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Shockwave Therapy in St. Louis
West End Chiropractic & Rehab Center offers D.A.R.T. extracorporeal shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, shoulder pain and other stubborn muscle and tendon problems. It is non-invasive and drug-free, with no needles or incisions. Dr. Michael Gerdine, DC, provides it at 4255 Laclede Avenue in the Central West End. No referral needed.
Some pain just won't quit. You've rested, stretched, iced, bought new shoes, and the heel pain or sore tendon is still there every morning. Shockwave therapy is designed for exactly these stubborn soft-tissue problems. It gives patients another conservative option to try before injections or surgery.
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) uses acoustic pressure waves delivered through the skin to the area that hurts. "Extracorporeal" simply means the waves come from outside the body. A handheld applicator is placed over the painful tissue, and the waves are directed into that spot. ESWT is generally described as a way to stimulate the body's own healing response in tissue that has stalled. That fits Dr. Gerdine's long-held philosophy that the power that made the body heals the body. West End Chiropractic uses the D.A.R.T. shockwave system.
Signs Shockwave Therapy May Be Right for You
- Heel pain that is worst with your first steps in the morning (a classic sign of plantar fasciitis)
- Tendonitis that flares with activity, such as in the shoulder, elbow or around the knee
- Shoulder pain that limits reaching, lifting or sleeping on that side
- A muscle or tendon problem that has lingered for weeks or months despite rest
- You want to avoid or delay injections or surgery
- You're an active person or athlete who wants to stay moving while you recover
Conditions We Use Shockwave For
Plantar Fasciitis
Shockwave is a widely used non-surgical option for stubborn heel and arch pain caused by an irritated plantar fascia.
Tendonitis
Persistent tendon pain in the shoulder, elbow, knee or ankle that hasn't settled with rest alone.
Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain related to irritated tendons and soft tissue, often paired with adjustments and rehab exercises.
Stubborn Muscle Pain
Chronic musculoskeletal pain that hasn't responded to other care, including some back and neck cases. See neck & back pain.
Knee Pain
Shockwave can complement knee decompression and sports rehab for tendon-related knee pain such as patellar tendinitis.
Sports Injuries
Combined with sports rehabilitation in our on-site rehab center to help athletes return to training.
What to Expect at a Shockwave Session
- Exam first. Dr. Gerdine listens to your history and examines the area to confirm shockwave is appropriate.
- Targeting. The painful spot is located and a gel is applied so the applicator glides over the skin.
- Treatment. You will feel a rhythmic tapping or pulsing. The intensity can be adjusted for comfort.
- After. Most people go right back to their day. Mild soreness in the area afterward is possible.
- Series and support. Shockwave is usually given as a series of sessions, often alongside stretching, strengthening and chiropractic care.
Shockwave vs. Injections vs. Surgery
| Shockwave therapy (D.A.R.T.) | Non-invasive and drug-free. No needles or incisions. Usually a short series of sessions with little or no downtime. |
|---|---|
| Cortisone injections | Medication injected to reduce inflammation. Some people prefer to limit how often they receive them. |
| Surgery | Generally reserved for cases that don't respond to conservative care; involves recovery time. |
| Rest, stretching and inserts | A sensible first step. Shockwave is often considered when these haven't been enough. |
Why Choose West End Chiropractic for Shockwave Therapy
- Dr. Gerdine has been a licensed chiropractor since 1999, with 26+ years of experience
- Recognized as one of St. Louis's Top Doctors
- A former athlete who understands active patients and sports injuries
- Shockwave, chiropractic, acupuncture, spinal decompression and rehab under one roof
- Convenient to Midtown, Forest Park, University City and Clayton
- Walk-ins welcome; same-day appointments often available
Hurt in a crash? Read about car accident care, whiplash treatment and sciatica treatment, or browse all services. You can also meet Dr. Gerdine.
Shockwave Therapy for Athletes
Watch Dr. Gerdine treat Princeton football player Joseph Harris with acoustic shockwave therapy, and hear why he trusts West End Chiropractic with his recovery.
Shockwave Therapy FAQs
What is shockwave therapy?
Shockwave therapy, also called extracorporeal shockwave therapy or ESWT, uses acoustic pressure waves delivered through the skin to an area of pain. It is non-invasive and drug-free, with no needles or incisions. West End Chiropractic uses the D.A.R.T. shockwave system.
Does shockwave therapy work for plantar fasciitis?
Shockwave therapy is a widely used non-surgical option for plantar fasciitis and may help many patients whose heel pain has not improved with rest, stretching or inserts. Results vary from person to person. Dr. Gerdine will examine your foot and tell you honestly whether it is a good fit.
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
Most patients describe a tapping or pulsing feeling that can be uncomfortable over sore spots but is usually tolerable. The intensity can be adjusted during the session. Some people notice mild soreness in the area afterward.
How many shockwave sessions will I need?
Shockwave therapy is usually given as a series of sessions rather than a single visit. The exact number depends on your condition, how long you have had it and how you respond. You will get a realistic plan after your exam.
How much does shockwave therapy cost in St. Louis?
Pricing varies with the area being treated and the number of sessions in your plan. Call (314) 361-4650 for current pricing. The office is primarily cash-based and can explain your options before you begin.
Is shockwave therapy covered by insurance?
West End Chiropractic is primarily a cash-based practice. The office also accepts personal injury and auto accident cases. Call (314) 361-4650 to ask how your treatment would be handled.
Is shockwave therapy better than a cortisone injection?
They work differently. Injections aim to reduce inflammation with medication, while shockwave therapy is a drug-free, non-invasive option that targets the irritated tissue directly. Many patients choose to try shockwave and other conservative care before injections or surgery.
What conditions does shockwave therapy treat?
At West End Chiropractic, shockwave therapy is used for plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, shoulder pain and other stubborn muscle and tendon problems. It is often combined with chiropractic care and rehab. An exam determines whether it suits your condition.
Hear From Our Patients
Tired of Pain That Won't Go Away?
Let's find out whether shockwave therapy is the right next step for you.