YW Physical Therapy
Focused shockwave therapy in New York City

Shockwave Therapy

Modern pain relief and deep-tissue healing, delivered in Midtown Manhattan near Penn Station.

What is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing in painful muscles, tendons, and joints. In my physical therapy studio in Midtown Manhattan—just minutes from Penn Station—I use both focused and radial shockwave to help people reduce long-standing tightness, tendon pain, and deep tissue irritation that other treatments often miss.

Shockwave helps break up scar tissue, improve circulation, and activate the body’s natural repair process. There are no needles and no medications—just sound waves working with your body. I often combine shockwave with AI-guided movement analysis, TECAR therapy, Class 4 laser, and Compex EMS to address not only where you feel pain, but why those tissues keep getting irritated.

How Shockwave Therapy Works

Radial vs Focused Shockwave

Radial Shockwave (RSWT)

  • Waves spread outward like ripples in water.
  • Best for larger or more superficial areas—like general muscle tension.
  • Great for mild–moderate tendon issues or stubborn muscle knots.
  • Useful for “waking up” tissue before corrective exercise.

Focused Shockwave (FSWT)

  • Energy is focused into a single, deeper point.
  • Reaches tissues other treatments can’t—ideal for chronic or deep pain.
  • Precise targeting allows me to treat the true source of the problem.
  • Supported by strong research for long-term tissue regeneration.
Why I choose focused shockwave:
If your pain is deep, persistent, or hasn’t improved with other care, focused shockwave often creates the breakthrough needed—especially when paired with the right corrective exercises.

Conditions I Treat with Shockwave

Shockwave is particularly effective for stubborn, load-sensitive conditions. I commonly use it for:

I tailor every plan—choosing the right type of shockwave, the right intensity, and the right spacing—based on your history, symptoms, and movement patterns.

Why People Choose Shockwave with Me

Many clinics offer shockwave as a quick add-on. I approach it differently. Each session is one-on-one, and I use shockwave as part of a complete, individualized physical therapy plan—not a standalone tool.

Is Shockwave Right for You?

Shockwave is a strong option if you’ve tried stretching, massage, or basic exercise and still feel like your pain keeps returning—especially in tendon-related areas. I’ll assess your symptoms, movement patterns, and goals, and help you decide whether focused shockwave, radial shockwave, or another technology is the best fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does shockwave therapy hurt?

Most people feel a strong tapping or pressure sensation. It can be intense over sensitive spots, but I always adjust the energy level to your comfort. You stay in control—I can pause or modify at any time.

How many sessions will I need?

Many tendon issues respond within 3–6 sessions, usually spaced one week apart. Frequency depends on how long the problem has been present and how your tissue responds during movement.

Is there downtime afterward?

Most people return to normal activity right away. Mild soreness for 24–48 hours is common and expected. I’ll guide you on what to avoid and how to safely re-load the area.

Is shockwave covered by insurance?

I offer focused shockwave as a self-pay advanced therapy. I’m always transparent about pricing and will explain how it fits into your overall plan.

Do I need a referral to start?

Most people in New York State can see a physical therapist directly under Direct Access. If needed, I can coordinate with your physician.

Not sure if shockwave is right for you? I’ll help you figure out the best plan based on your goals and movement.

Book a Consultation Near Penn Station