Los Altos, CA
Treating Tennis Elbow: When Shockwave Therapy Might Be Your Next Step
If you’ve been treating tennis elbow for months without lasting improvement, you’re likely searching for something beyond the usual approaches. Rehabilitation programs don’t always resolve stubborn cases, and when conservative methods fall short, it’s worth exploring other options.
One treatment gaining traction is extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), approved by the FDA in 2003. While some physicians and insurance carriers still consider it experimental, ESWT has been used successfully in Europe for years and offers a non-invasive alternative for treating tennis elbow that hasn’t responded to traditional care.
How Shockwave Therapy Works For Treating Tennis Elbow
The procedure takes about 20 minutes, typically performed under light local anesthesia. Sound waves are directed at the affected area, creating controlled micro-damage to the tissues. This triggers the body’s natural healing response, increases blood flow, and reduces inflammation. Because ESWT is “extracorporeal”—meaning outside the body—it avoids the risks and extended recovery associated with surgery.
Two Types of ESWT
When treating tennis elbow with shockwave therapy in the United States, you’ll encounter two options:
- High-energy ESWT delivers electrohydraulic shock waves that stimulate new tissue growth while also affecting pain receptors. This approach addresses both the structural damage and the pain itself.
- Low-energy ESWT targets only the pain receptors. Because local anesthesia can’t be used with this method, patients typically find it less comfortable.
What to Expect For Treating Tennis Elbow
Recovery requires patience. Plan to take it easy for about four weeks, as bruising, swelling, and temporary numbness are common. Full healing can take up to 12 weeks. Physical therapy during this period is essential for transitioning back to normal activities.
Is Shockwave Right For Treating Your Tennis Elbow?
This procedure works best for people who’ve tried conservative methods without success. Before moving forward, contact your insurance company—many carriers don’t cover ESWT, and the specialized equipment makes it a costly procedure.
If you’re struggling with persistent tennis elbow, schedule a visit to discuss your options. We can evaluate whether you’ve completed a thorough rehabilitation program and help determine if shockwave therapy might benefit you. If you do pursue ESWT, we’ll support your recovery with targeted physical therapy to get you back to your normal routine.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Kim Gladfelter, MPT, OCS, FAAOMPT
Women's Health Physical Therapy Specialist at PhysioFit Physical Therapy & Wellness
Kim Gladfelter is a physical therapist, Pilates instructor, educator, author, and co-founder of PhysioFit Physical Therapy & Wellness. She is known as a keen, well-rounded expert of healing through movement and women’s health specialist in the Silicon Valley area.
Kim has helped men and women of all ages to stay active and feel their best. She also writes about managing pain in her health columns, blogs and the local Los Altos Town Crier newspaper as well as reaches out to the local community, support groups, schools, libraries, and sports centers to advise and educate on body awareness and therapeutic exercise.