Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) in Marple
Shockwave Therapy is an evidence-based treatment that is particularly effective for stubborn tendon problems, plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, shoulder tendinopathy, and other chronic soft tissue conditions that haven't responded to conventional treatment.

Introduction
If you've had tendon or heel pain for months and rest, stretches or injections haven't sorted it, shockwave therapy may be worth a look. It's a non-invasive treatment that sends pulses of sound energy into the sore tissue. It's often used for plantar fasciitis, tennis and golfer's elbow, Achilles pain and pain on the outside of the hip. At Complete Recovery Physiotherapy in Marple, a physio always assesses you first. Shockwave is used alongside a strengthening programme, not instead of one, because that's how it works best.

Common Symptoms
- Persistent heel pain, especially first thing in the morning
- Pain at the back of the heel that won't settle with rest
- Tenderness on the outside or inside of the elbow
- Shoulder pain with restricted movement and lifting
- Pain at the front of the knee, especially with jumping or stairs
- Pain on the outside of the hip when lying on that side
- Tendon pain that has lasted more than 3 months despite rest and exercises
- Discomfort that returns as soon as you resume activity
Common Causes
- Chronic tendon overuse from repetitive sport or work activities
- Sudden increases in training load, distance or intensity
- Age-related tendon changes that reduce healing capacity
- Failed healing from a previous acute injury that became chronic
- Biomechanical factors — flat feet, tight calves, poor technique
- Inadequate rehabilitation following an initial injury
- Underlying inflammatory or metabolic conditions affecting tendon health
- Prolonged rest followed by sudden return to full activity
Is It Right for Me?
Shockwave is usually considered for tendon or soft tissue pain that has lasted more than about three months and hasn't improved with good exercise-based treatment. It isn't suitable for everyone. For example, we don't use it in pregnancy, over a recent steroid injection, or near areas with infection or a tumour. If you take blood-thinning medication, shockwave is usually still possible with our machine; we'll just check your medication and adjust the treatment to suit. We'll go through all of this with you before any treatment.
What It's Used For
- Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
- Tennis elbow and golfer's elbow
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Pain on the outside of the hip (GTPS)
- Shoulder tendon pain, including calcific tendinopathy
- Kneecap tendon pain (patellar tendinopathy)
Ready to Try Shockwave Therapy?
Book your assessment today. A physio always assesses you first, and shockwave is combined with a strengthening programme for the best results.
What a Session Feels Like
Each session takes a few minutes of actual shockwave time within your physio appointment. It feels like a firm, rapid tapping. It can be uncomfortable over the sore spot, and we adjust the intensity so it stays manageable. You can walk, drive and work as normal afterwards. Some people feel a bit sore for a day or two. A course is usually three to five sessions about a week apart, and the benefit tends to build over the following weeks.
Cost
Shockwave is £15 on top of a standard session, or £40 for a block of three. It's included at no extra cost in our treatment packages where it's clinically appropriate. See our pricing page.
Everything You Need to Know Before Booking
No GP referral needed. Direct access appointments available — often same-day or within a few days.
What Happens at Your First Appointment
Your first session is a 45-minute comprehensive assessment. We start by listening — understanding your symptoms, your history, and what you want to get back to. We then carry out a thorough hands-on physical examination to identify the root cause of your problem. You'll receive a clear explanation of what's going on, a personalised treatment plan, and hands-on treatment begins in that very first session. You leave knowing exactly what's wrong, what we'll do about it, and how long recovery will take.
What Should I Wear?
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the area we're treating. For knee, hip, or leg problems, shorts are ideal. For shoulder, neck, or back issues, a loose top or vest works well. You'll never be asked to undress beyond what's necessary for examination and treatment, and you'll always be treated with dignity and respect in our private treatment room.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
This depends on your condition, how long you've had it, and your goals. Many patients feel significant improvement within 3–6 sessions. Acute injuries often resolve faster, while long-standing or complex conditions may need more. We'll give you a clear treatment timeline at your first appointment — and we only ever recommend sessions you genuinely need. Our goal is to get you independent and pain-free as quickly as possible, not to keep you coming back.
Can I Claim Through Insurance?
Yes. We are recognised by most major health insurance providers including AXA, Vitality, Bupa, WPA, and Healix. We can bill your insurer directly so you don't need to pay upfront — simply bring your insurance authorisation number to your appointment. If you're not sure whether you're covered, call us and we'll help you check before you book.
Meet the Team
Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) in Marple Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choose Complete Recovery Physiotherapy?
Evidence-Based Approach
We use shockwave only when it's clinically indicated, based on the latest research and your individual assessment.
Not Just Shockwave
We combine ESWT with hands-on treatment and rehab exercises — addressing the whole picture, not just the painful spot.
Certified Practitioners
Our physiotherapists are specifically trained and certified in shockwave therapy delivery.
Thorough Assessment First
We confirm your diagnosis before starting treatment, so you know shockwave is the right choice for your condition.
Clear Recovery Plan
You'll leave every session with specific exercises and advice to support healing between treatments.
Free Parking at Bowden Hall
Convenient Marple location with free parking right at the clinic door — easy weekly visits.
Related

Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis causes sharp heel pain, often worst with the first steps in the morning. We settle the irritation and rebuild the tissue with targeted loading and hands-on treatment at our Marple clinic.
Learn More
Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow is a painful tendon problem on the outer elbow, usually caused by overuse rather than tennis. We rebuild the tendon with a progressive loading programme and hands-on treatment, easing pain and restoring grip strength.
Learn More
Golfers Elbow
Golfers elbow is a tendon problem on the inner elbow causing pain with gripping, bending the wrist or throwing. We rebuild the tendon with a progressive loading programme and hands-on treatment, easing pain and restoring strength at our Marple clinic.
Learn More
Achilles Tendinopathy
Achilles tendinopathy causes pain and stiffness in the tendon at the back of the heel, often worst in the morning or after running. We rebuild the tendon with a progressive loading programme at our Marple clinic.
Learn More
Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome
Greater trochanteric pain syndrome causes aching on the outside of the hip, often from the gluteal tendons. We rebuild the tendon with a progressive loading programme and ease your pain, restoring comfortable sleeping and walking at our Marple clinic.
Learn MorePricing
Session costs, shockwave add-ons and treatment packages.
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Physiotherapy
At Complete Recovery Physio, everything we do is built around high-quality physiotherapy. Whether you're recovering from an injury, dealing with ongoing pain, or looking to move more freely, we're here to support you.
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Sports Physio
Whether you're a weekend warrior, a dedicated athlete, or someone who simply loves staying active, sports injuries can be incredibly frustrating. Our specialist sports physiotherapy service is designed to help you recover fully, safely, and as quickly as possible.
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Expert, hands-on physiotherapy in Marple. Free parking. Same-day and short-notice appointments often available.










