What is shockwave therapy and how does it work for pain relief?

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses targeted acoustic waves to stimulate blood flow, break down scar tissue, and support the body’s natural healing response. It is commonly used to treat chronic pain conditions such as shoulder pain, knee pain, back pain, plantar fasciitis, and sports injuries.

Does shockwave therapy hurt?

Most patients experience mild discomfort during treatment, especially in sensitive areas, but sessions are typically quick and well tolerated. Any discomfort usually decreases as treatment progresses.

How many shockwave therapy sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies based on your condition and severity. Many patients begin to notice improvement within 3–5 treatments, with continued progress over time.

How long does each shockwave therapy session take?

Sessions are typically quick, lasting between 10–20 minutes depending on the treatment area and condition being addressed.

Is there any downtime after shockwave therapy?

There is little to no downtime. Most patients can return to normal daily activities immediately after treatment.

When will I see results from shockwave therapy?

Some patients notice improvement after the first few sessions, while others experience gradual relief over several weeks as healing continues.

Is shockwave therapy safe?

Yes, shockwave therapy is considered a safe and non-invasive treatment when performed by trained professionals. It is widely used in physical therapy settings.

Is shockwave therapy covered by insurance?

Shockwave therapy is typically not covered by insurance, but many patients choose it because it offers a non-invasive option without the need for insurance approval. Affordable payment options are available to make treatment accessible.

Elbow Pain Physical Therapy

Personalized treatment plans designed to reduce elbow pain, restore movement, and get you back to the activities you love — from the tennis court to the pickleball court.

Common Elbow Conditions We Treat

Elbow pain can happen for many reasons, including repetitive motion, overuse, sports activity, and everyday strain. At UnLock Physical Therapy in Lafayette and Abbeville, treatment plans are designed to reduce pain, improve mobility, and help you return to normal activity safely and confidently.

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Tennis
Elbow

Pain on the outside of the elbow from repetitive gripping or racquet sports may limit strength and daily movement.

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Golfer's
Elbow

Pain on the inside of the elbow from repetitive swinging or gripping motions may affect strength and comfort.

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Pickleball Elbow

A fast-growing overuse injury among pickleball players, causing pain, weakness, and discomfort during play.

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Elbow Tendon Pain

Irritated elbow tendons may cause discomfort during gripping, lifting, training, or everyday movement.

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Elbow Stiffness

Stiffness and reduced elbow mobility may make lifting, reaching, or straightening the arm more uncomfortable daily.

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Sports Injuries

Repetitive motion from sports or training may affect elbow strength, stability, and recovery during activity.

When Should You See a Physical Therapist for Elbow Pain?

You should consider getting evaluated if your elbow pain keeps returning, limits your grip strength, causes stiffness, or affects your game or daily routine. Early treatment may help prevent the issue from becoming more serious over time.

Many patients come to us looking for non-invasive options before considering injections or surgery. Physical therapy may help improve movement, reduce pain, and support long-term recovery depending on the cause of the issue.

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Physical therapist evaluating a college athlete's elbow pain during a physical therapy session in Lafayette and Abbeville, LA

Physical therapist providing hands-on elbow pain treatment during a physical therapy session in Lafayette and Abbeville, LA

Treatment Options for Elbow Pain

Every patient is different, which is why treatment should be personalized. At UnLock Physical Therapy, your care plan is designed around your symptoms, activity level, sport or hobby, and recovery goals.

Treatment options may include exercise therapy, hands-on manual therapy, dry needling, Class IV laser therapy, mobility training, and shockwave therapy when appropriate. The goal is to improve movement, reduce pain, and help prevent the problem from returning.

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Personalized Elbow Pain Treatment Plans

At UnLock Physical Therapy, treatment plans are built around your symptoms, activity level, sport or hobby, and recovery goals. Our approach focuses on reducing pain, improving mobility, and helping you move confidently again.

✔ Evaluation & Movement Assessment

✔ Personalized Treatment Plans

✔ Progressive Rehab & Strength Training

✔ Hands-On Manual Therapy

✔ Dry Needling & Laser Therapy

✔ Education to Help Prevent Future Pain

The goal is not just temporary relief, but long-term movement, recovery, and confidence during daily activity.

Can Physical Therapy Help You Avoid Surgery?

In some cases, yes. Many patients come to us looking for ways to avoid elbow surgery with physical therapy before considering more invasive procedures.

Depending on the cause of the pain, physical therapy may help improve strength, mobility, movement quality, and overall elbow function. Every patient is different, which is why a proper evaluation is important.

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Physical therapist discussing non-surgical elbow pain treatment options with a patient in Lafayette and Abbeville, LA

Shockwave therapy treatment for chronic elbow pain at UnLock Physical Therapy in Lafayette and Abbeville, LA

Shockwave Therapy for Elbow Pain

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that may help reduce pain and support healing in stubborn or slow-to-heal areas. It is commonly used as part of a physical therapy plan for chronic tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, and other tendon-related elbow pain.

At UnLock Physical Therapy in Lafayette and Abbeville, shockwave therapy may be combined with exercise, hands-on therapy, and mobility work to support recovery and improve movement.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Elbow Pain Physical Therapy

Learn more about elbow pain treatment, physical therapy options, and what to expect during recovery at UnLock Physical Therapy.

What's the difference between tennis elbow and golfer's elbow?

Tennis elbow causes pain on the outside of the elbow. Golfer's elbow causes pain on the inside. Both come from repetitive strain and may improve with physical therapy.

Why am I suddenly getting elbow pain from pickleball?

Pickleball's fast paddle swings and quick turns can strain the same tendons as tennis and golfer's elbow. This is common for new players or players coming back after time off.

When should I see a physical therapist for elbow pain?

See a physical therapist if elbow pain limits your grip, your game, your work, or your day. Early care may help stop symptoms from getting worse.

What treatments are used for elbow pain?

Treatment may include guided exercise, hands-on therapy, and mobility work. It may also include dry needling, laser therapy, and shockwave therapy.

Can I keep playing pickleball or tennis while treating elbow pain?

It depends on how bad your pain is. A check-up can help you know what to change, if anything, while you heal.

Do I need a referral for physical therapy?

In many cases, patients can schedule a physical therapy evaluation directly. Insurance requirements may vary depending on your specific plan or provider.

Where are you located?

UnLock Physical Therapy has locations in Lafayette and Abbeville, Louisiana, serving active adults, athletes, and individuals dealing with elbow pain and mobility issues.

Who We Help

We help active adults, pickleball and tennis players, and golfers. We also help anyone dealing with elbow pain, sore tendons, or a sports injury.

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Lafayette

Abbeville

Elbow Pain Physical Therapy