ESWT (extracorporeal shockwave therapy) uses acoustic pressure waves to trigger tendon and fascia repair. FDA approved devices treat chronic plantar fasciitis and tennis elbow; most other uses are off label.
A thorough, evidence-based guide to extracorporeal shockwave therapy: how it works, conditions treated (plantar fasciitis, tendinopathy, ED), what sessions are like, costs, and how to find a qualified provider.
GAINSWave therapy is a branded low-intensity shockwave (Li-ESWT) protocol for erectile dysfunction, not a device. A 2017 meta-analysis of 7 randomized trials found larger erectile function gains than sham, mostly in mild to moderate vasculogenic ED.
Cold laser therapy (LLLT, photobiomodulation) uses low-power red and near-infrared light to ease pain and inflammation. The best evidence covers neck pain, knee osteoarthritis, tendinopathy, oral mucositis and pattern hair loss.
Penile shockwave therapy (Li-ESWT) improved erectile function scores versus sham in a 2019 meta-analysis of 7 trials, works best for mild vasculogenic ED, is not FDA cleared for ED, and typically costs $3,000 to $6,000 per course.
At a Glance Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is best supported for calcific tendinitis of the shoulder, with strong evidence from multiple RCTs and systematic reviews. Rotator cuff tendinopathy and frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) also have meaningful evidence, though less definitive than for calcific tendinitis. Focused shockwave penetrates deeper and is preferable for calcifications; radial shockwave…
At a Glance Prolotherapy involves injecting a sugar (dextrose) solution into damaged ligaments and tendons to trigger a controlled healing response. Evidence is strongest for sacroiliac joint pain and chronic low back pain from ligament laxity, with several RCTs showing meaningful improvement. A typical course runs 4 to 6 sessions spaced 3 to 6 weeks…
At a Glance Shockwave therapy has Level 1 evidence (multiple randomized controlled trials) for plantar fasciitis, one of its strongest indications. Success rates for chronic plantar fasciitis range from 65 to 80 percent across published studies. Most protocols involve 3 to 5 sessions spaced one week apart, with improvement continuing for 8 to 12 weeks…
Shockwave therapy (ESWT) sends acoustic pressure waves into chronic tendon, fascia and bone injuries to reduce pain and restart healing. It is used mainly for plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow and calcific shoulder tendinitis, with mixed to strong evidence depending on the condition.
A complete guide to low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and photobiomodulation — how it works, conditions treated, evidence levels, costs, and how to find a provider.
