strength, mobility, and confidence. Here’s what some of them have to say about their experience with our healthcare professional team.
Before Your Visit
Frequently Asked Questions
About Shockwave Therapy in Burlington
Is shockwave therapy painful?
You may feel some discomfort during treatment — particularly over sensitive areas. Most people tolerate it well, and the sensation is brief. We adjust intensity based on your feedback throughout the session.
How many sessions will I need?
Most people complete 3 to 5 sessions. This depends on the condition, how long you’ve had it, and how your body responds to treatment.
How quickly does it work?
Results are gradual. Some people notice improvement within a few weeks. For others, the full benefit continues to develop for several weeks after the final session. We set clear expectations at your assessment.
Do I still need physiotherapy?
In most cases, yes. Shockwave therapy is most effective when combined with a guided exercise and rehabilitation program. It helps restart the healing process — but exercise and load management are what build lasting recovery.
Is shockwave therapy covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on your plan and provider. Some extended health plans cover it under physiotherapy or chiropractic. We can help clarify based on your benefits.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is required. You can book directly with our clinic for an assessment.
Are there any conditions where shockwave therapy isn't appropriate?
Yes. Shockwave therapy is not recommended during pregnancy, near open growth plates, over areas with active infection or certain tumors, or if you take blood thinners. Your provider will review contraindications at your assessment.
Feel free to contact us for more information or book your physiotherapy in Burlington today!
Payment Options
Auto Insurance
If you have an illness or injury from a motor vehicle accident, health services may be covered under your auto insurance plan.
Extended HEalth Benefits
If you are receiving long-term disability income from an insurance program, your program may cover various health services, or you might have a work benefits package which covers a portion of the health services.
Private Services
At Pillars of Wellness we offer competitive rates within the standards of our regulatory colleges. We accept payment through cash, credit or debit. Please contact us for more details related to service fees.
Book Shockwave Therapy in Burlington
If your pain has been lingering and not improving, it may be time to try a different approach. Shockwave therapy could be one option—but the right plan starts with understanding your condition.
Book an assessment today and we’ll help you decide the best next step for your recovery.



