Shockwave first visit
$75
- Consultation
- Exam
- First shockwave therapy treatment
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave Therapy for Back, Knee and Heel Pain in Oceanside
Shockwave therapy is best known for plantar fasciitis heel pain, but it is also used for knee tendon pain and stubborn back muscle pain. Here is who it fits and what a visit looks like in Oceanside.
Dr. Peter Thompson, DC Published October 9, 2026 Updated October 9, 2026 6 min read
Patients at our Oceanside office often ask whether shockwave therapy can help a heel that hurts with the first steps of the morning, a knee that aches on stairs, or a back that stays tight no matter what they try.
This guide explains where shockwave fits for each of those areas, what a visit feels like, and how to start with the $75 Shockwave Special at our office on Vista Way.
Ready to get checked? See our shockwave therapy in Oceanside page or the new patient special offers.
Quick answer
Shockwave therapy sends sound wave pulses into sore tendons and muscle tissue through a handheld applicator. It is most often used for plantar fasciitis heel pain, knee tendon pain such as patellar tendinopathy, and stubborn back muscle tension. At our Oceanside office, new patients can start with the $75 Shockwave Special, which includes a consultation, exam and first treatment.
Key takeaways
- Start with the $75 New Patient Shockwave Special: consultation, exam and first shockwave treatment.
- Heel: shockwave is commonly used for plantar fasciitis that has not settled with rest and stretching.
- Knee: it is used for tendon pain around the kneecap, such as patellar tendinopathy.
- Back: it can target tight, tender muscle tissue alongside chiropractic care and exercise.
- An exam comes first, because shockwave is not a fit for every cause of pain.
What shockwave therapy is
Shockwave therapy uses a handheld applicator that delivers quick pulses of acoustic energy into the sore area. It is non-invasive, needs no needles or medication, and each session usually takes only a few minutes.
Chiropractic first visit
$49
- Consultation
- Full exam and movement screen
- First chiropractic treatment
New patients only. Same-day first treatment when appropriate. Personal injury and auto accident claims are billed on lien instead. Available at both offices. See details
It is most useful for tendons and soft tissue that have stayed painful for weeks or months. Learn more on our shockwave therapy page.
Heel, knee and back: where shockwave fits
Each area responds differently, so your plan depends on your exam. Here is how shockwave is commonly used for each one.
| Area | Common problem | How shockwave is used |
|---|---|---|
| Heel | Plantar fasciitis | Applied to the sore spot under the heel, alongside calf and foot stretching |
| Knee | Knee tendon pain, such as patellar tendinopathy | Applied to the tendon below the kneecap, alongside strengthening exercise |
| Back | Stubborn lower back muscle pain | Applied to tight, tender muscle tissue, alongside chiropractic care |
What a shockwave visit is like
Most people feel a strong tapping sensation during treatment. It can feel tender over the sorest spot, and the intensity can be adjusted as you go.
Many patients go straight back to normal activity afterward. Your clinician will explain how many sessions to expect and what to do between visits.
- Consultation about your pain and history
- Exam to confirm the source of pain
- First shockwave treatment if it is a good fit
- A written plan with home exercises
Shockwave may not be right if you have
A recent injury with swelling, a suspected fracture, numbness or weakness spreading down a leg, or a blood clotting condition. Tell your clinician about any of these at your exam.
Getting started in Oceanside
Our Oceanside office at 2530 Vista Way, Suite P offers same-day appointments when available. See shockwave therapy in Oceanside for office details.
New patients can start with the $75 New Patient Shockwave Special, which includes a consultation, exam and first shockwave treatment. We accept HSA, FSA and CareCredit. Curious about ongoing costs? Read how much shockwave therapy costs.
Frequently asked questions
What does the $75 Shockwave Special include?
The $75 New Patient Shockwave Special includes a consultation, exam and first shockwave therapy treatment at our Oceanside or Carlsbad office.
Can shockwave therapy help plantar fasciitis heel pain?
Shockwave is commonly used for plantar fasciitis that has not settled with rest and stretching. An exam confirms whether it is a good fit for your heel.
Is shockwave therapy used for knee pain?
Yes, mainly for tendon pain around the kneecap, such as patellar tendinopathy. It is usually paired with strengthening exercise.
Can shockwave help back pain?
It can target tight, tender back muscle tissue as part of a plan that also includes chiropractic care and exercise. It is not used for every type of back pain.
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
Most people feel a strong tapping sensation that can be tender over the sorest spot. The intensity can be adjusted during treatment.
Same-day appointments
Talk to a doctor about your case
Get an exam, a diagnosis, and a written plan — two North County offices, treatment on lien for injury cases.
DP
Written by
Dr. Peter Thompson, DC
Doctor of Chiropractic
Dr. Peter Thompson is a doctor of chiropractic at Pacific Spine & Rehab, which has offices in Oceanside and Carlsbad (Bressi Ranch). He writes about back and neck pain, sports injuries, shockwave therapy, and recovery after auto accidents.
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