We are quite often asked this at our Coventry Clinic. The short and honest answer is NO!
What Shockwave Therapy feels Like…
Many people feel unsure about shockwave therapy because they imagine something sharp or intense. In reality, the treatment is designed to be comfortable. The purpose of shockwave is to encourage healing, reduce pain and improve mobility, not to create discomfort. Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how manageable the sensation is from the very first session. The device and wand do make a bit of a dull noise however!
The Sensation of Radial Shockwave
Radial shockwave is commonly used for conditions affecting larger or more surface level tissues such as the achilles tendon, plantar fascia, shoulder and elbow. During treatment, the device moves smoothly across the skin while delivering soft pulses of pressure. Most people describe this sensation as tapping or gentle percussion. As we’ve blogged about previously, that’s a wand with gel in between your skin and the wand.
It may feel slightly unusual for a moment, especially if the area being treated is tender, but the feeling settles very quickly. A good therapist will always adjust the intensity to suit you, keeping it at a comfortable level while still encouraging the body’s healing response. After the first minute or two, many patients notice the sensation becomes rhythmic and easy to tolerate. Some even find it relaxing. We had a patient fall asleep last week!
Sensation of Focused Shockwave
Focused shockwave delivers energy with precision, reaching deeper structures while still feeling gentle. Because the treatment is highly targeted, the therapist can keep the intensity lower while directing the energy exactly where it is needed. Most patients describe focused shockwave as a light pressure or a soft, concentrated tap that remains comfortable throughout the session.
If you feel sensitive in a specific spot, the therapist can slow down or adjust the settings instantly. The treatment is always guided by your comfort. Even though focused shockwave reaches deeper tissues, it does not feel sharp or painful. Instead, the sensation stays controlled and predictable.
Why Shockwave does not hurt
Shockwave therapy is not meant to be a painful experience. The aim is to stimulate healing and encourage the body to repair itself gradually. Your therapist monitors your comfort at every stage and adjusts the settings so the treatment stays gentle. After a session, the area may feel warm or slightly tingly, but this fades quickly and is simply part of the therapeutic response. Quite simple and very straightforward, as you’ll see from our Google Reviews on the subject. You can search for Central Shockwave Therapy Clinic.
Final Thoughts
Whether you receive radial or focused shockwave, the treatment should feel comfortable and reassuring. Most patients are surprised by how mild the sensation is and how quickly they adapt to it. If you have been concerned about pain, you can feel confident that shockwave therapy is a safe, gentle and effective treatment option.
Central Shockwave Therapy Clinic, 12 park road, CV1 2LD
