ShockWave Therapy for Pain Relief

Support for Chronic Pain, Mobility, and Recovery

Many co-learners seek additional support for chronic pain, limited mobility, and inflammation when conventional options have not provided lasting improvement.

ShockWave Therapy is a non-invasive therapy that uses acoustic wave technology to help reduce pain, improve circulation, decrease inflammation, and support tissue healing.

At Riordan Clinic, ShockWave Therapy is offered as part of a personalized treatment plan for complex chronic conditions, musculoskeletal pain, and inflammatory conditions.

How ShockWave Therapy Works

ShockWave Therapy uses high-energy shockwaves that convert into acoustic waves once they enter the body. These acoustic waves penetrate deep into damaged tissue and stimulate the body’s natural repair response.

This treatment may help:

• Decrease pain
• Improve circulation
• Improve lymphatic flow
• Improve mobility and range of motion
• Restore muscle and tissue balance
• Reduce inflammation
• Reduce reliance on over-the-counter or pharmaceutical pain relievers
• Support the autonomic nervous system balance

The acoustic waves also increase cellular permeability, which may support the body’s own regenerative response and sustained tissue healing.

This technology has been used in Europe for more than 20 years and is FDA-cleared in the United States.

Conditions That May Benefit from ShockWave Therapy

ShockWave Therapy may be considered for:

• Acute and chronic musculoskeletal pain
• Joint pain and arthritis
• Fibromyalgia
• Headaches and migraines
• Pelvic pain
• Repetitive stress injuries, including sports injuries
• Pain or mobility limitations following recent hospitalization

Your Riordan Clinic provider will determine whether this therapy is appropriate based on your health history, symptoms, and overall care plan.

What to Expect

ShockWave Therapy begins with an appointment with a Riordan Clinic provider to determine whether the treatment is appropriate for your specific needs.

Treatment sessions are conducted in the clinic and focus on areas of pain, inflammation, or restricted mobility.

During treatment, your provider or care team will identify the treatment area and adjust the therapy based on your symptoms and feedback. Areas with more inflammation or tissue restriction may feel more sensitive during treatment.

Treatment is intended to be therapeutic while remaining tolerable, with settings adjusted for comfort and clinical response.

Your provider will recommend the number of sessions based on your condition and response to care.

After Treatment

Some co-learners may experience temporary soreness, stiffness, or localized discomfort in treated areas. These responses are expected and typically short-term.

After treatment, your provider may recommend:

• Staying well hydrated
• Supporting recovery with adequate rest
• Prioritizing good sleep
• Maintaining whole-food nutrition

Follow-up recommendations are based on your symptoms, progress, and overall treatment plan.

Safety Considerations

ShockWave Therapy may not be appropriate for every co-learner.

Your provider will review your medical history before recommending treatment.

This therapy may not be recommended for individuals with:

• Acute fracture or dislocation
• Pregnancy
• Spinal cord or nerve root compression
• Spine or joint instability
• Severe osteoporosis
• Certain dental implants, including veneers, crowns, and bridges
• Pacemakers or other implanted electronic devices
• COPD or other chronic lung conditions
• Conditions where treatment would be applied directly over lung fields

Treatment effectiveness varies by individual and by the condition being treated. ShockWave Therapy is used as part of a broader care plan and is not considered a replacement for standard medical care.

Riordan Clinic therapies are individualized based on provider evaluation, symptoms, and treatment goals.

Part of a Broader Care Plan

Chronic pain often affects more than one area of health. Mobility, inflammation, circulation, sleep, and nervous system balance all play a role in recovery.

ShockWave Therapy is used as part of a broader treatment plan focused on improving function, reducing pain, and supporting long-term recovery.

For many co-learners, this may include provider guidance, lab work, nutritional support, and additional therapies based on symptoms, health history, and treatment goals.

Your provider will help determine how ShockWave Therapy may fit into your care plan.