Treatments3 min readNovember 30, 2025

Shockwave Therapy in Hampstead & Golders Green (NW11): What It Treats & When You Need It

Shockwave Therapy in Hampstead & Golders Green (NW11): What It Treats, How It Works & When You Need It

If you’ve been struggling with stubborn tendon pain, plantar fasciitis, or an injury that just won’t settle, shockwave therapy can be one of the fastest and most effective options available.

At Carter & George Hampstead, we offer clinical-grade shockwave therapy, delivered by physiotherapists who have worked in Premier League football, international rugby, and national sport.

This guide explains exactly how shockwave works, what it’s best for, and when you should consider it.

What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy acoustic waves to:

  • stimulate healing in injured tissues

  • increase blood flow

  • break down adhesions/scar tissue

  • reduce chronic pain

  • accelerate recovery

It’s commonly used in elite sport when players need to return quickly - but it’s just as effective for everyday runners, gym-goers, and active patients.

Which Injuries Does Shockwave Therapy Treat?

Shockwave works best on chronic, slow-to-heal injuries - especially tendon problems.

1. Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Pain

One of the most common conditions we treat at the Hampstead clinic.
Shockwave is one of the most evidence-based treatments available.

2. Achilles Tendinopathy

Great for runners and gym-goers in NW3 & NW11 who get persistent calf or heel pain.

3. Patella (Kneecap) Tendinopathy

Often called “jumper’s knee.”
Responds extremely well to shockwave + strengthening.

4. Tennis Elbow / Golfers Elbow

Elbow tendon issues are notoriously slow to heal - shockwave speeds things up.

5. Gluteal Tendinopathy

A common cause of hip pain, especially in walkers and runners around Golders Green and Hampstead Heath.

6. Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy

Shoulder tendon pain from gym training, racket sports or overuse.

7. Hamstring Tendinopathy

Often misdiagnosed as “hamstring tightness.” Shockwave is extremely effective here.

Is Shockwave Therapy Painful?

Most people describe shockwave as “uncomfortable but manageable.”
It typically lasts 5–10 minutes, and you can resume normal activity afterwards.

Your physiotherapist can adjust the intensity depending on the stage of your recovery.

How Many Sessions Do You Need?

Most patients need 3–6 sessions spaced a week apart.
This depends on:

  • how long the injury has been present

  • training load

  • tendon thickness

  • your rehab plan

The key is combining shockwave therapy with proper strengthening - which we build into your programme.

Why Choose Carter & George Hampstead for Shockwave?

Our clinic sits between Hampstead Village and Golders Green, making it easily accessible for patients across NW3, NW11, Temple Fortune and East Finchley.

What makes us different:

Elite-Sport Clinicians

Our team (including former Tottenham Hotspur FC & England Beach Football physios) use the same shockwave protocols used in professional sport.

No Hidden Fees

We don’t believe it charging extras. If we think you would benefit from shockwave - we will include it within your normal treatment session.

Faster Recovery Timelines

Shockwave allows us to speed up tendon healing and get you back to running, training or sport safely.


Shockwave Therapy vs Physiotherapy: Which Do You Need?

Shockwave is not a replacement for physiotherapy - it enhances it.

You likely need shockwave if:

  • your pain has lasted 6+ weeks

  • it gets worse with activity

  • movement improves your pain but loading makes it worse

  • the area feels thickened or stiff

  • rest hasn’t helped

If your injury is acute (sudden tear or sprain), physio alone may be more appropriate initially.

Is Shockwave Therapy Safe?

Yes - when done by trained clinicians, shockwave is safe, non-invasive, and evidence-based.

It’s not suitable for everyone (e.g., pregnancy, certain health conditions).
Your physio will screen you before treatment.

Book Shockwave Therapy in Hampstead & NW11

We offer appointments throughout the week, with same-day availability in most cases.

👉 Book Online
👉 Call the Hampstead Clinic: 01992 446725