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Living with chronic hip pain can be incredibly frustrating. Everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs, or even sleeping become challenges when every movement hurts. Many people feel trapped in a cycle of rest, painkillers, and therapies that don’t provide lasting relief. This is where shockwave therapy is starting to shine as a new hope. Shockwave therapy is a non-surgical treatment that uses targeted sound waves to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. Patients with persistent hip pain are increasingly turning to this technology after standard treatments haven’t solved the problem. In this article, we’ll explore why shockwave therapy is becoming a go-to option for stubborn Hip Pain that just won’t go away, and what the evidence says about its benefits. (Results may vary; always consult a healthcare provider before starting new treatments.)
What is “persistent” hip pain? Generally, pain that lasts longer than three months despite treatment is considered chronic or persistent. Hip pain can stem from many sources. In some cases it’s due to osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear damage in the hip joint cartilage), while in others it might be trochanteric bursitis or gluteal tendinopathy (inflammation or degeneration of the tendons on the side of the hip, often called greater trochanteric pain syndrome). Muscle strains, labral tears in the hip, or even referred pain from the lower back or pelvis can also cause hip pain. Often, chronic hip pain isn’t from one big injury but rather develops gradually from years of poor movement patterns or muscle imbalances. As Unpain Clinic’s founder Uran Berisha explains, most people assume hip pain is just an “unavoidable” part of aging, but the reality is that hip dysfunction usually builds up over years due to things like weak glutes, tight hip flexors, or old injuries that altered how you move. In other words, the hip pain is often a symptom of a bigger issue in how the body is functioning.
Why does hip pain sometimes persist for months or years? If the underlying cause isn’t addressed, the pain tends to come back again and again. For example, say you have pain on the outer side of your hip from an inflamed bursa (fluid sac). Rest and anti-inflammatories might calm it down temporarily, but if the real problem is that your hip stabilizer muscles aren’t working correctly, the irritation returns as soon as you resume normal activities. Chronic hip pain often involves a cycle of inflammation and healing that never fully completes. Scar tissue can form in the muscles or tendons around the hip, limiting blood flow and preventing full recovery. Additionally, many people try to “work through” the pain or ignore it in early stages, which can lead to more damage over time.
Let’s not forget lifestyle factors: a sedentary lifestyle (lots of sitting) can contribute to persistent hip pain. Prolonged sitting weakens the gluteal muscles and tightens the hip flexors. This imbalance puts abnormal stress on the hip joint whenever you stand or walk, potentially causing pain that lingers. Conversely, athletes or runners might experience long-term hip pain from overuse injuries or improper training techniques. In summary, hip pain can persist when the root cause — be it biomechanical, inflammatory, or degenerative — hasn’t been corrected.
If you’ve had hip pain for a while, you’ve probably tried the usual advice. Common treatments for hip pain include rest, ice/heat therapy, stretching, strengthening exercises, anti-inflammatory medications (like NSAIDs), corticosteroid injections, and physiotherapy. In acute cases, these can help. But with persistent hip pain, patients often find these measures only provide temporary relief. For instance, anti-inflammatory medications or cortisone shots might dull the pain for a few weeks, but the relief is often short-lived if the painful structure keeps getting irritated. In fact, research in osteoarthritis has shown that while standard treatments are widely used, the majority of patients “do not fully recover from their pain” with those measures. It can be disheartening to rest for weeks or do all your prescribed exercises diligently, yet still feel that deep ache in your hip.
Why do traditional treatments sometimes fail for chronic hip pain? A big reason is that they often focus on the symptoms rather than the cause. Taking painkillers or getting a steroid injection can reduce inflammation and pain, but these don’t strengthen a weak glute muscle or break up old scar tissue from that surgery you had years ago. Even surgery might not be a complete solution in some cases. Total hip replacement can address severe joint damage (like end-stage arthritis), but if the muscle imbalances or movement dysfunctions that led to that damage aren’t addressed, patients might continue to move incorrectly and put strain on other areas. As Uran Berisha notes, a hip replacement “doesn’t fix the mechanical dysfunction that caused the problem in the first place,” which means your other hip or your knees or back could start having issues if the root cause isn’t fixed.
Physical therapy and exercise programs are extremely important, but they need to target the right issues. Often people stretch the iliotibial (IT) band on the outside of the thigh thinking it will help hip pain, when in reality the IT band tightness is a symptom and the real issue is weak or inactive gluteal muscles. If therapy doesn’t identify these hidden dysfunctions, patients may end up “reinforcing bad movement patterns” despite their exercises. The bottom line is that persistent hip pain requires a deeper look at why the pain is there. This is exactly the gap that shockwave therapy aims to fill – by physically addressing tissue quality and healing at a cellular level, rather than just masking pain.
Shockwave therapy, known medically as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), is a treatment that delivers focused acoustic waves into injured tissues. Originally used to break up kidney stones, shockwaves have been found to trigger biological effects that aid tissue repair and pain reduction. But is there evidence that it works for hip pain conditions? The answer is yes – emerging evidence suggests shockwave therapy can help in certain hip-related conditions, though research is still growing compared to more studied areas like the knee or elbow.
Hip Osteoarthritis: One exciting study looked at people with hip osteoarthritis (a degenerative joint disease causing chronic hip pain). In this 2023 randomized controlled trial, 148 patients with hip arthritis were divided into three groups: one received focused shockwave therapy, one received radial (unfocused) shockwave therapy, and one received a sham treatment. After 4 weeks of weekly treatments (and evaluations at 4 and 8 weeks), both shockwave groups showed significantly reduced pain scores and improved joint function compared to the sham group. Notably, the focused shockwave (which penetrates deeper) outperformed radial shockwave in reducing pain and stiffness. By 8 weeks, patients who had shockwave reported better hip mobility and less pain on the WOMAC scale (a standard osteoarthritis questionnaire) than those who got the placebo. This was a short-term study, but it’s important because, as the authors pointed out, no study prior had examined ESWT in human hip osteoarthritis – and the results indicate real potential for pain relief and functional improvement. In simpler terms, shockwave therapy helped these arthritic hip patients walk with less pain, at least in the couple of months following treatment, without any surgery. (The focused form of ESWT seemed especially effective.)
Lateral Hip Pain (Trochanteric Bursitis/Gluteal Tendinopathy): One of the most common causes of chronic hip pain, especially in women 40-60, is greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS) – essentially tendon degeneration or bursitis at the outer hip. Shockwave therapy has been researched quite extensively for this condition. A 2023 clinical trial in Italy compared shockwave therapy to a program of eccentric exercise in people with chronic GTPS. Both treatments helped reduce pain and improve function over 2-3 months, and interestingly, even patients who didn’t respond to exercise alone improved after they crossed over and received shockwave therapy. The researchers found that shockwave therapy led to a more pronounced functional recovery – patients who got shockwave regained strength and hip function faster, as measured by a leg function score, compared to those doing exercise alone. In previous studies, shockwave also showed long-term benefits: for example, in a head-to-head comparison, shockwave therapy had superior results at 4 months and 1 year for chronic trochanteric bursitis compared to corticosteroid injections. (Steroid shots often gave quicker relief in the first month, but the shockwave-treated patients were doing better in the longer run.) Because of outcomes like these, experts now consider shockwave one of the recommended conservative treatments for stubborn GTPS.
How does shockwave therapy work (in plain English)? The idea of “sound waves” helping a painful hip might sound odd, but it’s rooted in our biology. Shockwaves create micro-trauma – tiny safe disturbances – in tissue, which jump-starts the body’s healing response. Think of it like poking the area to remind your body to send blood, nutrients, and reparative cells there. This therapy can break up adhesions and calcifications (like scar tissue or calcium deposits) that are preventing healing. It also stimulates the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), increasing blood flow to chronically undernourished tissues. More blood flow means more oxygen and nutrients to help repair tendon fibers, muscle, or bone. Shockwave energy has been shown to trigger the release of growth factors and proteins that lead to tissue regeneration and collagen production. In addition, shockwaves have a pain-relieving effect: they can diminish nerve fiber sensitivity and promote an anti-inflammatory environment in the treated area. Uran Berisha from Unpain Clinic explains that shockwave “stimulates real healing by breaking down scar tissue, increasing blood flow, and triggering collagen production” in the damaged joint. Essentially, it’s a way to help reset a chronically irritated hip by prompting fresh repair where the body has struggled on its own.
What results can you expect? It’s important to have realistic expectations with any therapy, and shockwave is no different. Shockwave therapy is not a magic instant cure – it usually works cumulatively over several sessions. Research and clinical experience suggest that most patients need a series of treatments (commonly 3 to 6 sessions), typically spaced about a week apart, to get significant improvement. At Unpain Clinic, for example, they have found that most people notice some positive change after the first two sessions, and achieve acceptable relief after about 3–5 sessions. Each session might last around 15-20 minutes of actual shockwave application, often combined with other modalities or exercises as needed. Many patients report that their pain eases gradually over the course of treatment – for instance, maybe after two sessions you can sleep through the night again, and after five sessions you’re able to walk longer or return to light exercise without a flare-up.
It’s also worth noting that response can vary based on individual factors. If you’ve had hip pain for 10 years and have significant arthritis or multiple areas of degeneration, you may need more sessions or maintenance treatments. Older patients or those with other health issues (like diabetes or poor circulation) might heal more slowly. On the flip side, someone with a more recent tendon injury might respond faster. Shockwave therapy for hip pain is not a one-size-fits-all, but the evidence indicates that it can provide meaningful relief when other approaches have failed, by inducing changes that typical therapies cannot. Moreover, unlike medications or injections, shockwave therapy’s effects tend to be long-lasting because it aims to actually improve tissue quality (though occasional “booster” sessions months down the line aren’t uncommon if pain creeps back).
Importantly, shockwave is safe and non-invasive. The most common side effects are mild and short-term – you might have some soreness, redness, or bruising at the treated area for a day or two afterwards. But there’s no incision, no anesthesia, and no significant downtime required. A review of the safety profile shows minimal negative side effects in most patients. That said, there are a few contraindications (situations where you shouldn’t do shockwave, discussed in the FAQ below). Always ensure you’re evaluated by a qualified professional to see if shockwave is appropriate for your specific case.
In summary, the research (while ongoing) is encouraging: shockwave therapy has shown positive outcomes in chronic hip pain conditions like GTPS and early osteoarthritis. It works by promoting real healing – improving blood flow, reducing inflammation, and strengthening tissue – rather than just numbing the pain. And it does so with a good safety profile and without drugs or surgery. It’s no surprise that more clinics and patients are exploring shockwave as a go-to option for persistent hip pain that isn’t responding to conventional care.
At Unpain Clinic, shockwave therapy is one of the primary tools for treating stubborn hip pain. What sets their approach apart is the emphasis on finding the “why” behind the pain, not just the “where.” When you come in with hip pain, the practitioner (physiotherapist or chiropractor) will perform a thorough assessment that looks at your entire body, not just your hip. As Uran Berisha often says, they don’t just ask “Where does it hurt?” – they also ask “Why does it hurt?” This means examining your lower back, pelvis alignment, gait, muscle strength, flexibility, old scars, and even other past injuries. The hip is a complex, weight-bearing joint that can be affected by issues in adjacent areas. For example, an ankle sprain years ago might have caused you to move differently, loading one hip more than the other. Or a C-section scar on your lower abdomen could lead to subtle imbalances in core muscle activation, which in turn affect your hip mechanics. Unpain Clinic’s team is trained to identify these hidden contributors.
A personalized treatment plan: Once the root causes are identified, a treatment gameplan is created. If you’re a candidate for shockwave therapy, they will primarily use focused shockwave (a type of shockwave that can penetrate deeply into the hip region) on the affected tissues. For instance, if you have tight bands or trigger points in the gluteal muscles, the therapist will apply the shockwave handpiece to those spots to break up fibrous adhesions. If imaging or palpation suggests you have calcific tendinitis (calcium deposits) or scar tissue around the hip, they’ll target those areas as well. The treatment intensity is adjustable, so they will start at a tolerable level and can increase the energy as you get used to the sensation. Most people describe shockwave as uncomfortable but not truly painful – it feels like a series of rapid taps or pulses. The therapist will check in frequently and can pause if you need a break. The goal is to deliver a sufficient dose of energy to induce a healing response without causing excessive pain during the session.
A typical shockwave session for hip pain at Unpain Clinic might include: firstly, a quick re-check of your pain status and movement that day. Then, application of coupling gel on the skin (this helps transmit the shockwaves). The provider will then press the shockwave applicator against specific points on and around your hip, delivering usually a few thousand pulses at each point. They often treat not just the painful spot but also the surrounding musculature and any related structures (for example, treating the lower back or thigh muscles if those are contributing). The session might last around 15 minutes of shockwave application, and afterwards the area may feel a bit tingly or warm due to increased blood flow. Some light stretching or guided movement might be done post-treatment to integrate the improvements.
Frequency and duration: Sessions are usually scheduled once per week or once every two weeks, depending on the case severity and patient schedule. Unpain Clinic has found that spacing treatments about a week apart allows time for the body to react and begin the healing process triggered by the shockwave. They typically recommend a package of around 3 sessions to start – after which progress is evaluated. Many patients with persistent hip pain require about 4-6 sessions for significant relief, though this can vary. Because Unpain Clinic practitioners are also skilled physiotherapists and chiropractors, they may incorporate other therapies alongside shockwave. However, shockwave therapy remains the centerpiece of the treatment for chronic hip pain at the clinic, given its powerful effect on tissue healing. Other modalities, like manual therapy or specific exercises, are used in a supportive role. For example, once shockwave has reduced pain and broken down adhesions, they might introduce targeted exercises to strengthen your gluteus medius and core, so that your hip joint stays stable and the pain doesn’t return. As highlighted in an Unpain Clinic podcast, a comprehensive plan might include “breaking down scar tissue & restoring mobility” (with shockwave), then “retraining the right muscles” (with customized exercises), and always focusing on fixing the root cause, not just the symptoms.
Combining shockwave with whole-body healing: One unique aspect at Unpain is their whole-body perspective. They often treat areas you wouldn’t expect for hip pain. For instance, they might use shockwave therapy on an old surgical scar on your abdomen or a tight band of fascia in your thigh if they suspect it’s impacting your hip movement. By addressing these distant but connected issues, they “reset” your body’s movement patterns. Many clients are surprised to find that working on these seemingly unrelated areas provides relief to the hip. In Uran’s words, the key to long-term relief is often “releasing old scar tissue that’s disrupting movement patterns”, then restoring normal muscle activation and joint function.
Unpain Clinic also leverages shockwave therapy for patients around the time of hip surgeries. In a podcast episode titled “From prehab to rehab: the ‘hip’ new way patients are crushing their joint replacement surgeries” (Episode #5, Aug 6, 2021), Uran Berisha describes how they use shockwave before and after hip replacement surgery as a way to improve outcomes. By treating the muscles and tissues in advance (“prehab”), patients often go into surgery stronger and come out with less compensatory pain elsewhere. After surgery, once cleared by the surgeon, shockwave can be applied to help break down post-operative scar tissue and revive muscle strength more quickly. In fact, shockwave therapy has shown anecdotal success in accelerating muscle recovery post-hip replacement. (For example, some patients just 6 weeks out of a hip replacement have demonstrated remarkable improvements in muscle strength and walking ability when shockwave was added to their rehab process.) The philosophy is that whether you’re trying to avoid surgery or recover from one, shockwave can play a key role in rehabilitating the hip by boosting the body’s healing power. As a testament, shockwave therapy at Unpain Clinic has helped countless individuals reverse years of hip dysfunction by treating the real cause of pain rather than simply masking it.
Overall, Unpain Clinic’s approach with shockwave therapy is empathetic, holistic, and evidence-informed. During your shockwave treatment program, the team continuously assesses your progress. They adjust the plan if needed, and they educate you on what’s happening every step of the way. Patients often comment on feeling heard and having things explained in easy terms – for instance, understanding that “it’s not just my hip that’s the problem, it’s how my body was compensating.” By combining cutting-edge technology (like shockwave) with personalized care, the clinic aims to not only relieve your hip pain but also prevent it from coming back.
(Results may vary from person to person. The treatment plan is personalized to each patient’s condition. Always follow the advice of your therapist and report any concerns during your care.)
To illustrate how shockwave therapy can make a difference, let’s look at a real-life example of a patient. Jane is a 45-year-old avid runner who began experiencing pain along the outside of her right hip and knee about five years ago. She was diagnosed with IT band syndrome and trochanteric bursitis – essentially an inflammation where a band of tissue rubs over the hip bone. She tried everything: rest, anti-inflammatory meds, physiotherapy exercises, foam rolling, massage therapy, acupuncture, cortisone injections… you name it. Some treatments gave short-term relief, but the hip pain always flared up once she tried to run longer distances again. Over the years, Jane grew frustrated and started to lose hope that she’d ever run pain-free. Running was her passion and stress-reliever, so this was devastating. By the time she visited Unpain Clinic, she couldn’t run more than 30-40 minutes without sharp pain, and had even started feeling it during daily activities like climbing stairs.
In her initial assessment at Unpain Clinic, the therapist found that Jane’s right gluteus medius muscle was very weak and there was significant scar tissue near an old strain injury in that hip. This was causing her IT band to work overtime (hence the chronic irritation). The therapist recommended a plan centered on shockwave therapy to address the scar tissue and tendon health in her hip, combined with some targeted strengthening exercises for her glutes. Jane was a bit skeptical – she had never heard of shockwave therapy before. But as she later said, “I decided to try it – what did I have to lose?”
She began shockwave treatments once a week. After the first session, Jane noticed later that week that she could run for a slightly longer time before the pain kicked in – a small but meaningful improvement. The shockwave itself was somewhat uncomfortable on her tender hip area, but tolerable (and the therapist adjusted settings to keep it within her limits). By the third session, Jane experienced a breakthrough: she completed a 5 km run with minimal hip pain, something she hadn’t done in months. She exclaimed to the team that it was “the longest I’ve run pain-free in ages!” In fact, after three shockwave treatments, Jane was back to training for her half-marathon and feeling stronger than ever. Not only was the sharp lateral hip pain gone, but her whole right leg felt more stable and powerful when running.
Jane’s story mirrors that of many patients who come to Unpain Clinic as a “last resort.” Initially, she couldn’t believe that something so simple – sound waves pulsing into her hip – could succeed where rest and injections had failed. But the results spoke for themselves. By breaking up the dysfunctional scar tissue and stimulating new healing in her gluteal tendon, shockwave therapy gave Jane’s body the push it needed to finally mend properly. Her consistent exercises alongside treatments helped reinforce the new, healthier movement pattern (strong glutes taking the load, instead of the IT band). After about six sessions, Jane was essentially pain-free and even improved her personal best time in a subsequent half-marathon.
It’s important to note that this is one patient’s experience – individual results vary. Not everyone will have such a dramatic turnaround, and it wasn’t “overnight” (it took several weeks and active participation in rehab). However, this example highlights how shockwave therapy can be a game-changer, even for issues that have been lingering for years. Many patients report similar outcomes: shockwave was the missing piece that finally allowed their chronic hip (or knee, or shoulder) pain to heal after they had “tried everything else.” As one Unpain Clinic client put it: “I was skeptical at first, but now I believe in shockwave therapy – it saved me after nothing else worked”. These success stories, backed by growing scientific evidence, are why shockwave therapy is gaining a reputation as the go-to solution for persistent musculoskeletal pain.
While professional treatments like shockwave therapy can accelerate healing, there’s also a lot you can do at home to support your recovery and prevent flare-ups. Here are some general at-home tips for managing persistent hip pain safely (to complement, not replace, your in-clinic care):
Stay active, but modify aggravating activities: Total rest can lead to stiffening and weakness, which might worsen hip pain in the long run. It’s better to do gentle movement and low-impact activities to keep blood flowing. For example, if running causes hip pain, try cycling or swimming for cardio in the meantime. Avoid high-impact or repetitive motions that clearly trigger your hip pain, but continue with pain-free exercises. Light daily walking within your tolerance is usually beneficial for joint health.
Stretch and mobilize (within comfort): Gentle stretching of the hip muscles can relieve tension. Focus on areas like the hip flexors (front of the hip), quads, hamstrings, and glutes. A common stretch is the kneeling hip flexor stretch (to open the front of the hip) or a figure-4 stretch (to loosen the glutes/piriformis). Never stretch into sharp pain – you should feel a mild pull, not pain. In addition to stretching, consider using a foam roller or a massage ball on the thigh and gluteal muscles to release tight spots (unless advised otherwise by your therapist). Maintaining flexibility around the hip can improve your range of motion and reduce painful friction in the joint.
Strengthen your support muscles: Often with chronic hip pain, certain muscles are weak or not activating properly. Two big ones are the gluteus medius (side of your buttocks) and the core muscles. Incorporating basic strengthening exercises for these can be very helpful. Examples: clamshells or side-lying leg lifts to target the glutes, bridging exercises for the glutes and hamstrings, and planks or deadbug exercises for the core. Start gently and focus on form – it’s not about heavy weight, but about re-engaging the right muscles. If unsure, ask your physiotherapist for suitable exercises. Strengthening these areas will offload stress from the hip joint itself.
Heat therapy for stiffness, ice for acute flares: If your hip feels stiff and achy (especially in cases of arthritis or long-term tendon issues), applying a heating pad or warm towel to the area for 15-20 minutes can loosen the muscles and improve circulation. This is great before doing your stretches or exercises. On the other hand, if you experience a sudden increase in pain or noticeable inflammation after activity, icing the hip for 10-15 minutes can reduce inflammation. Some people alternate heat and ice. Listen to your body – use what makes your hip feel better.
Mind your posture and movement patterns: Pay attention to how you sit, stand, and walk during the day. Simple changes like avoiding sitting with crossed legs (which can compress structures in the hip) or ensuring an ergonomic workspace can prevent additional strain. When lifting objects, use your legs and keep your back straight to avoid twisting your hips awkwardly. If you have a habit of standing more on one leg, try to distribute your weight evenly. Good posture and body mechanics will complement the healing process by reducing undue stress on the hip.
When to seek further help: If you experience severe symptoms such as sudden inability to bear weight on your leg, intense pain that radiates down the leg, or signs of infection (redness, warmth, fever) in the hip region, you should seek medical attention promptly. These could indicate something more urgent (like a fracture or infection) that needs immediate care. Also, if your hip pain is ever accompanied by chest pain or shortness of breath (rare, but in case of a blood clot concern), treat it as an emergency. For the typical chronic hip pain, keep your healthcare provider informed if there’s any change in symptoms or if certain activities consistently cause sharp pain – they can advise if you need to modify your plan.
Lastly, be patient and consistent. Healing chronic hip pain takes time. It’s tempting to overdo it on “good days,” but try to stick with gradual progress. Celebrate small improvements – maybe this week you walked 5 minutes longer than last week before the pain set in. All these little steps add up. By combining clinical treatments like shockwave therapy with smart self-care at home, you give yourself the best shot at finally overcoming that persistent hip pain.
(Disclaimer: The above advice is general and educational. Every individual’s condition is unique, so please consult your therapist or doctor for personalized guidance. At-home tips should complement professional treatment, not substitute for it.)
Yes, shockwave therapy is generally considered safe for most people with hip pain. It is a non-invasive treatment – no incisions or drugs are involved. The most common side effects are minor and temporary, such as mild pain during treatment, redness, or bruising on the skin over the treatment area. These usually resolve within a day or two. In fact, shockwave has a good safety profile with limited evidence of negative side effects. Importantly, the energy levels used for musculoskeletal therapy are controlled to avoid causing damage; they are strong enough to stimulate healing but not so strong as to harm healthy tissue. That said, like any medical treatment, it should be applied by a qualified professional who can determine if it’s appropriate for you. There are certain situations where shockwave therapy should be used with caution or avoided (see the question on contraindications below). As long as a proper screening is done (to rule out any contraindications), shockwave therapy is a safe option for treating chronic hip pain. It has been used in Europe for decades and is FDA-approved for certain conditions. Patients often report the treatment sensation is uncomfortable but tolerable, and they are able to walk out of the clinic immediately afterwards with no recovery downtime. Always ensure you’re getting the therapy from a certified practitioner with experience in shockwave for the best and safest results.
The number of sessions needed can vary, but typically a course of shockwave therapy for persistent hip pain ranges from 3 to 6 sessions. Many clinics, including Unpain Clinic, find that patients start to notice improvement after about 2 sessions, and significant pain reduction and functional gains often occur by 3-5 sessions. Each session is usually scheduled about a week apart to allow your body to process the treatment. For example, if you have chronic gluteal tendinopathy, your provider might recommend one session per week for 5 weeks and then reevaluate. If progress is on track, sometimes that’s enough. In more severe or longstanding cases, you might need a few additional sessions. It’s also possible that a booster session months later could be beneficial to maintain results, especially for degenerative conditions like arthritis. Keep in mind that individual responses vary – some people respond very quickly and need fewer treatments, while others with complex issues might need a longer series. The therapist will tailor the plan to your situation, monitoring your pain and mobility changes as you go. The good news is that because shockwave’s effects are cumulative, you’re not expected to be “fixed” after one session (so don’t be discouraged if the first treatment doesn’t yield a huge change). Patience and adherence to the plan (along with any exercises given) will optimize your outcomes. Always communicate with your provider about how you’re feeling; they can adjust the number of sessions or combine other therapies as needed.
This is a common concern. During the treatment, you will feel something, but most people would describe it more as discomfort than severe pain. Shockwave therapy involves sending pressure waves through a probe into your tissues – it feels like rapid tapping or snapping sensations on the skin. The intensity of these pulses can be adjusted. At first, it might start at a lower intensity; you’ll feel a series of thumping pulses that can be a bit uncomfortable, especially on very tender areas. Many patients say it’s a “weird” sensation but bearable. As the area numbs slightly and you get used to it, the therapist may increase the intensity to a therapeutic level. You remain in control – if it’s too intense, you can ask for a short break or a reduction in intensity. After the session, the treated area might feel a little sore or achy (similar to how you’d feel after a deep tissue massage). This post-treatment soreness usually fades within 24-48 hours. There might also be mild redness or swelling. These reactions are actually signs that your body’s healing processes are kicking in (increased blood flow, etc.). Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used after treatment if needed, though many people don’t find it necessary. To sum up: shockwave therapy isn’t a relaxing massage – it’s normal to feel some pain during the procedure, but it’s typically tolerable and short-lived. The intensity can always be tailored to your comfort to some extent. Any temporary discomfort has to be weighed against the potential long-term relief from chronic hip pain. Most patients, even those who find it a bit painful during treatment, say it’s absolutely worth it for the results.
Yes, one of the remarkable things about shockwave therapy is that it can stimulate healing even in old, chronic injuries or pain conditions. In fact, it’s designed to treat chronic conditions – many clinical studies focus on patients who’ve had pain for 6 months, a year, or even longer. Chronic hip pain often involves issues like longstanding tendon degeneration, scar tissue, or poor blood supply to an area – exactly the problems shockwave excels at addressing. By promoting new blood vessel growth and tissue regeneration, shockwave can “reawaken” a stalled healing process. Patients who’ve suffered for years sometimes see improvements they didn’t think were possible. For example, shockwave has helped people with decade-old hip bursitis finally find relief, or improved range of motion in an arthritic hip that had been stiff for years. At Unpain Clinic, many clients with multi-year pain histories report significant relief after a course of shockwave therapy (often after trying many other treatments without success). However, it’s important to set realistic expectations. Long-term damage might not be completely reversible – if you have severe osteoarthritis, shockwave won’t rebuild your cartilage to that of a teenager. What it can do is reduce your pain, improve your mobility, and potentially delay or avoid more invasive interventions like surgery. Think of it as giving your hip a second chance to heal. The sooner you address chronic pain with regenerative therapies like shockwave, the better the potential outcome, but even if you’ve “had hip pain forever,” it’s worth discussing shockwave therapy as an option. Always consult with a provider to see if your specific condition (and its duration) make you a good candidate.
While shockwave therapy is safe for most people, there are certain contraindications and precautions. You should generally avoid shockwave therapy (or delay it) if any of the following apply to you:
Pregnancy: If you are pregnant, shockwave therapy is typically not recommended over the abdominal/lumbar region or hip. (Treating a foot or shoulder in pregnancy might be considered in some cases, but because so many changes occur in the body during pregnancy, many providers prefer to wait until after delivery to treat non-urgent issues.)
Blood Clotting Disorders: If you have a clotting disorder such as hemophilia, or if you have a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or blood clots in the treatment area, shockwave is contraindicated. Also, if you are on high-dose anticoagulant (blood thinner) therapy, there is a risk of bleeding or bruising.
Recent Cortisone Injection: If you’ve had a steroid/cortisone injection in that hip or surrounding area within the last 4-6 weeks, it’s advised to wait. Shockwave can increase blood flow and might disrupt how a recent injection is meant to work, and tissues injected with steroids can be more fragile temporarily.
Local Tumor or Cancer in the area: If there’s a tumor at the treatment site, shockwave should not be applied over it. Having a history of cancer doesn’t automatically rule you out – for example, a past cancer unrelated to the hip isn’t necessarily a contraindication – but active cancer in the hip region would be.
Acute infection or open wound in the area: Shockwave shouldn’t be done over an active infection (like an infected hip joint or skin infection) or on open wounds, unless it’s a specialized setting treating chronic wounds (which is a different protocol). The area needs to be clean and stable.
Children (growth plates): Shockwave is usually not used over growth plates in children or adolescents, as a precaution, since it could potentially affect bone growth. Pediatric cases are generally not treated with standard shockwave without specialist oversight.
Nerve or circulatory conditions: Caution if you have severe peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage causing loss of sensation) in the area – if you can’t give feedback on pain due to numbness, it’s harder to safely dose the treatment. Also, if you have severe arterial disease in the legs, that might be a reason to avoid it or use lower settings.
Your therapist will do a screening to ensure none of these contraindications are present. If you have metal implants (like a hip replacement or pins/screws), shockwave can usually still be done – the practitioner just avoids direct application on the metal. Having a hip replacement is not a contraindication; in fact, shockwave can be used safely around it to help muscles post-surgery (with your surgeon’s clearance). Ultimately, the provider will use their clinical judgment. If shockwave therapy isn’t appropriate for you, they will suggest alternative treatments. Always be open about your medical history – mention any major conditions, medications, or concerns during your initial assessment so the team can determine if shockwave is safe for your specific situation.
Insurance coverage for shockwave therapy can vary widely depending on where you live and what kind of health plan you have. In many cases, shockwave therapy is not directly covered as a separate item by basic health insurance, especially public healthcare plans. However, at clinics like Unpain Clinic, shockwave is often provided by licensed physiotherapists or chiropractors. This means the treatment might be billed under a normal physiotherapy or chiropractic visit. If you have extended health benefits (private insurance) that cover physiotherapy or chiro, those plans will usually cover the appointment itself (subject to your plan’s limits), regardless of the modalities used during the session. In other words, you may pay for a standard physio session which is then reimbursable, and shockwave is the technique they used during that session. It’s always best to check with both the clinic and your insurance provider. Ask the clinic how they bill for shockwave – do they charge an extra fee per treatment, or is it included in the visit cost? Some clinics do charge an additional fee because not all insurers recognize shockwave. When speaking to your insurance, you might inquire if “physical therapy modalities” or specifically “extracorporeal shockwave therapy” are covered. As of now, shockwave therapy is still considered a somewhat advanced treatment, and coverage is not universal. In Canada, for example, provincial health care doesn’t cover it, but many private plans do under physio. In the US, Medicare doesn’t cover it for musculoskeletal use, but some private insurers might under certain conditions. If insurance is a concern, discuss it upfront. Unpain Clinic may also offer package pricing or payment plans for shockwave treatment series if needed. And remember, investing in a therapy that could potentially save you from surgery or long-term medication can be very worthwhile – many patients feel it’s money well spent when they get their quality of life back.
Shockwave therapy’s side effects are generally mild, especially when compared to medications or surgery. The most commonly reported side effects include:
Localized soreness or pain after the treatment – the area that was treated might ache for a short period. This is usually the body’s normal response to the therapy and often diminishes within 24-48 hours.
Redness or superficial bruising on the skin – due to the mechanical action of the shockwaves and increased blood flow, you might see some redness, and occasionally small capillaries can bruise. Any bruising is typically minor and resolves on its own.
Swelling – a bit of swelling can occur as part of the inflammatory response (which is actually how healing is stimulated). This is usually not severe and goes down in a day or two.
Numbness or tingling – rarely, patients report a short-term tingling or slight numb feeling in the area. Shockwaves can temporarily affect nerve endings (sometimes intentionally to reduce pain), but this feeling should be transient and normal sensation returns shortly.
Fatigue – not a direct side effect of shockwaves themselves, but some people feel a bit tired after a session, likely because of the body’s response kicking in (similar to how one might feel after a strong massage or a workout).
Serious side effects are very rare. There is no radiation or anything like that involved, so we don’t see systemic effects. Infection is not a risk since nothing is invasive (just make sure the gel and equipment are clean, which reputable clinics ensure). One thing to mention: if one were to overdo shockwave or use it improperly, there’s a theoretical risk of tissue damage – but in the hands of trained professionals following proper guidelines, this isn’t an issue. They use the correct energy levels and focus for therapeutic benefit. Overall, shockwave therapy is considered a low-risk treatment. A scientific review noted that aside from temporary pain during or after treatment, no significant adverse events were reported. If you experience anything beyond the mild effects described (for example, pain that is worsening days after, or any signs of infection), you should contact your provider – though such reactions are highly uncommon with shockwave. Most patients find the side effects quite manageable, especially in comparison to the chronic pain they’ve been enduring. Your therapist will also give you post-care instructions, like whether to ice the area or avoid strenuous activity for a day, to minimize any discomfort.
Persistent hip pain can feel like a life sentence – it saps your mobility, independence, and joy. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Understanding that hip pain is often a symptom of underlying dysfunction is the first step. Whether it’s due to years of wear-and-tear, old injuries, or muscular imbalances, addressing the root causes is key to lasting relief. Shockwave therapy is rapidly emerging as a go-to non-surgical option for tackling those root issues in chronic hip pain. Unlike treatments that simply mask pain, shockwave therapy aims to stimulate real healing in the hip: it boosts blood flow, breaks down scar tissue, reduces inflammation, and even promotes new tissue growth. We’ve seen that research backs up its benefits in conditions like lateral hip tendinopathy and early hip arthritis – improving pain and function where conventional therapies often fall short.
For individuals who have been frustrated by months or years of hip pain, shockwave therapy offers a chance at turning the page. It’s especially worth considering if you’ve tried the usual routes (medication, injections, standard physio) without success, or if you’re looking to avoid surgery. That said, shockwave therapy is not a magic bullet or an overnight cure – it’s typically a series of treatments and often works best as part of a comprehensive plan (including exercise and movement retraining). Results also vary from person to person. Some patients experience dramatic relief, while others improve more gradually. A qualified healthcare provider can assess if you’re a good candidate and give you an idea of the outlook.
At Unpain Clinic, shockwave therapy has become a cornerstone of treating stubborn hip pain because time and again, it has helped patients get back to living their lives. People who hobbled in, are walking out with improved strength and a smile. By focusing on “why it hurts” and using advanced shockwave technology to heal the tissues, they strive to provide long-term fixes rather than band-aid solutions. If you’re dealing with persistent hip pain – the kind that hasn’t responded to the usual care – shockwave therapy may be the option that finally provides relief. It’s non-invasive, backed by scientific evidence, and supported by success stories of patients who regained mobility and freedom from pain.
Remember, no treatment is one-size-fits-all. The journey to being pain-free is often about finding the right combination of therapies and putting in the work (rehab exercises, lifestyle changes, etc.). Shockwave therapy is one powerful tool now at our disposal. When administered by experts in a tailored program, it can help heal chronic hip pain and give you a shot at avoiding more drastic measures. If your hip pain has been running the show in your life, it may be time to consider shockwave therapy as your next step towards reclaiming a pain-free, active lifestyle.
And when you’re ready to address not just where it hurts, but why it hurts, the team at Unpain Clinic is ready to guide you. You don’t have to live with hip pain forever – there are innovative options on the horizon and shockwave therapy is leading the charge in cutting down persistent pain.
(Results may vary; always consult a healthcare provider to see if shockwave therapy is suitable for your specific condition.)
Book Your Initial Assessment NowAt Unpain Clinic, we don’t just ask “Where does it hurt?” — we uncover “Why does it hurt?”
If you’ve been frustrated by the cycle of “try everything, feel nothing,” this assessment is for you. We take a whole-body approach so you leave with clarity, not more questions.
✅ What’s Included
Comprehensive history & goal setting
Orthopedic & muscle testing (head-to-toe)
Motion analysis
Imaging decisions (if needed)
Pain pattern mapping
Personalized treatment roadmap
Benefit guidance
🕑 Important Details
60 minutes, assessment only
No treatment in this visit
👩⚕️ Who You’ll See
A licensed Registered Physiotherapist or Chiropractor
🔜 What Happens Next
If you’re a fit, we schedule your first treatment and start executing your plan.
🌟 Why Choose Unpain Clinic
Whole-body assessment, not symptom-chasing
Root-cause focus, not temporary relief
Non-invasive where possible
No long-term upsells — just honest, effective care
🎯 Outcome
You’ll walk out knowing:
What’s wrong
Why it hurts
The fastest path to fix it
Author: Uran Berisha, BSc PT, RMT, Shockwave Expert
1. Şah, V. et al. (2023). The Short-Term Efficacy of Large-Focused and Controlled-Unfocused (Radial) Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapies in the Treatment of Hip Osteoarthritis. Journal of Personalized Medicine, 13(1):48. DOI: 10.3390/jpm13010048
2. Notarnicola, A. et al. (2023). Shock Waves and Therapeutic Exercise in Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome: A Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial with Cross-Over. Journal of Personalized Medicine, 13(6):976. DOI: 10.3390/jpm13060976
3. Seo, K.H. et al. (2018). Long-term outcome of low-energy extracorporeal shockwave therapy on gluteal tendinopathy documented by magnetic resonance imaging. PLOS ONE, 13(7): e0197460. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0197460
4. Berisha, U. (Host) (2021, August 6). From prehab to rehab: the ‘hip’ new way patients are crushing their joint replacement surgeries (Unpain Clinic Podcast Episode #5)unpainclinic.comunpainclinic.com.
5. Unpain Clinic. (n.d.). Shockwave Therapy in Edmonton & Summerside (Webpage)unpainclinic.comunpainclinic.com.
6. Unpain Clinic – Reviews Archive. (n.d.). Nancy T. – Hip & Leg Pain testimonial.
7. Unpain Clinic – Hip Pain Relief: The Hidden Connection Between Your Hips & Body (Podcast/Blog Article).
