Shockwave Therapy in South Tampa (Focused + Radial ESWT)
Non-surgical care for stubborn heel pain and tendon injuries—using a Curamedix shockwave system with both focused (focal) and radial therapy.
If you’re dealing with chronic heel pain, Achilles tendon pain, or a tendon injury that just won’t settle down, shockwave therapy may be a smart next step—especially when rest, stretching, ice, inserts, or basic physical therapy hasn’t been enough.
At Bayshore Podiatry Center in South Tampa, Dr. James E. Repko, DPM, DABPM and Dr. Saleena Niehaus, DPM, DABPM provide extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) for chronic foot and ankle conditions. Our approach is straightforward: we confirm the diagnosis, we match the treatment to the tissue, and we build a plan that helps you recover while reducing the chance of recurrence.
Why Tampa Bay Patients Choose Our Shockwave Therapy:
✓ Board-certified expertise with 8 years of proven results
✓ Focused shockwave along with radial pressure therapy for deeper, more targeted healing
✓ Integrated protocols combining shockwave with radial pressure therapy, PRP, MLS laser and orthotics
Schedule Your Shockwave Consultation Today
What Is Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)?
Shockwave therapy uses acoustic energy (sound waves) to stimulate a healing response in chronically irritated tissue. The goal is to help the body restart repair processes in tissue that has become “stuck,” irritated, or slow to recover—common in chronic tendon and soft-tissue injuries.
Shockwave therapy is:
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Non-surgical
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Non-invasive
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Typically minimal downtime
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Often used when symptoms have persisted despite standard conservative care
Why We Use Both Focused and Radial Shockwave (Not Just One)
Chronic pain is rarely just one isolated spot. When you’ve been limping, shifting weight, or changing your gait for weeks or months, you often develop secondary overload in nearby structures.
That’s why we use a Curamedix shockwave system that provides both:
Focused (Focal) Shockwave
Focused shockwave targets deeper, more localized tissue pathology with precision. It’s useful when the primary problem is clearly identified and we want more targeted energy delivery.
Radial Shockwave
Radial shockwave treats a broader area and can be helpful for surrounding tissues and supporting structures that are irritated due to compensation patterns.
In plain terms: focused shockwave helps us treat the source, and radial shockwave helps us treat the support system around it. We use both strategically based on your exam findings and diagnosis—not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Conditions We Commonly Treat With Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave is not the right tool for every diagnosis—but when it fits, it can be very useful for chronic tendon and soft-tissue pain.
Common conditions we evaluate for shockwave therapy include:
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Plantar fasciitis / chronic heel pain
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Achilles tendinopathy
- Foot/Ankle Arthritic Conditions
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Other chronic tendon and soft-tissue injuries of the foot and ankle (case-dependent)
If shockwave is not appropriate for your condition, we’ll tell you directly and recommend a better plan.
What a Shockwave Session Is Like
Most appointments are straightforward:
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We confirm the target tissue and treatment plan
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We deliver shockwave therapy (focused and/or radial depending on the goal)
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We review what to do between sessions so progress builds, not stalls
What it feels like: You may feel discomfort or pressure during treatment, but most patients tolerate it well. We adjust settings based on the tissue being treated and your comfort level.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
The right number depends on the diagnosis, chronicity, and tissue quality. Many appropriate candidates do best with a short series.
We’ll give you a clear recommendation after your evaluation, including:
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Expected treatment timeline
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What improvement typically looks like week-to-week
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What to do between sessions to support results
Shockwave Therapy Pricing
We keep pricing simple and transparent:
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Single session: $199
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Package (6 sessions): $995 (best value)
Shockwave therapy is often considered a non-covered service by many insurance plans. We’ll review your options clearly before you begin.
What Improves Results
Shockwave works best when it’s part of a complete plan—not a standalone “one and done” treatment.
Depending on the diagnosis, we may include:
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Load management guidance (so you don’t re-irritate the tissue)
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Strength and mobility progressions
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Footwear and activity recommendations
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Orthotics when medically appropriate
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In select cases, MLS laser therapy as a supportive modality
Our goal is not just to reduce pain. It’s to help you return to activity with a plan that keeps you there.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Shockwave?
You may be a good candidate if you have:
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Chronic heel or tendon pain that hasn’t improved with basic conservative care
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A diagnosis that matches known shockwave-responsive tissue patterns
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A goal of avoiding surgery and returning to activity safely
You may not be a great candidate if:
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The pain pattern suggests a nerve-driven source
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The injury is acute and better treated with short-term immobilization or rest
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Imaging and exam suggest a different primary driver that shockwave won’t address
We’ll walk you through that decision clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between focused and radial shockwave?
Focused shockwave is designed to target deeper, more localized pathology with precision. Radial shockwave treats a broader region and is often used to address surrounding tissues and supporting structures affected by compensation.
Why do you use both at Bayshore Podiatry Center?
Because chronic foot and ankle pain is rarely just one spot. Treating only the “point of pain” can miss the surrounding overload that keeps symptoms going. We treat the source and the support system.
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
It can be uncomfortable, but it’s typically tolerable. We adjust intensity based on your sensitivity and the tissue being treated.
When will I feel better?
Some patients feel improvement early, but shockwave is designed to stimulate a healing response that builds over time. We’ll give you a realistic timeline based on your diagnosis.
Is there downtime after treatment?
Most patients have little to no downtime, but activity recommendations depend on the diagnosis and tissue status. We’ll tell you exactly what to do.
Is shockwave therapy a replacement for rehab?
Usually no. Shockwave tends to work best when paired with a plan addressing load, strength, mobility, and contributing biomechanics.
Schedule a Shockwave Consultation in South Tampa
If you’re dealing with stubborn heel pain or tendon pain and you want a non-surgical plan that’s diagnosis-driven and evidence-based, we can help.
Patient Success Stories from Tampa Bay
Case Study: Chronic Plantar Fasciitis
A 42-year-old MacDill AFB serviceman suffered from plantar fasciitis for over 18 months, limiting his physical training. Our protocol combining focused shockwave with custom orthotics eliminated his pain within 6 weeks, allowing him to return to full military duties.
Case Study: Achilles Tendinopathy Recovery
A competitive pickleball player from Hyde Park had chronic Achilles pain that ended her tournament participation. Through our integrated approach using shockwave therapy, MLS laser, and activity modification, she returned to competitive play within 3 months.
The Science Supporting Our Approach
Evidence-Based Treatment
Our shockwave protocols are supported by extensive research demonstrating:
- Tissue regeneration through growth factor stimulation
- Pain reduction via nerve modulation and endorphin release
- Improved circulation through neovascularization
- Calcification breakdown in chronic tendon conditions
Why Focused Technology Matters
"The research clearly shows focused shockwave provides superior outcomes compared to radial systems," explains Dr. Repko. "The ability to precisely target deep tissues while controlling energy delivery makes all the difference in treatment success."
Clinical Outcome Data
Studies consistently show:
- 70-80% success rates for chronic plantar fasciitis
- 80-90% improvement in Achilles tendinopathy
- Significant pain reduction in 85% of tennis elbow cases
- Enhanced bone healing in stress fracture non-unions
Safety and Considerations
Excellent Safety Profile
- FDA-approved technology with extensive safety data
- Non-invasive treatment - No surgical risks
- Minimal side effects - Temporary discomfort or mild swelling
- No downtime required - Immediate return to activities
When Shockwave May Not Be Appropriate
- Pregnancy - We use alternative treatments
- Active infections - Treated after infection resolves
- Bleeding disorders - Requires medical clearance
- Pacemakers - Near the treatment area
- Malignancy - In the target region
"Patient safety is always our priority," emphasizes Dr. Niehaus. "We carefully screen all candidates to ensure appropriate treatment selection."
Insurance and Investment Information
Coverage Options
- Many insurance plans do not cover shockwave therapy for chronic conditions
- Workers' compensation often provides coverage
- Auto insurance may cover accident-related injuries
- HSA/FSA eligible - Use pre-tax dollars
Treatment Investment
Individual sessions begin at $199, with most patients requiring 3-6 treatments. Package pricing available for multiple sessions.
"We provide transparent pricing and help patients understand their coverage options before beginning treatment," notes Dr. Repko.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How painful is shockwave therapy? A: Most patients describe it as tolerable discomfort during treatment. The intensity can be adjusted based on your comfort level, and any discomfort typically subsides quickly after the session.
Q: How soon will I see results? A: Based on our experience, many patients notice improvement after 2-3 sessions, but maximum benefits often occur 6-12 weeks after completing the treatment series.
Q: Can I combine shockwave with other treatments? A: Absolutely. We frequently combine shockwave with MLS laser therapy, custom orthotics, or regenerative injections for enhanced results.
Q: How does focused shockwave compare to radial shockwave? A: Focused shockwave penetrates deeper and delivers more precise energy to the target tissue, resulting in superior outcomes for chronic conditions.
Q: Are there any activity restrictions after treatment? A: Generally no. We actually encourage normal activities as tolerated. Avoiding high-impact activities for 24-48 hours may be recommended for some conditions.
Q: What makes your shockwave therapy different? A: Our 8 years of experience, board-certified expertise, and integrated treatment approach combining shockwave with other advanced therapies sets us apart from other providers.
Schedule Your Focused Shockwave Consultation
Don't let chronic pain control your life. Our focused shockwave therapy, backed by 8 years of clinical experience and thousands of successful treatments, offers proven relief for stubborn injuries that haven't responded to traditional therapies.
Ready to Break the Pain Cycle?
Contact Bayshore Podiatry Center to schedule your comprehensive evaluation with our board-certified podiatrists. Discover why Tampa Bay residents choose us for advanced, effective shockwave therapy.
📞 Call: (813) 877-6636
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📍 Convenient South Tampa Location
⚡ Same-day appointments available
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Serving Tampa Bay including Hyde Park, Davis Islands, MacDill Air Force Base, and surrounding communities.
