Blog post by Haresh R (B.SC Physiotherapy)
Breaking the Cycle of Chronic Pain: Why We Use DolorClast® Radial Shockwave Therapy
As physiotherapists, we often see patients who feel they’ve tried everything—rest, ice, stretches, and even injections—yet their pain persists. If you’re struggling with a stubborn injury like plantar fasciitis or a long-term tendon issue, you may have reached a “plateau” in your recovery.
That is where DolorClast® Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) comes in. It isn't just another “feel-good” treatment; it is a scientifically-backed tool designed to jump-start your body’s natural healing response.
What is DolorClast® Radial Shockwave Therapy?
Radial Shockwave Therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy acoustic (sound) waves to treat musculoskeletal conditions. Unlike other machines that might only offer surface-level vibrations, the EMS Swiss DolorClast® system uses compressed air to accelerate a projectile within a handpiece. When this projectile hits the applicator, it sends powerful energy waves deep into your tissues.
How Does It Actually Work?
It works through a process called mechanotransduction, where physical energy triggers biological changes. Here is the 2026 update on how it helps you heal:
Pain Relief: The shockwaves deplete “Substance P,” a chemical messenger that transmits pain signals to your brain. This provides an immediate analgesic effect for many patients.
Increased Blood Flow: The therapy promotes “neovascularization”—the formation of new blood vessels—which brings fresh oxygen and nutrients to damaged areas.
Tissue Regeneration: By creating controlled “microtrauma,” it stimulates stem cells and increases collagen production to repair old, scarred, or degenerated tissue.
Breaking Down Calcifications: It can even help dissolve calcium build-up in tendons, such as in calcific rotator cuff tendonitis.
What Can We Treat?
We use DolorClast® RSWT to treat a wide variety of conditions, particularly those that have lasted longer than three months:
Feet: Plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy.
Knees: Patellar tendinopathy (Jumper’s knee) and knee osteoarthritis.
Hips: Trochanteric bursitis and gluteal tendinopathy.
Upper Limb: Tennis/Golfer’s elbow, calcific shoulder tendonitis and rotator cuff tendinopathy.
Lower Leg: Shin splints (medial tibial stress syndrome).
Lower Back: Chronic lower back pain
Why We Specifically Choose DolorClast®
Not all shockwave machines are created equal. We use the Swiss DolorClast® because research shows it delivers up to 200% more energy density than competing devices at high frequencies. For you, this means better clinical outcomes and fewer sessions required to see results—typically just 3 to 5 treatments.
What to Expect in Your Session
Sessions are fast, usually lasting only 5 to 10 minutes.
We locate the area of pain through palpation.
We apply a coupling gel to ensure the sound waves travel efficiently into your skin.
The handpiece is moved over the area. You will feel a strong “tapping” or “pulses”. While it can be slightly uncomfortable, it is generally well-tolerated, and we can adjust the intensity to your comfort level.
How to get in touch with us?
Ready to get back to the activities you love? If you’re ready to move beyond managing symptoms and start addressing the root cause of your pain, contact us at 08 9497 7027 to see if DolorClast® Shockwave Therapy is right for you.