Still dealing with foot or ankle tendon pain that won’t go away? If rest, stretching, shoe changes, or physical therapy haven’t solved the problem, you’re not alone—and you’re not out of options.

At New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute in Albuquerque, we offer shockwave therapy as a proven, non-surgical treatment for chronic foot and ankle tendinitis. Our goal is straightforward: to help your tendon heal properly so you can return to living and moving without constant pain.

The Problem: Chronic Tendon Pain Doesn’t Just “Calm Down”shockwave

Most patients we see with foot or ankle tendinitis have already tried to do the right things. The frustration comes when pain lingers for months—or keeps returning as soon as activity increases.

Here's the truth: Many chronic tendon problems are no longer inflammatory. They're degenerative and under-healed.

That's why:

  • Ice and anti-inflammatories stop helping
  • Pain flares as soon as you're back on your feet
  • You feel stuck between "living with it" and "having surgery"

Neither is a great option. That's where shockwave therapy makes a difference.

How Shockwave Therapy Treats Tendinitis at the Source

Shockwave therapy (also called Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy or ESWT) uses targeted acoustic energy to stimulate the body’s natural healing response in damaged tendon tissue.

At our Albuquerque foot and ankle clinic, shockwave therapy works by:

  1. Improving blood flow to chronically injured tendons that have poor circulation
  2. Restarting the healing process in degenerated tissue that has stalled
  3. Supporting healthier tendon remodeling with stronger, better-organized fibers
  4. Reducing persistent pain signaling in hypersensitive nerve pathways

This is not pain masking. It's about helping the tendon recover biologically.

Shockwave therapy delivers controlled sound waves through the skin to the injured tendon—no injections, no incisions. These acoustic pressure waves:

  • Increase circulation in tissue with poor blood supply
  • Trigger the release of healing growth factors
  • Encourage stronger, better-organized tendon fibers
  • Break down problematic calcium deposits
  • Calm hypersensitive pain pathways
  • Stimulate formation of new blood vessels

Because genuine tissue healing takes time, improvement happens progressively, typically over several weeks to months.

Conditions We Treat with Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is most effective for chronic foot and ankle tendon conditions. At New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute, we successfully treat:

Chronic Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Pain

Persistent heel pain that hasn't responded to stretching, orthotics, or rest. Shockwave therapy has a 75-90% success rate for chronic plantar fasciitis, helping most patients avoid surgery.

Achilles Tendinitis and Tendinopathy

Pain in the Achilles tendon, especially morning stiffness or pain after activity. Both insertional (where tendon meets heel) and mid-substance Achilles pain respond well to ESWT.

Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction

Pain along the inside of the ankle and arch, often associated with flatfoot collapse. Shockwave therapy can reduce inflammation and support tendon healing.

Peroneal Tendon Pain

Discomfort along the outside of the ankle and foot, common in athletes with ankle instability or after ankle sprains.

Insertional Tendon Problems

Pain where tendons attach to bone around the ankle or heel, including conditions with calcium deposits or bone spurs.

Shockwave Therapy vs. Other Tendinitis Treatments

Comparison of Treatment Options

Shockwave Therapy

  • Healing mechanism: Stimulates tissue regeneration
  • Downtime: Minimal; same-day activity
  • Duration of relief: Long-lasting, often months to years
  • Success rate: Approximately 80–90% for chronic conditions

Cortisone Injections

  • Healing mechanism: Temporarily reduces inflammation
  • Downtime: 1–2 days
  • Duration of relief: Temporary, typically weeks to months
  • Success rate: Variable; repeated use may increase risk of tissue weakening

Physical Therapy Alone

  • Healing mechanism: Strengthens and stretches affected tissue
  • Downtime: None
  • Duration of relief: Requires ongoing maintenance
  • Success rate: Around 60–70% for chronic cases

PRP Therapy

  • Healing mechanism: Uses growth factors to promote healing
  • Downtime: 1–2 weeks
  • Duration of relief: Long-lasting
  • Success rate: Approximately 70–80%; typically higher cost

Surgery

  • Healing mechanism: Repairs or removes damaged tissue
  • Downtime: 6–12 weeks
  • Duration of relief: Permanent when successful
  • Success rate: Approximately 85–95%; highest risk and cost

Is Shockwave Therapy Right for Your Tendinitis?

Ideal Candidates for ESWT Treatment

Shockwave therapy may be right for you if:

  • You've had foot or ankle tendon pain for 6+ weeks
  • Conservative treatments (rest, PT, orthotics) haven't provided lasting relief
  • Pain is localized to a specific tendon or attachment point
  • You want to avoid injections or surgery if possible
  • You need a treatment that fits your work and lifestyle
  • You're committed to following activity guidelines during treatment

We often see excellent results in active adults, healthcare workers, runners, hikers, and people who spend long hours on their feet throughout Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, and surrounding New Mexico communities.

When Shockwave Therapy May Not Be Recommended

We value integrity over selling treatments. Shockwave therapy may not be appropriate if:

  • There is a significant tendon tear or rupture requiring surgical repair
  • Pain is coming from a fracture or stress fracture rather than tendinitis
  • The issue is primarily nerve-related (numbness, burning, electrical pain)
  • You have blood clotting disorders or take anticoagulant medications
  • There is active infection in the treatment area
  • Another treatment is clearly more effective for your specific condition

If shockwave isn't right for you, we'll tell you—and guide you toward a better solution. Our goal is always your best outcome, not just providing a service.

What to Expect During Treatment at Our Albuquerque Clinic

Shockwave therapy is performed in-office and usually takes only a few minutes per session.

Most patients:

  • Do not need anesthesia
  • Can return to normal daily activities the same day
  • Experience mild soreness that resolves quickly

We also provide guidance on footwear, activity modification, and tendon-loading strategies to maximize results. Shockwave therapy works best as part of a complete, thoughtful plan.

What Kind Of Results Can You Expect?

While every case is different, many patients notice:

  • Reduced pain sensitivity after early treatments
  • Gradual improvement in function over weeks
  • Continued progress as the tendon remodels

This is not an overnight fix—but for the right patient, it can be a powerful alternative to surgery.

FAQs on Shockwave Therapy

How many shockwave therapy sessions will I need?

Many patients complete a short series of treatments. The exact number depends on the tendon involved, how long symptoms have been present, and tissue quality.  Most patients do a minimum of three weekly sessions for best results and the average patient does a series of six weekly treatments.

Does shockwave therapy hurt?

It can be uncomfortable during treatment, but most patients tolerate it well. We adjust the settings to match your sensitivity while still delivering an effective treatment.

How soon will I feel results?

Some people notice improvement early, but the best results typically build over several weeks to months as tendon tissue remodels and heals.

Is shockwave therapy covered by insurance?

Coverage varies by plan. Our team can help you understand your benefits and out-of-pocket expectations.

Can shockwave therapy help plantar fasciitis?

Yes—shockwave therapy is commonly used for chronic plantar fascia pain, especially when basic treatments haven’t worked but also works great for acute cases as first line treatment.

Can shockwave therapy help Achilles tendinitis?

Yes—shockwave therapy is commonly used for chronic Achilles tendinopathy, particularly when symptoms persist despite rest, stretching, and physical therapy.

Who should not get shockwave therapy?

Some medical situations may not be appropriate. We screen for contraindications and confirm your diagnosis to ensure shockwave is a good fit.

Why Choose New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute?

We believe patients deserve:

  • Clear explanations, not vague promises
  • Evidence-based recommendations
  • Respect for their time, goals, and lifestyle
  • Treatment plans designed for long-term success

Our team is known throughout Albuquerque and New Mexico for professional, compassionate, and diligent care. Shockwave therapy is one of several advanced non-surgical options we use to help patients heal—not just cope.

Ready To Find Out If Shockwave Therapy Is Right For You?

The first step is a proper diagnosis. Once we understand the true source of your pain, we can help you decide whether shockwave therapy—or another option—is the best path forward.

Schedule an evaluation at New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute today and take the next step toward lasting relief from foot and ankle tendon pain.

Nathan Ivey
Nathan Ivey
Experienced Albuquerque podiatrist specializing in preventing and treating foot and ankle pain.
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