Shockwave Therapy at Life Performance Health
*Limited appointments available this week – no referral needed. HICAPS claims on the spot.
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), commonly known as shockwave therapy, is a non-invasive treatment used to assist the management of a range of chronic tendon and soft tissue conditions.
Using a handheld device, shockwave delivers acoustic energy into the affected tissue. Research suggests this may help reduce pain, improve function and stimulate tissue responses associated with healing and tendon remodelling.
Shockwave therapy is most commonly used for conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, gluteal tendinopathy, patellar tendinopathy, tennis elbow and some shoulder tendon conditions.
While treatment itself only takes a few minutes, shockwave is rarely used in isolation. The best results are typically achieved when it forms part of a broader management plan that may include strength training, load management, mobility work and return-to-sport or activity planning.
What does the evidence say?
The strongest and most consistent evidence for shockwave therapy is in the treatment of plantar fasciitis (plantar heel pain), where systematic reviews have demonstrated improvements in pain and function.
There is also some evidence supporting its use in Achilles tendinopathy, rotator cuff tendinopathy and other persistent tendon conditions, particularly where symptoms have not responded to previous rehab that may have included rest, stretching or other conservative treatments.
Because not every painful tendon or heel condition is the same, an accurate diagnosis remains essential. Our clinicians assess the source of your symptoms, contributing factors and overall rehabilitation needs to determine whether shockwave therapy is likely to be beneficial for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is shockwave therapy painful?
Treatment can feel uncomfortable, particularly over sensitive heel or tendon areas. Most patients tolerate it well, and the intensity is adjusted to suit you.
Who is shockwave best suited for?
ESWT is generally suited to people with pain lasting longer than 6–12 weeks, recurring tendon or heel pain, and limited improvement from previous therapy, rest, stretching or massage.
Can I continue training during treatment?
In many cases, yes. Shockwave can be used while continuing a modified training, walking or gym plan depending on the injury and symptom response. Your clinician will advise on load management throughout.
Are there any reasons shockwave may not be suitable?
Shockwave may not be appropriate for some patients, including those with certain medical conditions, pregnancy, local infection, blood clotting issues or specific medication considerations. Your clinician will screen for this before treatment.
How many sessions will I need?
Commonly 3-5 sessions are used, but this will vary pending the condition and your individual response. Your clinician will outline a recommended plan following the initial assessment, typically combining shockwave with a structured rehabilitation programme.
How much does it cost?
A session of shockwave will include the cost of the appointment, plus a charge of between $50-$70 for use of the device.
What is the difference between shockwave and cortisone injections?
Shockwave is a non-invasive option that may offer longer-lasting outcomes for some tendon conditions. A 2024 review found ESWT compared favourably to corticosteroid injections for plantar fasciitis at around three months for pain and function outcomes.
Where do you offer shockwave?
Our Life Performance Sports Medicine (West Melbourne) and Life Performance In Stride (Ascot Vale) clinics both offer shockwave. Choose your preferred location below and book your initial Podiatry or Physiotherapy appointment today!
Angelica G.
02:01 18 Apr 26
Have been coming here for a couple of months and have enjoyed it so far. The focus on reformer Pilates. All of the unstructured have been good and kind. The gym also has machines for weights and cardio. Good enough to complement the work out. And it is always nice to finish a few sessions with the InfraRed sauna.
Anna V.
10:06 17 Apr 26
Dr Victoria Norbury is incredible caring, thoughtful, thorough and knowledgeable. I am so grateful for her support with evaluating my ankle injury
Thomas M.
03:54 19 Mar 26
I can’t recommend Courtney highly enough! She went above and beyond to get my calf injury sorted so I could run the Melbourne Marathon. From the start, she created a tailored plan combining hands-on treatment and targeted exercises I could do at home. Her expertise, dedication, and care made all the difference. I owe my marathon PB to her. If you’re looking for a physio who will go the extra mile and help you perform at your best, Courtney is your go to!
Richard D.
22:18 09 Mar 26
Great staff and easy access
Angelina M.
11:04 03 Feb 26
Excellent practitioners that really take the time to understand what you are going through and to support you on the road to recovery and strengthening your overall body, not just the injury. Equipment is A1 and staff are relaxed and friendly. Shoutout to Shea, amazing with teen athletes.
Andrew F.
01:50 13 Dec 25
Sam Turner is flat out the best podiatrist! Also the nicest guy in the world. Would 100% recommend him!
louisa B.
23:12 25 Nov 25
Would highly recommend Life performance sports medicine. I partially dislocated my shoulder in October 2024 and was given an incorrect diagnosis after a scan.
On the recommendation of a friend I consulted Shane here at Life performance sports medicine and after a lot of hard work I am now able swim properly where before I couldn't lift my arm above my head.
On the recommendation of a friend I consulted Shane here at Life performance sports medicine and after a lot of hard work I am now able swim properly where before I couldn't lift my arm above my head.
Jacquie S.
08:53 21 Nov 25
Great integrated care from podiatry, physio and sports medicine team, including prevention, maintenance, pre- and post- surgical care. Flexible, expert and patient centred. Special call out to Sam Turner, Steph Novak and Bron Anderson 🙂
William H.
18:56 12 Nov 25
Great team with numerous techniques to better the area of your body requiring attention
Malcolm M
01:09 24 Oct 25
After having meniscus repair surgery from a climbing injury, I started seeing Derek to rebuild strength and mobility in my right knee. From the start, Derek was super approachable, explained everything clearly, and set up a plan that worked for me and was easy to follow. Although he is not a climber he understands movement well and always tried to relate it back to my sport in order to get me back on the wall ASAP. My knee is now much stronger and I'm back climbing better than I was before the injury! The only problem is my left knee is now weaker than my right so I have some catch-up to do. Thanks Derek!
saju R.
23:17 23 Oct 25
I am a passionate runner, I have been struggling with calf injury for the past 2 years and was unable to run my half marathons. I was referred to Shane O’Sullivan at the Life Performance by my doctor. With a proper rehab program Shane was able to get me back to running, I finished the Nike Half Marathon under 2 hours this year.. extremely grateful and I will strongly recommend Shane & Life performance for anyone who is looking to recover from sport injury properly.
Thiana N.
23:32 22 Sep 25
I had a great experience with Sam.
He was conscientious and diligent, making sure to assess my condition thoroughly. What stood out was his amiable nature and competence. I felt completely at ease throughout the entire process. Sam delivered a truly effective solution that was perfectly tailored to my needs and I found myself walking with less pain and more confidence.
Highly recommended!
He was conscientious and diligent, making sure to assess my condition thoroughly. What stood out was his amiable nature and competence. I felt completely at ease throughout the entire process. Sam delivered a truly effective solution that was perfectly tailored to my needs and I found myself walking with less pain and more confidence.
Highly recommended!
Daniel W.
01:34 19 Sep 25
I have seen Shane, Shae and Sam for numerous lower leg injuries from sprinting. They’re all elite operators, highly recommend this clinic!
Liam F.
05:42 17 Sep 25
I booked in for an appointment with Derek following an excruciating knee injury incurred while running. This man is an absolute wizard and one of the finest imports from across the Pacific! Derek approached my injury methodically, and within 4 weeks I was back running, much stronger than before the injury.
Absolutely cannot recommend Derek and the whole team enough. The caring and trauma informed approach to treatment here is second to none!
Absolutely cannot recommend Derek and the whole team enough. The caring and trauma informed approach to treatment here is second to none!
Joey W.
03:23 13 Sep 25
Sam is an absolute wizard. Suffered from a really painful ingrown toe and he looked after me. Personable, friendly and genuinely wants the best for you. Thorough with his work and was able to fix me up, couldn’t reccomend higher. Cheers Sam!
Caz D.
00:59 27 Aug 25
I can not speak highly enough of Ruby. She is by far the best Physio I have ever had and her approach to treatment, movement and getting you back to feeling good within your body is what has completely changed my mindset regarding my recovery post back surgery. She is so knowledgeable and her attention and care truly sets her apart from all the other Physio’s I have seen throughout my battle with chronic pain. Ruby and the team at Life Performance/ Errol St Physio are exceptional.
Jack C
05:10 26 Aug 25
Been dealing with Shea for my recent ACL injury that I did playing footy, couldn’t be in better hands!! Meeting all my markers that we have set so far, and feeling better by the day! A great environment as a whole, with a very friendly team.
Charlotte N.
05:43 01 Aug 25
I have had nothing but the most amazing experience at Life Performance. Bronwyn was so supportive and I cannot recommend this clinic and Bronwyn enough 🙂
Victoria M.
07:41 23 Jul 25
I have been seeing Shane and the team for individual consultations and group classes to help with an ongoing hip problem. The whole team is so lovely and professional to deal with. The care and attention to detail is outstanding and I always feel very welcome and well looked after. Wouldn’t go anywhere else.
David L.
08:47 21 Jul 25
Senior physio Shane has looked after me for a number of years, for a number of different issues, including getting back to a high standard of basketball after a torn Achilles. In recent weeks he has helped me shake off a bout of tennis elbow.
Shane is an elite physio who is thorough in his testing & tailors specific treatment plans according to your needs.
Shane is also highly skilled in many different areas including hands on treatment (needling, deep tissue work etc)
The facility is top notch with high end equipment & strength testing devices to help measure your progress.
Sessions are not rushed like other clinics can be so you always leave with a clear understanding of the exercises you need to follow - which can also be accessed from an app with specific notes attached for you to follow.
If you have a niggling issue that won’t go away or a new injury - do yourself a favour and book in to see Shane. You won’t be disappointed.
Shane is an elite physio who is thorough in his testing & tailors specific treatment plans according to your needs.
Shane is also highly skilled in many different areas including hands on treatment (needling, deep tissue work etc)
The facility is top notch with high end equipment & strength testing devices to help measure your progress.
Sessions are not rushed like other clinics can be so you always leave with a clear understanding of the exercises you need to follow - which can also be accessed from an app with specific notes attached for you to follow.
If you have a niggling issue that won’t go away or a new injury - do yourself a favour and book in to see Shane. You won’t be disappointed.
Rick P.
23:05 17 Jul 25
Very good analytical qualities with Shea in diagnosing and treating a deep tissue muscle strain. Walked in all bent over, came out striding! Very grateful
Aisling B
23:15 14 Jul 25
Derek has not only helped me to finally get rid of my longstanding back pain, but he’s helped me get so much stronger, more mobile, and (for the first time ever) enjoy strength training! His expertise and encouragement are really motivating, and after many months working together we’ve been able to hit goals that I wouldn’t have even thought were possible for me!
The group classes run by all of the physios at LPSM are amazing. Each and every one of them are so attentive and encouraging, the facilities are fantastic, and with the classes being small it feels like a really lovely community. I couldn’t recommend Derek and his colleagues highly enough!
The group classes run by all of the physios at LPSM are amazing. Each and every one of them are so attentive and encouraging, the facilities are fantastic, and with the classes being small it feels like a really lovely community. I couldn’t recommend Derek and his colleagues highly enough!
Deanna D.
06:32 14 Jul 25
I can’t speak highly enough of Shane and the team at Life Performance Sports Medicine! I came to him with a severe hamstring and torn tendon injury. I could barely walk, let alone run. From the very beginning, Shane’s knowledge, precision, and personalised approach gave me total confidence I was in the best hands.
Through intense rehab and targeted strength training, Shane not only got me moving again, but got me back to running stronger than ever. His attention to detail and commitment to my recovery was second to none.
The entire team at Life Performance Sports Medicine are equally incredible, professional, supportive, and genuinely invested in your journey. You feel like more than just a patient, you’re part of a high-performance environment that really delivers.
If you’re dealing with any injury and want real, lasting results, this is the place. Absolute legends!
Through intense rehab and targeted strength training, Shane not only got me moving again, but got me back to running stronger than ever. His attention to detail and commitment to my recovery was second to none.
The entire team at Life Performance Sports Medicine are equally incredible, professional, supportive, and genuinely invested in your journey. You feel like more than just a patient, you’re part of a high-performance environment that really delivers.
If you’re dealing with any injury and want real, lasting results, this is the place. Absolute legends!
Dhyan A.
00:00 13 Jul 25
Derek has been outstanding with my son's back injury. All the staff are professional and friendly and the facilities are excellent.
Paul M
18:44 08 Jul 25
I thoroughly recommend the care, professionalism and services at Life Performance Sports Medicine. I have engaged LPSM for separate injuries over a number of years, most notably my hamstrings and shoulders. On every occasion I have been fully rehabilitated following direct treatment and helpful and achievable care treatment plans. The guys always use a vast array of the most modern equipment and techniques to identify and track the nature of the injury and recovery progress including massive gyms that are utilised for every aspect of my treatment and conditioning plans. I really appreciate the Apps that record, demonstrate and monitor my treatment progress. Finally a big shout out to Shane and the staff who are super friendly, supportive and really accommodating of my circumstances to help me recover quickly. Cheers guys.
Stefan R.
10:09 08 Jul 25
Shane and Shae are amazing. Beeing working with them for a while. I’m a fitness professional and over my years I’ve been to a number of health professionals and I’ve found LIFE PERFORMANCE the best I have worked with.
Max
04:44 16 May 25
Shane has mastered the craft. One of the best Physio's I’ve come across
Jack B.
04:33 16 May 25
Shane and the LPSM team have been fantastic, professional and through their rehab program facilitated my return to sport. I can’t recommend them enough.
Ed B.
01:16 11 Apr 25
Excellent Physios. I have seen them for numerous issues and they always do a great job. I wouldn’t go anywhere else
Peter T.
13:32 28 Jan 25
Derek at Life Performance Fitness is the most effective physio I have ever worked with. He has taken me from a place of chronic back, neck and head pain, to a place where I am now living my best life.
I nearly had to quit my job because I was in so much, but Derek worked with me and got me better. I'm free of pain, and I have never been so fit and healthy. I appreciate his friendly manner, his depth of knowledge, his patience, and his practical tips and exercises on how to get better.
Thank you Derek! You've been a lifesaver!
I nearly had to quit my job because I was in so much, but Derek worked with me and got me better. I'm free of pain, and I have never been so fit and healthy. I appreciate his friendly manner, his depth of knowledge, his patience, and his practical tips and exercises on how to get better.
Thank you Derek! You've been a lifesaver!
Geoff G
00:22 28 Jan 25
Physio with Dion has been brilliant. High level of care, professionalism, attention to detail and respect. Highly recommended
Beck T.
07:07 20 Dec 24
Shane has treated our two gymnast daughters, 12 and 14, for several months relating to various issues including torn ankle ligaments, osgood schlatter syndrome and hamstring conditions. He is calming, reassuring and incredibly knowledgeable, and has been proactive in providing the best care to allow them to get back to full capacity in the quickest and safest way. We are very grateful that the girls are being treated by such an elite physio.
Sebastian I.
22:28 19 Dec 24
Shane has taken great care of me over the years. His expertise and knowledge has made me trust him in whatever issue I may have without skipping a heartbeat. If you are playing sport and develop an injury, Shane will fix you up in no time! I’m very grateful to have found him!
Michelle C.
10:33 19 Nov 24
Shane & Shae have provided me physiotherapy treatment for a couple of months following an ACL injury suffered playing Footy in July 2024.
Shane & Shea have provided excellent advice and treatment post surgery.
My knee is stable, strong and I am back running. The team have provided a clear rehabilitation programme throughout, set realistic goals and optimised my recovery. I am very grateful indeed and I cannot recommend Shane & Shea highly enough.
They are both great genuine people who are passionate about their work & clientele.
Let’s not forget the reception staff who are so friendly and welcoming.
I highly recommend Life Performance Sports Medicine for all your rehab, strength & conditioning training.
Thank you Riley & Mum
Shane & Shea have provided excellent advice and treatment post surgery.
My knee is stable, strong and I am back running. The team have provided a clear rehabilitation programme throughout, set realistic goals and optimised my recovery. I am very grateful indeed and I cannot recommend Shane & Shea highly enough.
They are both great genuine people who are passionate about their work & clientele.
Let’s not forget the reception staff who are so friendly and welcoming.
I highly recommend Life Performance Sports Medicine for all your rehab, strength & conditioning training.
Thank you Riley & Mum
Garry S.
00:14 01 Oct 24
These guys are fully dedicated to getting you back on track and are fully committed in you welfare.
Bhaven
23:02 16 Aug 24
Derek helped me recover quickly from a hamstring injury with great advice and effective exercises. Thanks to him, I’m feeling much better and getting back to playing. Highly recommend Derek if you need a good physio!
Dallas B.
00:46 19 Jul 24
I’ve been seeing Paul at Errol St Physio and Life Performance for several years. He is a very perceptive and intuitive massage therapist in that he always finds the problem and I walk away refreshed every time. I’ve also had great results with podiatrist Sam keeping my feet marathon ready and physio Bethany for rebuilding my back after years of back spasms!
Payal N.
03:07 16 Jul 24
I was nervous going into a physio for the first time, but Life Performance made it so easy for me to find the right physio for my needs. Bethany has been amazing - she instantly put my fears to rest and put me on track to recovery.
Em C
03:37 17 Jun 24
Sam the podiatrist is excellent. Not only do I see him myself for my own foot and ankle issues, but I have also refer my players at the NPL DIV 1 soccer club where I am the head physio - for their foot injuries, shin splints, and complex ankle injuries for the last 4 years for second opinion & management. Sam is efficient at communicating with me regarding players status and co-treating players. He is a valuable asset to us at the club and knows his way around football boots and injuries!
Callum H.
09:17 07 Jun 24
I’ve never had as good results with a Physio than I have with Derek from Life performance Health. I honestly thought after multiple failed experiences at other clinics I’d never feel better but Derek’s knowledge and “Magic” have really helped and given me hope to keep pursing my love of sports into my 30s! I highly recommend to anyone looking for a highly professional team that know their stuff.
Bree P.
21:07 19 Mar 24
Courtney was so insightful and professional, the gym facilities were awesome to use for rehab and reception has been so helpful and friendly. Would highly recommend this clinic and seeing Courtney!
Kristen M.
09:13 15 Mar 24
I saw Sam, the Podiatrist, who was thorough, personable and very informative. Would recommend seeing him if you have any foot pain.
Tim B.
08:50 15 Mar 24
Paul's amazing and knows exactly how to losen tight muscles. He's been treating me for a few years now and I highly recommend him.
Matt W.
08:45 15 Mar 24
I’ve been seeing Paul for over 8 years and he is easily the best massage therapist I’ve been to. Very effective and manages to find all the right trigger points. Highly recommended
Taylah T.
09:52 14 Mar 24
My experience at Errol St physio was overall excellent. Treated by Bethany, she was very thorough in assessing the injury and taking me through the exercise plan, explaining the causes of the injury and how each of the exercises will help improve strength over time. Highly recommend for anyone needing treatment!
Angelina M.
04:35 08 Feb 24
Excellent service and knowledge. Equipment is top quality and always very clean. Pleasure to attend.
Braden K.
05:02 07 Feb 24
Prompt, professional, and effective care at this service.
Nicholas B.
00:07 07 Feb 24
Shane’s the best you will find. I have been doing rehab with Shane post back surgery and he has been the most knowledgeable easy going professional I have ever dealt with! Can’t recommend Shane and his team enough!
Joseph R.
23:58 06 Feb 24
Been with Shane and the team for a while now. Best in the business is an understatement. Has helped me massively with all my rehab and strength goals.
Gordon S.
10:16 05 Feb 24
Very professional staff who assisted me with appropriate exercise and massage.
The use of the new equipment made me feel as if I was accomplishing something.
Highly recommended.
The use of the new equipment made me feel as if I was accomplishing something.
Highly recommended.
Hannah R.
06:44 25 Jan 24
What a fantastic team and top notch facility. Nice work, Life Performance. Thank you for helping me get back to my best shape.
Nick C.
04:35 17 Jan 24
I had great results working with Shane. Worked out a personalised program and explained everything in detail. Definitely recommend and will be visiting again.
Toby M.
00:38 10 Jan 24
I recently visited Life Performance Health. The staff there were super friendly and knowledgeable. They really took the time to understand my needs and create a personalised treatment plan. The facility was clean and well-equipped, making me feel comfortable throughout my sessions. Shane is very skilled and helped me recover from my injury faster than I expected. I highly recommend Life Performance Heath for anyone in need of top-notch physiotherapy care!
Stefano P.
05:56 13 Nov 23
Outstanding new sports medicine and physio clinic! Incredible and very well equipped rehab and performance set up. Great job guys!