Quick answer: Shockwave therapy is a noninvasive option sometimes used for tennis elbow (pain on the outside of the elbow) and golfer's elbow (pain on the inside) when months of rest, bracing and exercises have not helped. Orthopedic sources describe it as still considered experimental by many doctors, with some evidence that it can be effective, so it works best alongside forearm strengthening. At Forward Spine Center in Golden Valley, Dr. Timothy Klesk, DC, certified through The Academy of Shockwave Excellence, offers it after an exam.
What are tennis elbow and golfer's elbow?
Both are overuse problems in the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the elbow. Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) causes pain on the outside of the elbow, often with gripping, lifting a coffee cup, or using a mouse. Golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis) causes pain on the inside of the elbow, often with gripping, throwing, or lifting. Despite the names, most people who get them do not play tennis or golf. Desk work, trades, lifting, and childcare are common triggers.
What does the evidence say about shockwave for elbow tendon pain?
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons lists extracorporeal shockwave therapy among the nonsurgical options for tennis elbow. It explains that shockwave sends sound waves to the elbow to promote the body's natural healing processes, and notes that it is considered experimental by many doctors, though some sources show it can be effective (AAOS OrthoInfo: Tennis Elbow). We present it the same way: an option worth discussing for stubborn elbow pain, not a guarantee.
What does an elbow shockwave plan look like at Forward Spine Center?
- Exam first. Dr. Klesk confirms the pain is coming from the elbow tendons and not from the neck, a pinched nerve, or the joint itself.
- Shockwave sessions, if appropriate. Gel is applied and acoustic waves are delivered over the sore tendon with a handheld applicator. Sessions are short, and most people return to work the same day.
- Forearm strengthening. Gradual grip and wrist exercises that rebuild the tendon's capacity, because rest alone rarely does.
- Workload changes. Practical adjustments to how you grip, lift or set up your desk while the tendon recovers.
Because chiropractic, acupuncture and rehab are under one roof, your plan can also address the neck and upper back if they are part of the problem. See the conditions we treat.
When should you see a medical doctor instead?
See a medical provider promptly if your elbow pain followed a fall or a pop, if you cannot straighten or bend the elbow, if there is significant swelling, redness, warmth or fever, or if you have numbness, tingling or weakness in the hand.
Frequently asked questions
Does shockwave therapy work for tennis elbow?
It helps some people and not others. Orthopedic sources describe it as considered experimental by many doctors, with some evidence that it can be effective. That is why it is offered after an exam and paired with forearm strengthening.
Can shockwave therapy help golfer's elbow?
Golfer's elbow is a similar tendon overuse problem on the inside of the elbow, and shockwave is sometimes used for it in the same way. Dr. Klesk will tell you after your exam whether it is a reasonable option for you.
Is shockwave better than a cortisone shot for elbow pain?
They work differently. We compare them in Shockwave vs. cortisone vs. PRP for chronic tendon pain. Decisions about injections belong with your medical doctor.
Will I need time off work?
Usually not. Most people go back to normal activities the same day, with some temporary changes to the tasks that aggravate the elbow.
Where can I get shockwave therapy for elbow pain near Minneapolis?
Forward Spine Center, 701 Decatur Ave N, Ste 102, Golden Valley, MN, serving Golden Valley, Minneapolis, St. Louis Park, Plymouth and the west metro. Book online or call 763-332-2680.
Keep reading
- Shockwave therapy at Forward Spine Center
- Does shockwave therapy work for chronic pain?
- How to choose a certified shockwave provider near Minneapolis
- Shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis and heel pain
- Shockwave therapy for shoulder pain and calcific tendinitis
Written by Dr. Timothy Klesk, DC, certified in shockwave therapy through The Academy of Shockwave Excellence. Published . This article is educational and is not a substitute for an in-person evaluation.
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