Focused Shockwave Aftercare Guide
This guide covers what to expect after your Focused Shockwave treatment, along with simple steps to support your recovery. Shockwave therapy works with your body’s natural healing process, so following this aftercare guidance closely will help you get the most out of each session.
For further information and reference:
https://fullcircleorthopedics.com/services/shockwave-therapy/
How It works:
- Sound (Acoustic) waves compress/release tissue with each “tick” you hear. In layman’s terms, this signals your body to increase “healing” cells and proteins (called growth factors) to the area. It also promotes increased blood flow and creation of new small blood vessels to “feed” the area. Lastly, it can “move out” damaged tissue cells and fluid making way for “fresh” cells and tissue. In essence, the goal is to “turn over” unhealthy tissue to healthy tissue and regenerate in areas of injury or damage.
Symptoms:
- May have decreased pain the day of and the day after treatment, however, mild soreness, stiffness, or achiness may occur for the subsequent 2-3 days.
- It can take 4-7 days for the “full effect” of the treatment.
- Mild “shooting pain” while the healing is taking place, especially at night.
AVOID:
- Anti-inflammatories (known as NSAIDs) topically and orally for 48 hours following the treatment. This includes Ibuprofen (Advil), Naproxen (Aleve), Celecoxib (Celebrex), Meloxicam (Mobic), Arnica, CBD, etc.
- Use of ice is discouraged for the first 48 hours
Use:
- Over the counter analgesics (Tylenol ES 1-2 tabs 3x/day, lidocaine topically, magnesium cream)
- Increase water intake
- Healthy Eating rich in protein, fruit, vegetables. Low in processed sugar and alcohol
- 8-9 hours sleep per night for the first two nights
Activity:
- There is no “down time” after shockwave treatment. However, it is advised to “take it easy” on the limb treated for the first 48 hours after the first 2-3 treatments. That way, we can see how you respond without too many variables in the mix
- You may exercise other areas of your body that did not receive treatment or exercise the treatment area with lighter exercises than normal. This can be discussed with a provider more fully on an individual basis.
Recovery Timeline:
Most people follow a similar recovery pattern after shockwave therapy, though every case is individual. In the first 48 hours, focus on rest and avoiding anti-inflammatories so your body’s natural healing response can take over. Between days 3 and 7, mild soreness typically fades and the full effect of the treatment starts to take hold. By weeks 2 to 4, many patients notice steady improvement in pain and function, especially when combined with a structured rehab or exercise program. Full benefits from a series of shockwave treatments often build over several weeks, so patience and consistency with the aftercare steps above make a real difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal to feel worse before feeling better after shockwave therapy?
Yes. Mild soreness, stiffness, or shooting pain in the days following treatment is a normal part of the healing process as your body responds to the shockwave treatment. This typically resolves within a week.
Can I work out after shockwave therapy?
You can exercise areas of your body that were not treated right away. For the treated area itself, keep activity light for the first 48 hours after your first 2-3 shockwave sessions so we can monitor your response.
Why should I avoid anti-inflammatories after shockwave therapy?
Shockwave therapy works by intentionally triggering a controlled inflammatory healing response. NSAIDs and ice can blunt that response, so avoiding them for 48 hours helps your body get the full benefit of the treatment.
Ongoing research continues to refine best practices for shockwave therapy recovery protocols, as documented in studies available on PubMed.
When to Contact Us:
While mild soreness after shockwave therapy is expected, reach out to our office if you experience significant swelling, signs of infection, or pain that worsens instead of improving after the first week. We are here to support you through every step of your recovery.