Focused Shockwave Therapy in Richmond Hill
Focused (extracorporeal) shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment option offered at Union Health Network in Richmond Hill for selected chronic tendinopathies and musculoskeletal conditions. It delivers focused acoustic energy into tissue as part of a broader, assessment-based care plan. Suitability is determined by your assessment — individual results and treatment needs vary.
Common Reasons People Seek a Shockwave Assessment
Shockwave is generally considered for chronic rather than acute problems. You might consider an assessment if you have:
- A chronic tendinopathy that has not improved with other care — for example Achilles, rotator cuff or tennis/golfer’s elbow
- Plantar fasciitis-related heel discomfort
- Calcific tendinitis of the shoulder
- Persistent muscle or myofascial trigger-point pain
- Chronic low back pain where conservative care has plateaued
What a Shockwave Assessment May Involve
Shockwave is one option among several. A first visit determines whether it is appropriate for you:
- A history of your condition and what you have already tried
- Examination of the involved tendon or soft tissue
- A review of whether shockwave is indicated or another approach fits better
- Consideration of imaging or referral where the diagnosis is unclear
- A screen for contraindications (e.g., over open growth plates, pregnancy, bleeding disorders, local infection or malignancy)
How Shockwave Fits Into Your Care
Where appropriate, focused shockwave is combined with active care, not used in isolation. A plan may include:
- A short course of focused shockwave sessions
- Progressive loading and rehabilitation exercises
- Load management and activity modification advice
- Other conservative therapies (manual care, acupuncture) where helpful
- Reassessment of progress before deciding on further sessions
When Shockwave Is Not Appropriate
Shockwave is not a cure-all and is not suitable for everyone. We will take a different approach or refer when:
- An acute tendon tear or rupture is suspected — seek prompt medical assessment
- There is a local infection, tumour or open wound in the treatment area
- There are contraindications such as pregnancy, blood-clotting disorders or treatment over growth plates
- The diagnosis is unclear — further assessment or imaging is appropriate first
- Symptoms do not respond as expected — outcomes vary and other care may be indicated
What to Expect at Your First Visit
At your first visit we take a history, examine the area, and decide whether focused shockwave is appropriate or whether another approach fits better. There is no obligation to begin treatment.
When shockwave is provided, it is generally a short, in-clinic session; you may stay fully clothed. A brief course is typical, and progress is reassessed. Individual response and the number of sessions vary.
No referral is needed. Patients come to us from Richmond Hill, Thornhill, Markham, Vaughan and across the Greater Toronto Area.
Your Provider
Dr. Shahab Entezami, BSc, DC, CMAG
Doctor of Chiropractic · Certification in Contemporary Medical Acupuncture (McMaster)
Dr. Entezami is a licensed chiropractor in Ontario with a focused clinical interest in the conservative care of tendinopathies and chronic musculoskeletal pain. He is a registered chiropractor with the College of Chiropractors of Ontario.
He offers focused shockwave therapy as part of assessment-based care at Union Health Network in Richmond Hill.
Meet the full team on our Our Team page, and see all booking options on the Book an Appointment page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does shockwave hurt?
Focused shockwave can produce brief, tolerable discomfort during application. Intensity is adjusted to your comfort; many people tolerate it well. Individual experience varies.
How many sessions might I need?
A short course is typical, but the number of sessions varies by individual and condition. We reassess your response before deciding on further treatment.
Is shockwave for acute injuries?
Generally no — shockwave is most often considered for chronic tendinopathy that has not responded to other care. Suspected acute tears need a different, prompt assessment.
Is shockwave safe?
For appropriate candidates it is generally low-risk and non-invasive. We screen for contraindications first; it is not suitable for everyone. Individual results vary.
Selected clinical sources
The clinical information above reflects general guidance. Care at our clinic is based on your individual assessment; individual results and treatment needs vary.
Ready to book?
New patients welcome — no referral needed. Serving Richmond Hill, Thornhill, Markham, Vaughan and the GTA.