Shockwave Therapy vs Focused Shockwave Therapy
At Foot Clinic NI, we offer advanced Shockwave Therapy to help patients with chronic foot and
heel pain. There are two main types of shockwave therapy used in modern podiatry: Radial
Shockwave Therapy (the most common form, often simply called Shockwave or ESWT) and
Focused Shockwave Therapy. Understanding the difference helps us choose the most effective
treatment for your specific condition.
What is Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)?
Shockwave Therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-
invasive treatment that uses acoustic sound waves to stimulate the body’s natural healing
processes. It is particularly effective for long-standing (chronic) conditions such as plantar fasciitis,
Achilles tendinopathy and heel pain that have not responded to other conservative treatments like
rest, orthotics or physiotherapy.
The treatment works by delivering controlled acoustic energy to the affected area. This creates
beneficial micro-trauma that increases blood flow, stimulates collagen production, breaks down
scar tissue and reduces pain by desensitising nerve endings.
The Two Main Types of Shockwave Therapy
Extracorporeal shockwave Therapy (ESWT)
This is the most widely used form of shockwave therapy in podiatry clinics. Shockwaves
spread outwards from the point of application, treating a broader area of tissue. It is highly effective
for superficial structures such as the plantar fascia and is generally very well tolerated by patients.
Key characteristics:
• Waves radiate outwards – good for larger treatment areas
• Typical penetration depth: 3–4 cm
• Excellent for plantar fasciitis and many Achilles issues
• Comfortable treatment with minimal side effects
Focused Shockwave Therapy (FSWT)
Focused shockwave therapy generates high-energy waves that converge at a precise focal point
deep within the tissue. This allows for highly targeted treatment of deeper structures with greater
precision and intensity.
Key characteristics:
• Waves converge at a precise focal point
• Greater treatment depth – up to approximately 12 cm
• Higher precision for deeper or more stubborn conditions
• Often used in specialist or hospital settings for complex cases
What Foot Clinic NI Offers
At Foot Clinic NI in Bangor, we provide Radial Shockwave Therapy using modern, clinically
validated equipment. This is our primary shockwave offering and is highly effective for the majority
of patients with plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy and chronic heel pain.
Our experienced HCPC-registered podiatrists assess every patient individually. Where a case may
benefit from the deeper precision of Focused Shockwave Therapy, we can discuss suitability and
referral options to ensure you receive the most appropriate care.
Both types of shockwave therapy are non-invasive, have strong evidence supporting their use, and
are recognised by NICE guidelines for refractory plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy.
Treatment is quick (usually 5–10 minutes per session) with little to no downtime.
Ready to find out if Shockwave Therapy is right for you?
Book a consultation with one of our podiatrists today. We will carry out a full assessment and
recommend the most suitable treatment for your condition. Call 028 9147 1296 or book online at
