Am I a Candidate for Shockwave Therapy? Free Self-Assessment
Shockwave therapy (also called ESWT or EPAT) works best for specific problems — usually chronic tendon and soft-tissue pain that hasn’t responded to rest, stretching, or other treatment. This quick self-assessment, built by Dr. Rob Letizia, PT, DPT, walks you through the same screening questions we use in the clinic in Wayne, NJ. It takes about a minute and gives you a straight answer on whether shockwave is likely to help — and what to do next.
This tool is educational and is not a diagnosis. A brief in-person evaluation is the only way to confirm candidacy.
What actually makes someone a good shockwave candidate?
In our Wayne, NJ clinic, four things drive whether shockwave therapy is likely to help:
- The problem is a tendon or soft-tissue issue — plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, tennis/golfer’s elbow, patellar tendinopathy, calcific rotator cuff tendinitis, and trochanteric (outer hip) pain respond best.
- It’s been going on a while — pain lasting more than 3 months tends to respond better than a brand-new injury.
- Conservative care hasn’t fully solved it — if rest, stretching, orthotics, or injections haven’t given lasting relief, shockwave is often the next logical step.
- There are no safety contraindications — pregnancy, blood-clotting disorders or blood thinners, active infection or cancer at the site, or an implanted device near the area all need an in-person check first.
The most important point: shockwave works best as part of a plan, not as a standalone zap. Dr. Rob combines it with hands-on manual therapy and targeted loading — which is why outcomes here tend to beat a machine-only approach. Learn more about shockwave therapy at our Wayne, NJ clinic.
Frequently asked questions
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
Most people describe it as a strong tapping or thumping sensation that’s very tolerable. Intensity is adjustable, and it’s dialed to your comfort during treatment.
How many sessions will I need?
Most tendon conditions respond within 3–6 weekly sessions, though this depends on the condition, how long you’ve had it, and how it’s progressing. Dr. Rob will give you a realistic estimate at your assessment.
Is shockwave covered by insurance?
Shockwave/ESWT is typically self-pay, while your standard physical therapy is usually covered by insurance. We’ll go over exact costs before anything begins — no surprises.
Is this quiz a diagnosis?
No. It’s an educational screening based on the same criteria we use clinically. Only an in-person evaluation can confirm whether shockwave is right for you.