Call us now: 020 7435 4910 · Appointments within 24 to 48 hours
A physiotherapist applying a shockwave handpiece to a patient’s shoulder in clinic
4.8 ★★★★★ · 140 Google reviews

Shockwave therapy in London

Focused shockwave for stubborn tendon problems that have not settled with rehabilitation alone.

  • Initial assessment £85
  • Hampstead & Highgate
  • No GP referral needed
  • Appointments in 24 to 48 hours

What shockwave therapy actually is

Shockwave therapy uses high-energy sound waves, delivered through the skin by a handpiece, to reach the tendon underneath. The pulses stimulate blood flow and the body’s own repair response in tissue that has become slow to heal.

It is a treatment for persistent, long-standing tendon pain rather than a fresh injury, and it is usually considered once loading exercises and hands-on treatment on their own have not settled things. It works alongside a rehabilitation programme, not instead of one.

What to expect

How a course of treatment works

Three stages, and you will know after the first one whether shockwave is worth adding.

01AssessmentA full physiotherapy assessment first, to confirm the problem is tendon-related and that shockwave is the right thing to add to your treatment.
02Treatment sessionsA short session with the handpiece over the affected tendon. Most people describe it as uncomfortable rather than painful, and it takes only a few minutes.
03Rehabilitation planLoading exercises run alongside the sessions. The shockwave supports your rehabilitation; it does not replace it.
Who you will see

Delivered by shockwave-trained physiotherapists

Shockwave is delivered by our musculoskeletal and sports physiotherapists, all chartered members of the CSP and registered with the HCPC. The same clinician, or small team of clinicians, assesses you, treats you and writes your loading programme, so nothing gets lost between appointments.

Meet the team →

Award-winning
  • Best Sports Injury & Physiotherapy Specialist2026
Transparent pricing

What it costs

Published up front, with no charge for a treatment plan you have not agreed to.

Initial assessment (30 minutes)£85
Follow-up session (30 minutes)£85

Initial assessment and treatment are included in the first appointment. See all prices →

Private health insurance

We invoice these insurers directly

Check your cover →
Patient reviews

What our patients say

4.8 ★★★★★
140 Google reviews · SMARTPHYSIO Hampstead
Read all reviews
JTJonathan ThorntonJuly 2026
★★★★★

“Shokola was great with my 12 year old daughter. She got straight to the issue and made good and practical suggestions for treatment.”

Google review →
DSDeborah SimmonsJuly 2026
★★★★★

“Harsha has been kind, attentive and has helped me hugely with my hip and Achilles injuries. She’s a brilliant and very knowledgeable physiotherapist and I recommend her highly.”

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NHNicky HorneJune 2026
★★★★★

“I have seen several different therapists at Sammy Margo’s over many years. Every one has been excellent. When I was recovering from a hip replacement the physio I received helped me recover really quickly. Highly recommended.”

Google review →
NSNigel SpackmanMay 2026
★★★★★

“I had a full hip replacement following a cycle accident, and have daily physio visits on weekdays for three weeks. I am already able to walk short distances without a stick or crutch, and this is entirely due to the work they have done with me.”

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ANAdrian NaftalinApril 2026
★★★★★

“Thanks to Olga I have made great strides in my recovery from the after-effects of sepsis. My strength, balance and mobility have improved enormously under her excellent physiotherapy. I would recommend her wholeheartedly.”

Google review →
Good to know

Frequently asked questions

Does shockwave therapy hurt?
Most people find it uncomfortable rather than painful, and only for the few minutes the handpiece is on the tendon. Your physiotherapist adjusts the intensity as you go, so tell them how it feels.
How many sessions will I need?
That depends on the tendon and how long it has been going on. Your physiotherapist will give you a realistic number at your assessment rather than committing you to a course up front.
Can I have shockwave therapy at home?
No. Shockwave is clinic only, because of the equipment. If you cannot get to a clinic, our physiotherapists can treat the same conditions at home with hands-on treatment and a loading programme.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You can book an assessment directly. Some insurers ask for a referral before they will cover treatment, so check your policy first.
Is it covered by my insurance?
We invoice most major UK health insurers directly. Cover for shockwave specifically varies between policies, so it is worth confirming with your insurer before your first session.

Let's get you moving again

Tell us about a home visit and we will call you back the same working day, or book a clinic appointment online.