Applies controlled mechanical energy
The device, applicator, energy, and treatment field are selected for the intended target.
Book an appointment Shockwave therapy · Midtown Manhattan
Focused and radial shockwave for stubborn tendon, soft-tissue, and performance-limiting conditions—integrated into a complete rehabilitation plan.

A focused approach
At CityIR, shockwave therapy is used when it fits the clinical picture—not as a generic add-on. We evaluate the movement, tissue, and loading problem first, then integrate focused or radial shockwave with hands-on care and rehabilitation when appropriate.
The principle
Shockwave stimulates a natural repair response in tissue. The larger goal is to address both the irritated structure and the reason it keeps being overloaded.
What it is
Shockwave therapy—also called extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT)—uses controlled acoustic pressure waves applied to a selected treatment area. The treatment field and biological response vary by device, dose, tissue, and diagnosis.
In musculoskeletal care, it is most often discussed for selected persistent tendon, plantar-fascia, and calcific presentations after an appropriate examination.
The difference
At CityIR, shockwave is paired with the rehabilitation work needed to restore strength, control, and tolerance. Response varies by diagnosis, device, tissue condition, loading plan, and individual factors.
The science
A handheld applicator delivers acoustic pressure waves into a selected treatment area. Focused and radial systems create different treatment fields, so the diagnosis and anatomical target should guide the choice.
The device, applicator, energy, and treatment field are selected for the intended target.
Evidence for calcific conditions is diagnosis- and device-specific; the examination determines whether that evidence applies.
Proposed biological responses are one part of the rationale, but progress is judged by symptoms, function, and loading tolerance.
See it in action
Watch how radial and focused ESWT are applied during a typical treatment session.
Scar & fibrosis care
This treatment video shows shockwave being applied to a healed surgical scar to support remodeling of restricted, superficial scar tissue.
For appropriate scars, acoustic pressure waves may help soften fibrotic tissue, improve pliability, reduce discomfort, and restore movement between the skin, fascia, and surrounding soft tissue. Treatment may be considered after cosmetic procedures and other surgeries once the incision is fully healed and the patient has been medically cleared.
Scar appearance—including redness or pigmentation—may improve as the tissue remodels, but results vary and an exact match to the surrounding skin cannot be guaranteed. Shockwave is applied to the healed scar and surrounding soft tissue; it is not a treatment for an internal organ.
Focused & radial
We match the technology, depth, dosage, and protocol to the condition—not every patient to the same device.
Focused shockwave
Precise delivery for deeper tendon, joint, bone, calcification, and select regenerative protocols.
Radial shockwave
Useful for larger treatment zones, superficial tendon and muscle conditions, trigger points, and fascia.
Why CityIR
Many patients return to routine daily activities after treatment, but soreness and activity guidance vary by diagnosis and response.
Shockwave is paired with the rehabilitation work needed for lasting change.
Your provider selects and adjusts the protocol directly—there is no generic handoff.
Clinical follow-up
We track pain, function, activity tolerance, and response to loading throughout care. Individual outcomes vary, and recommendations are adjusted to the diagnosis and your response.
What to expect
Shockwave is performed in-office and does not require anesthesia or downtime for most patients.
We determine whether shockwave is appropriate for your condition.
Typically 4–6 visits of 15–20 minutes. Mild discomfort is normal; anesthesia is not needed.
Many patients resume routine activity promptly. Exercise timing is individualized, and temporary soreness can occur.
Timing and degree of response vary. Progress is reviewed rather than assumed from a preset timeline.
Conditions we treat
Suitability depends on the diagnosis, tissue, and stage of healing. The evaluation determines the right approach.
Care planning
Treatment choices depend on the diagnosis, severity, health history, goals, and available evidence. Shockwave has stronger evidence for some tendon and plantar-fascia conditions than for tears, fractures, or arthritis, and it is not a substitute for an individual evaluation or a surgical consultation when one is indicated.
Investment
Every cost is discussed before treatment. Coverage varies by plan and diagnosis; our team will explain your options before you commit.
Payment options
Monthly payment options may be available through Cherry, including promotional 0% APR when offered and approved.
FAQ
Most patients feel tapping or pressure. Intensity is adjustable and anesthesia is generally unnecessary.
Many protocols use 4–6 weekly sessions, adjusted to your diagnosis and response.
Some patients notice change within 1–3 sessions; tissue remodeling can continue for 6–12 weeks.
Temporary redness, swelling, tenderness, or soreness may occur for 24–48 hours.
No. Shockwave uses acoustic pressure waves intended to stimulate a repair response.
Shockwave is not appropriate for every person or treatment area. Pregnancy, active infection, tumors in the treatment area, certain bleeding or clotting concerns, and some medications or medical conditions require specific screening. Your clinician will review your history and the proposed treatment site before recommending care.
Right fit
Shockwave may be appropriate when persistent musculoskeletal pain has not responded to more conservative care.
Persistent heel, shoulder, elbow, knee, tendon, or soft-tissue pain.
Rest, medication, injections, or rehabilitation have not produced lasting relief.
The goal is to improve tissue capacity before considering surgery where appropriate.
We review the diagnosis, treatment area, medications, and relevant precautions before recommending shockwave.
Keep exploring
Related CityIR guidance
Midtown Manhattan
420 Madison Ave #803
New York, NY 10017
Start here
We’ll determine whether focused shockwave, radial shockwave, rehabilitation—or another approach—best fits your condition.
Ready to start your recovery?
Book an appointment →