BTL Focused Shockwave Therapy

Focused Shockwave eliminates chronic pain non-invasively

Focused Shockwave Therapy

Corrimal Chiropractic offers Focused Shockwave Therapy and is proud to be the only provider of this specifc highly advanced technology in the Illawarra region. This clinically proven, non-invasive treatment targets stubborn musculoskeletal pain that other therapies haven’t relieved.

What Is Focused Shockwave Therapy?

A new approach to chronic pain

Focused Shockwave Therapy uses high-energy acoustic waves – similar to sound waves – that are precisely targeted deep into injured or painful tissue. Unlike radial shockwave, focused technology delivers energy at a specific point beneath the skin, allowing treatment of deeper structures without discomfort to surrounding areas.

The BTL Focused Shockwave machine is one of the most advanced devices of its kind, used in clinics and sports medicine centres worldwide. It is particularly effective for conditions that have persisted for weeks, months, or even years.

How Does Focused Shockwave Therapy Work?

The science behind the results

When acoustic waves reach the target tissue, they trigger a cascade of biological responses that promote genuine healing – not just temporary pain relief.

Acoustic waves are delivered to the injury site

To begin, the specific BTL handpiece is placed on your skin with a small amount of gel, delivering high-energy focused waves precisely to the depth of your injury – whether that’s a tendon, ligament, or soft tissue structure.

Breakdown of calcifications and scar tissue

As a result, the mechanical energy disrupts calcified deposits and breaks down fibrotic (scar) tissue that has built up over time, helping restore normal tissue structure and flexibility.

Stimulation of blood flow and cell repair

At the same time, shockwaves trigger the release of growth factors and increase local circulation, kickstarting the healing process in tissue that has become chronically inflamed or degenerated.

Gradual reduction in pain

Over time, the treatment modulates nerve activity, reducing the intensity of pain signals. Many patients notice relief after the first few sessions, with continued improvement over time.

What Focused Shockwave Therapy Can Help With

Focused Shockwave therapy is particularly effective for chronic tendon, heel, and soft tissue conditions – especially those that haven’t fully resolved with rest, massage, conventional physiotherapy or even radial shockwave (superficial).

Plantar fasciitisAchilles tendinopathy
Heel spurs
Calcific shoulder tendinitis
Rotator cuff injuries
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
Golfer’s elbow
Patellar tendinopathy
Hamstring tendinopathy
Hip bursitis
Greater trochanteric pain
Chronic lower back pain
Shin splints
Trigger points

Not sure if shockwave is right for your condition? Our chiropractors will assess you thoroughly before recommending treatment.

What to expect

Your shockwave experience, step by step

Initial assessment

Your chiropractor will review your history, assess the area, and confirm whether shockwave therapy is appropriate for your condition. We’ll explain exactly what will happen and answer your questions.

During the session

A small amount of ultrasound gel is applied to the area, and the BTL handpiece is placed on your skin. You’ll feel a firm, rhythmic pressure and mild discomfort at the treatment site – this is normal. Sessions typically last 15–20 minutes.

Immediately after

Some patients experience temporary soreness or mild pain in the treated area. This is a normal healing response and usually resolves within 24–48 hours. Most people return to their daily activities straight away.

Over your course of treatment

Most conditions respond well to 3–6 sessions, spaced approximately one week apart. Many patients notice improvement from session 2 or 3 onwards, with continued progress over the following weeks as tissue heals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is shockwave therapy painful?

Most patients feel a noticeable but manageable pressure or mild discomfort during treatment – particularly over the most sensitive part of the injury. However, the intensity can be adjusted to your comfort level. Any soreness following treatment typically resolves within a day or two.

How many sessions will I need?

This depends on your condition and how chronic it is. In most cases, people benefit from 3–6 sessions spaced about a week apart. Your chiropractor will provide personalised recommendations after your initial assessment.

Who is not suitable for shockwave therapy?

Shockwave is not recommended for people with blood clotting disorders, those on anticoagulant medication, during pregnancy, or over areas with active infection, bone tumours, or implanted devices. Your chiropractor will screen for these during your initial assessment.

What makes focused shockwave different from radial shockwave?

Focused shockwave concentrates energy at a precise point deep within tissue, making it particularly effective for treating deeper structures such as hip tendons, calcifications, or heel conditions. In contrast, radial shockwave disperses energy more broadly. While both have their uses, focused shockwave is generally considered the more powerful option for targeted conditions.

Get in touch today by calling (02) 4284 8009 or Book An Appointment Online.