Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy in Recife
Shockwave treatment for chronic tendonitis, epicondylitis, plantar fasciitis, and calcifications in Recife.
What are Extracorporeal Shockwaves?
Extracorporeal shockwaves are high-energy acoustic waves applied to tissues to stimulate regeneration, reduce inflammation, and destroy calcifications. It is a non-invasive treatment with a high success rate for chronic tendonitis.
The mechanism of action involves controlled microtrauma that activates the body's healing response, stimulating neovascularization (formation of new blood vessels) and releasing growth factors that promote tissue regeneration.
How Does the Treatment Work?
1. Localization
Precise identification of the pain point via palpation and ultrasound
2. Application
Application of 2000-3000 high-energy pulses to the affected area
3. Regeneration
Stimulation of tissue regeneration over 6-12 weeks
Each session lasts approximately 10-15 minutes. The patient feels a sensation of strong tapping on the spot, with intensity adjusted according to tolerance.
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy
Non-Invasive Treatment
No need for surgery or anesthesia
High Success Rate
70-85% significant improvement in studies
No Recovery Time
Immediate return to daily activities
Lasting Effect
Results maintained long-term
Reduces Need for Surgery
Effective alternative before considering surgery
Stimulates Natural Regeneration
Activates natural healing processes
Main Indications
Shoulder Tendonitis
- • Calcific tendonitis of the rotator cuff
- • Supraspinatus tendonitis
- • Chronic subacromial bursitis
Elbow Tendonitis
- • Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow)
- • Medial epicondylitis (golfer's elbow)
Knee Tendonitis
- • Patellar tendonitis (jumper's knee)
- • Iliotibial band syndrome
Foot and Ankle Conditions
- • Chronic plantar fasciitis
- • Achilles tendonitis
- • Heel spur
Other Indications
- • Trochanteritis (trochanteric bursitis)
- • Pseudoarthrosis (bone healing failure)
- • Myofascial trigger points
Treatment Protocol
Number of Sessions
Standard protocol: 3 to 5 sessions with a 1-week interval between each application. Chronic cases may require additional sessions.
Session Duration
Each session lasts 10-15 minutes. Application of 2000-3000 pulses per session, depending on the treated area.
Expected Results
Gradual improvement over 6-12 weeks after the last session. Success rate of 70-85% for chronic conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are extracorporeal shockwaves?
Extracorporeal shockwaves are high-energy acoustic waves applied to tissues to stimulate cell regeneration, increase blood flow, reduce inflammation, and destroy calcifications. It is a non-invasive treatment with a high success rate for chronic tendonitis resistant to conservative treatment.
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
The treatment can cause discomfort during application but is well tolerated by most patients. Intensity is adjusted according to individual tolerance. It does not require anesthesia, and the patient returns immediately to normal activities after the session.
How many sessions are necessary?
The standard protocol consists of 3 to 5 sessions with a 1-week interval between each application. Most patients show significant improvement after the second or third session. Chronic cases may require more sessions.
Does shockwave therapy work for plantar fasciitis?
Yes. Studies show a 70-80% success rate in treating chronic plantar fasciitis with shockwaves. It is indicated mainly for cases that have not responded to conservative treatment (physiotherapy, insoles, anti-inflammatories) for at least 3-6 months.
What are the contraindications?
Contraindications include: pregnancy, use of anticoagulants, local infection, venous thrombosis, tumors in the area, children in bone growth phase. Patients with pacemakers must be evaluated individually.
Insurance
Shockwave therapy is covered by some health plans upon prior authorization. Consult the list of accepted insurance plans.
Clinically Reviewed by:
Dr. Oyama Arruda Jr.
Orthopedics and Traumatology
CRM/PE 21167 | RQE 2217, 2808
This content is informative and does not replace individual medical evaluation.
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Physician specializing in Orthopedics and Traumatology, with national leadership in Shockwave Therapy (TOC).
Note: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. The information is based on scientific evidence and the clinical practice of the Intrador team, but it does not replace individualized medical evaluation. Conduct, indications, and treatments must be defined after medical consultation.
Clinical reviewer: Dr. Helio Widson Alves Pinheiro · Pain Medicine | Acupuncture · CRM/PE 21167 | RQE 2217, 2808
Published on: January 17, 2026
Reviewed on: January 29, 2026
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