Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)
Radial and Focused Shockwave Therapy
At The Foot Clinic in Cottesloe, we provide state-of-the-art care for musculoskeletal foot and ankle conditions. One of the most effective tools in our clinic is DolorClast® Shockwave Therapy – a modern, safe, non-invasive solution to chronic pain and injury.
We offer both Radial and Focused shockwave therapy using EMS DolorClast® technology. Here’s how they compare — and how we decide what’s best for you.
Shockwave Therapy in podiatry
How Does It Work?
Shockwave works by applying high-energy acoustic soundwaves (shockwaves) that produce secondary cavitation bubbles that burst through damaged and non-healing tissue via the surface of the skin. This essentially disrupts the long-standing nature of the injury, effectively kickstarting the injury to begin healing.
Cavitation and wave formation in radial shockwave
Cavitation and wave formation in focused shockwave
Shockwave Therapy Benefits
What Does It Do?
Targeted tissue regeneration
Immediate and long-standing pain relief
Shockwave Therapy In podiatry
Whats the Difference Between Radial And Focused Shockwave?
Focused Shockwave Therapy
- Produces deep, high-precision pressure waves
- Targets specific tissues at a greater depth — including tendon and bone
- Ideal for deep-seated, chronic, or pinpoint pain
Best for:
- Chronic Achilles tendinopathy
- Heel spur-related or chronic plantar fasciitis
- Sesamoiditis
- Delayed, non-union fractures
- Deep joint or insertional tendon pain
- Deep seated bursitis
- Deep or localised nerve pain
Radial Shockwave Therapy
- Produces broad, low-penetration pressure waves
- Targets surface-level tissue and larger treatment areas
- Stimulates blood flow, breaks down scar tissue, and eases tension in muscle or fascia
Best for:
- Tight calf or leg muscles
- Mild to moderate plantar fasciitis
- Myofascial (muscle) trigger points
- Generalised heel pain
- Post-surgical tissue stiffness
- Osteoarthritis
- Superifical seated bursitis
- Complex regional pain syndrome
- Peripheral neuropathies
- Shin splints
It is a great alternative to surgery for conditions such as severe osteoarthritis in the hip, knee, ankles and feet, chronic plantar heel pain or non-healing fractures. There is little to no complications by using this treatment and has shown great patient outcomes.
Shockwave Therapy effectiveness
How effective is it?
We have the DolorClast® Shockwave, the most effective unit on the market backed by more high-level clinical studies than any other ESWT device available.
The time it takes varies between patients based on their condition, symptoms, and severity. However, majority of conditions are treated within 3-6 weeks at weekly intervals. Typically, the treatment takes 5-15 minutes depending on the area being treated and results can be felt immediately afterwards.
Shockwave therapy Perth
Combination therapy
At The Foot Clinic, we pride ourselves in using cutting-edge technologies and latest evidence-based treatments in Podiatric Medicine to get you back on your feet, fast!
That’s why we suggest using shockwave therapy with our MLS laser treatment that has been backed by rigorous evidence that show greater patient outcomes compared to either alone. You can read more about MLS Laser Therapy here.
Shockwave therapy Perth
Frequently Asked Questions
Is shockwave therapy painful?
Patients will feel mild discomfort during the procedure, but it is generally well-tolerated. Discomfort typically decreases with subsequent sessions.
How many sessions will I need?
Most patients experience significant improvement after 3–6 sessions. Your podiatrist will advise on a treatment plan based on your condition and response. Healing effects may continue for months following the last treatment session.
Do I need a referral for shockwave therapy?
No referral is required. You can book directly with Cottesloe Foot Clinic for an assessment and treatment plan.
Is shockwave therapy covered by health insurance?
Shockwave therapy may be covered under some private health funds. Please check with your provider or ask our clinic for assistance.