How to choose a shockwave therapy practitioner

In short: look for a practitioner who diagnoses the problem before treating it, is trained in shockwave therapy, uses a type of device that suits your condition, and tells you plainly what to expect and what it costs.

What to look for

• A diagnosis first. Shockwave therapy should follow an examination and, where needed, imaging. Be cautious about treatment offered without one.
• A registered profession. Ask which profession the practitioner is registered in, and where. Who may provide shockwave therapy differs between countries and professions.
• Training in shockwave therapy. Ask where they trained. A society certificate shows they met that society's requirements; it is not a licence. What credentials mean explains the difference.
• The right type of device. Focused shockwaves and radial pressure waves suit different problems. See focused versus radial.
• Honest expectations. A good practitioner explains the evidence for your condition, how many sessions are likely, possible side effects and the total cost, and doesn't promise a cure.

Questions to ask before treatment

1. What is my diagnosis, and how was it confirmed?
2. Why do you recommend shockwave therapy for it, and what else could I try?
3. Do you use focused or radial treatment, and why?
4. Is there any reason I shouldn't have it, given my health and medication?
5. How many sessions, how far apart, and what will it cost in total?
6. What should I do, and avoid, after each session?
7. What happens if it doesn't help?

Using this directory

Every profile in the directory is reviewed before it is published, but licences and certificates aren't checked yet, and a listing is not a recommendation. Use the questions above with any practitioner you find here.

Search the directory or browse by location.