For most patients, shockwave therapy is uncomfortable rather than painful, think deep tapping or pulsing that gets intense over tender spots but stays manageable. The sensation depends on how inflamed the tissue is, where on your body we’re treating, and your personal pain threshold. The good news: it almost always gets easier session by session.
What You’ll Feel During the Session
Dr. Muren uses the StemWave device, which delivers focused acoustic pressure waves through a coupling gel applied directly to your skin. You feel the pulses, not electrical current, penetrating into the tissue. Over a particularly reactive area in those first few seconds, the intensity can feel sharp. Dr. Muren starts at lower energy settings and gradually increases based on your feedback and how the tissue responds. He checks in throughout every session and adjusts pressure as needed, you’re never white-knuckling it alone.
Which areas tend to be more sensitive?
- Plantar fascia heel insertion: usually the most sensitive spot; midportion plantar fasciitis is more manageable
- Elbow tendon insertions: moderately uncomfortable in session one, noticeably less so by sessions two and three
- Lateral hip: generally one of the best-tolerated areas
After Your Session
Some soreness in the treated area for 24-48 hours is completely normal, it’s actually a sign the process is working. One important note: skip the anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen, naproxen, etc.) for at least 48 hours after treatment. Shockwave works by triggering a controlled inflammatory response that drives tissue repair. NSAIDs suppress that response and work against the treatment. Ice is fine. Avoid heavy loading of the treated structure for the rest of the day.
Is It Worth It?
Shockwave is one of the strongest non-surgical tools we have for stubborn tendon and soft-tissue problems, plantar fasciitis, calcific tendinopathy, tennis elbow, chronic hip pain, conditions that haven’t responded to rest, stretching, or conventional therapy. A little discomfort in the clinic beats months of ongoing pain at the Jacksonville beaches or on the course. Most patients say the tradeoff is absolutely worth it.
Questions before you book? Call us at (904) 539-3352 or stop by at 13770 Beach Blvd #4, Jacksonville, FL 32224.