Is Shockwave Therapy effective for Achilles tendonitis in Harpenden, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire?

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If you’ve been struggling with pain or tightness in your heel or lower calf  especially first thing in the morning or after exercise  you might be dealing with Achilles tendonitis.

It’s frustrating, painful, and can stop you from walking comfortably or enjoying you favorite sports. 

I’ve been helping people across Harpenden, and towns and villages all across Hertfordshire, and Bedfordshire recover from Achilles problems for years - getting them back to walking, running, and training without pain. Some had it for months and even years!  More information on Shockwave therapy

If that sounds like you, and you would like to find out more  - this blog will answer the three questions I’m asked most often. If you have more I'm more than happy to answer those too. 

1. Is shockwave therapy effective for Achilles tendonitis?

2. How long does it take to recover?

3. Do I need injections or surgery, or are there better alternatives?

4. Bonus question! 

 Is Shockwave Therapy Effective for Achilles Tendonitis? 

You may have tried a million and one things already (ice, stretches, heat, massage, acupuncture, insoles, physio.......!) Maybe they have worked a bit but you're still struggling. 

So, people are talking about Shockwave therapy? Rightly so, since I've starting using it, its been a game-changer for stubborn Achilles injuries. More information on Shockwave therapy

Yes shockwave therapy is one of the most effective treatments for stubborn Achilles tendon pain, especially when rest, stretching, or physiotherapy haven’t helped.

How it works: It works by sending high-energy sound waves into the tendon, which helps to:

• Stimulate blood flow and new tissue growth

• Break down scar tissue and calcifications

• Reduce pain sensitivity in the tendon

• Trigger the body’s natural repair process

I often describe it as “supercharging your recovery” — it restarts healing in areas that have become stuck in a chronic, inflamed state. Bringing in 'new life' to the tissue that doesn't seem to change. 

Many of my patients have  improved movement and reduced pain within a few sessions. Some very stubborn Achilles may take up to 8 sessions but we get there in the end (90% success rate). 

The great thing is  treatment is non-invasive, drug-free, and requires no downtime, so you can keep active while healing - I'll guide you on this!

How Long Does It Take to Recover from Achilles Tendon Pain?

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If you’ve been in pain for a while, you’re likely eager to get back to walking or training without pain.

The good news is, with consistent treatment, most people start feeling better within 4–6 weeks. Of course, recovery time depends on the severity, how long you’ve had the problem, and your daily activity levels.

It's a good idea to supplement your Shockwave treatment with a progressive back to sports/work programme so you develop the strength in the tendon - so you can start doing your favorite things again!

I've developed a  Achilles Treatment programme includes:

• Shockwave therapy (usually 4–8 sessions)

• Targeted strengthening of the calf and Achilles tendon

• Load management advice (temporary activity adjustments)

• Manual therapy or mobility work if needed

Some patients feel a difference after just a few sessions; others need a longer plan for chronic cases. What’s important is combining shockwave with progressive rehab to restore full tendon strength and resilience.

More information on Shockwave therapy

Alt text: Patient performing calf strengthening exercise for Achilles tendonitis recovery 

 Do I Need Injections or Surgery for Achilles Tendonitis - or Are There Alternatives?

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In most cases  no, you don’t need injections or surgery. Research shows that long-term outcomes are actually better with structured, non-surgical treatment like shockwave therapy and exercise rehabilitation. And let's face - most people I speak to want to avoid surgery and see it as a last resort. 

There's a down side to injections - steroid injections can reduce pain temporarily, but they don’t address the underlying tendon issue and may weaken tissue over time. Surgery is usually only considered if all other options have failed (which is rare).

The Shockwave and back to work/sports exercise programme approach focuses on fixing the root cause, not just masking symptoms. By improving tendon health, strength, and alignment, I help you return to activity safely and confidently.

Achilles tendon rehabilitation exercises for pain recovery - I gradually increase load on the tendon. 

 Bonus question! How do I know what foot injury I have?

You may be confused about the difference between Achilles tendonitis, heel bursitis, and plantar fasciitis.
They can all cause heel or lower leg pain, but each affects a different structure. Sometimes patients have a mixture of the 3 conditions. It's important to spend time fully assessing the foot and lower leg to be clear what we are dealing with and the treatment you will need. 

To explain the difference between Achilles tendonitis, heel bursitis, and plantar fasciitis.

Achilles tendonitis involves irritation or small tears in the tendon at the back of your heel. Heel bursitis affects the fluid sac between the tendon and bone, causing pain when pressing or wearing shoes. Plantar fasciitis is inflammation under the foot, often causing pain with first steps in the morning.

Your assessment is where I'll  fully examine your leg and foot, diagnose the cause, and give you clarity about what’s really going on — and how to fix it.

Many people I see come to me  after months of frustration and are amazed at how much better they feel after just a few shockwave sessions combined with the right exercises. They return to running, walking, and even sport without worrying about pain coming back.