Shockwave Therapy
Burlington
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment with a 91% improvement rate for chronic tendon injuries, stubborn muscle pain, and conditions that haven't responded to other treatments. At Propel Active in Burlington, we use the gold-standard STORZ MP100+ equipment—the same device used in the clinical research that established these success rates—delivered by experienced chiropractors and physiotherapists.
Sessions can be billed under either chiropractic or physiotherapy benefits.
**BILLED DIRECTLY THROUGH PRIVATE INSURANCE**
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), delivers acoustic pressure waves directly to injured tissue through the skin. Unlike ultrasound, shockwave creates controlled micro-trauma that triggers your body's natural healing response.
The treatment works by:
- Increasing blood flow to damaged tissue through new blood vessel formation
- Stimulating collagen production, the building block of tendons and ligaments
- Reducing pain signals by disrupting pain neurotransmitters
- Converting chronic injuries to acute healing mode so your body can repair them
Each treatment involves 2,000-3,000 shockwave pulses delivered over ~10 minutes. Most patients describe it as a strong tapping sensation—uncomfortable but tolerable.
What to Expect During Shockwave Treatment
Before: Your practitioner assesses your condition and explains the process. Ultrasound gel is applied to the treatment area.
During: The shockwave applicator delivers pulses over ~10 minutes. You'll feel a strong tapping sensation. Intensity is adjusted to your comfort—uncomfortable but tolerable is the goal.
After: Return to normal activities immediately. Avoid intense exercise on the treated area for 24-48 hours. Some temporary soreness is normal and resolves within days.
Results: Some patients notice improvement after one session. Full therapeutic effects develop over several weeks as your body completes the healing process.
Conditions Treated with Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is most effective for chronic conditions (6+ weeks) that haven't fully responded to rest, medication, manual therapy or other treatments. Clinical studies show improvement rates of 76-95% depending on the condition:
Conditions List (with available evidence-based stats):
The most researched shockwave application. Significant improvement in heel pain, morning stiffness, and difficulty walking.
Chronic shoulder pain from calcium deposits. Shockwave breaks down calcifications and stimulates tendon healing.
Stubborn outer elbow pain from repetitive gripping. Promotes tendon healing when rest and bracing haven't worked.
Both insertional and mid-portion Achilles pain. Particularly effective for runners and active individuals.
Pain below the kneecap common in jumping sports, running, and squatting.
Stubborn muscle tension and knots that don't respond to massage, stretching, or dry needling.
Golfer's Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
DOI: 10.1093/bmb/ldv047
Inner elbow pain common in golfers and those doing repetitive wrist movements.
Hip Bursitis / Gluteal Tendinopathy
DOI: 10.1093/bmb/ldv047
Lateral hip pain that disrupts sleep and daily activities.
Why Choose Propel Active for Shockwave Therapy Burlington?
The Same Equipment Used in most Clinical Research
We use the STORZ MP100+ Ultimate—the exact equipment used in the double-blind, randomized controlled trials that established shockwave therapy's 91% improvement rate. Many clinics reference these same studies, but they use different equipment. When you choose Propel Active Health & Lifestyle, you're getting treatment with the technology the research was actually conducted on—not a budget alternative claiming similar results.
Specialist Practitioners
Every session is delivered by a registered healthcare professional with in-depth training and knowledge in using shockwave therapy. Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy will only be recommended if your provider feels strongly that you will benefit from the treatment.
Insurance Flexibility
Shockwave therapy in Burlington can be billed under chiropractic OR physiotherapy benefits—whichever has more coverage. Low on chiro benefits? Book with our physiotherapist. Physio maxed out? See one of our chiropractors. We offer direct insurance billing, so you only pay your portion.
Integrated Care
Shockwave works best as part of a complete treatment plan. We may combine it with manual therapy, exercise rehab, acupuncture and laser therapy to address the root cause—not just symptoms.
What Our Burlington Patients Are Saying
Frequently Asked Questions About Assisted Stretching in Burlington
Is shockwave therapy painful?
Most patients describe a strong and deep tapping sensation—uncomfortable but tolerable. The actual shockwave application only lasts about 10 minutes, and your practitioner adjusts the intensity to your comfort level. Any discomfort stops immediately when treatment ends. Some soreness and bruising may linger for 1-2 days after the treatment.
How many shockwave treatments will I need?
Most science-based shockwave therapy protocols start with 3 session, but may include a few more treatments. The frequency of sessions is 1 session per week.
Some patients notice relief after just one treatment, while others need the full course. Your practitioner will assess your progress at each visit and adjust your treatment plan accordingly. The full benefits of shockwave therapy often continue to develop for weeks after your final session as your body completes the healing process. For maintenance or recurring issues, occasional follow-up sessions every few months can help maintain results.
How frequently do I receive shockwave therapy?
The scientific evidence suggests shockwave treatments should be done at a frequency of 1 treatment per week for 3-6 weeks.
What's the success rate of shockwave therapy?
Double-blind, randomized controlled studies show up to 91% improvement rates, with success rates varying by condition: 84-90% for plantar fasciitis, 91% for calcific shoulder tendonitis, 77% for tennis elbow, and 95% for myofascial trigger points. These studies were conducted using STORZ equipment—the same brand we use at Propel Active Health & Lifestyle.
Is shockwave therapy covered by insurance?
Yes. At Propel Active Health & Lifestyle, shockwave therapy is performed by registered chiropractors and physiotherapists, so you can bill under either benefit—whichever has more coverage. We offer direct billing to your private insurance company, so you don't have to.
Are there side effects of shockwave therapy treatments?
Shockwave therapy is very safe. Some patients experience mild redness, slight bruising, or temporary soreness that resolves within 24-48 hours. No downtime—return to normal activities immediately.
Who should NOT have shockwave therapy?
Not recommended for pregnant women (if treating near the abdomen or torso), those with blood-clotting disorders or on blood thinners, people with infections or tumours in the treatment area, or those with severe circulation problems. We review your health history to ensure you are a good candidate for extracorporeal shockwave therapy.
How is shockwave therapy different from therapeutic ultrasound?
Ultrasound produces gentle warming for muscle relaxation. Shockwave uses higher-energy acoustic waves that create controlled micro-trauma to trigger healing. It's more intensive and targets stubborn chronic conditions.
Do I need a referral to receive shockwave?
No referral needed. Call us directly at 905-333-5665 to book shockwave therapy in Burlington. We'll assess whether SWT is right for your condition at your first visit.
What should I wear for my shockwave treatment?
Comfortable clothing that allows access to the treatment area. For foot conditions, shoes that are easy to remove. For the shoulder or hip, loose-fitting clothes that allow easy access to the shoulder or athletic wear.
Ready to Start Your Recovery?
Don't let chronic pain hold you back. Book a physiotherapy or chiropractic
INITIAL ASSESSMENT to start your shockwave therapy treatment plan at Propel Active Burlington
today.
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