Forward Spine Center offers shockwave therapy at 701 Decatur Ave N in Golden Valley, Minnesota, just west of Minneapolis, for people with tendon and soft-tissue pain that has lingered for months. Care is noninvasive: no medication, no injections and no surgery.
Why patients choose us
- Dr. Timothy Klesk, DC is certified in shockwave therapy through The Academy of Shockwave Excellence
- An exam comes before any shockwave session
- Chiropractic, rehab and acupuncture under one roof
- No referral needed: book online or by phone
Visit us
701 Decatur Ave N, Ste 102
Golden Valley, MN 55427
Serving Golden Valley, Plymouth, St. Louis Park and Minneapolis
Get directions · Hours & contact
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy is a noninvasive treatment that sends focused acoustic (sound) waves through the skin into a painful tendon or soft-tissue area. It is thought to increase local blood flow and prompt a healing response in tissue that has stalled. It is most often considered when pain has lasted for months and hasn't improved with rest, stretching or other care.
Shockwave and acoustic wave devices differ in type and energy level, and much of the published research was done with medical extracorporeal shockwave (ESWT) machines, so results from those studies don't automatically carry over to every device. Dr. Tim will tell you honestly what to expect for your situation.
Shockwave works best as one part of a plan. That's why it's paired with strengthening and load work for the tendon involved, plus chiropractic or soft-tissue care when mechanics elsewhere are adding to the problem.
What Shockwave Therapy Is Used For
These are the chronic tendon and soft-tissue problems patients most often ask us about. Whether shockwave is a good fit is decided at your exam.
Plantar fasciitis & heel pain
Heel pain that's worst with the first steps in the morning and hasn't settled with stretching, shoes and rest.
Read the heel pain guideTennis & golfer's elbow
Outer or inner elbow tendon pain from gripping, lifting, desk work, trades or racket sports.
Read the elbow guideShoulder tendon pain
Rotator cuff tendon pain, including calcific tendinitis, where calcium deposits form in the tendon.
Read the shoulder guideAchilles tendon pain
Pain in the middle of the Achilles or where it attaches to the heel, common in runners and walkers.
Read the runners' guideHigh hamstring & outer hip pain
A deep ache near the sit bone, or pain on the outside of the hip from the gluteal tendons.
Read the runners' guideShin splints & other tendon pain
Other slow-to-heal tendon and soft-tissue injuries, including patellar tendon (jumper's knee) pain.
See all conditions we treat
Your Shockwave Visit in Golden Valley
We confirm what's causing the pain before recommending shockwave, then build it into a plan.
History & exam
We review your symptoms and history and examine the area to make sure shockwave is a good fit. Bring any imaging or notes from other providers.
Shockwave session
If it's appropriate, gel is applied and acoustic waves are delivered with a handheld applicator for about 5 to 10 minutes. Most people go back to their normal day right away.
A plan around it
Sessions are paired with exercises for the tendon involved, guidance on activity and load, and chiropractic or soft-tissue care when it helps.
When shockwave isn't the right choice
Shockwave isn't a fit for every kind of pain. It isn't used in some situations, such as pregnancy, open wounds or certain medical conditions, which is why an exam comes first. If your pain is new or severe, or comes with numbness, weakness, fever or significant swelling, see a medical provider promptly. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Shockwave Therapy Guides
Straight answers on what shockwave can and can't do, from our Golden Valley clinic.
Does shockwave therapy work for chronic pain?
How it works and what the research does and doesn't show.
Shockwave vs. cortisone vs. PRP
How the three options compare for chronic tendon pain, and questions to ask.
How to choose a shockwave provider
What to look for in a provider near Minneapolis, wherever you go.
Shockwave Therapy Questions
Where can I get shockwave therapy in Golden Valley, MN?
Forward Spine Center, 701 Decatur Ave N, Ste 102, Golden Valley, MN 55427, offers shockwave therapy with Dr. Timothy Klesk, DC, who is certified through The Academy of Shockwave Excellence. The clinic serves Golden Valley, Plymouth, St. Louis Park and Minneapolis. Book online or call 763-332-2680.
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
Most people feel a tapping or pulsing sensation that can be uncomfortable over sore spots. The intensity is adjusted to your comfort during the session, and mild soreness afterward is normal.
How long is a shockwave session?
The shockwave part of a visit takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Your first visit takes longer because it starts with a history and exam.
How many shockwave sessions will I need?
It depends on the condition and how long you've had it. Shockwave is usually given as a short series of sessions, about a week apart, rather than a single visit. You'll get an estimate after your exam.
Is there downtime after shockwave therapy?
Most people return to their normal activities the same day. There's no surgery, injection or medication involved. Your plan may include temporary changes to running, lifting or other activities that load the sore tendon.
Who should not have shockwave therapy?
Shockwave isn't used in some situations, such as pregnancy, open wounds or certain medical conditions. That's why every patient has an exam first. New, severe pain or pain with numbness, weakness, fever or significant swelling should be checked by a medical provider.
Do I need a referral for shockwave therapy?
No. You can book directly with Forward Spine Center online or by phone at 763-332-2680. Bring any imaging or notes from other providers if you have them.
Ready to Get Past Stubborn Tendon Pain?
Forward Spine Center, 701 Decatur Ave N, Ste 102, Golden Valley, MN 55427. Shockwave therapy with Dr. Timothy Klesk, DC, serving Golden Valley, Plymouth, St. Louis Park and Minneapolis.
This page is general information, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Results vary. Last updated: October 18, 2026.
