Shockwave first visit
$75
- Consultation
- Exam
- First shockwave therapy treatment
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave Therapy for Tennis Elbow, Achilles and Shoulder Pain in Carlsbad
For active Carlsbad adults, stubborn tendon pain in the elbow, Achilles or shoulder can sideline tennis, golf, running or surfing. Here is where shockwave therapy fits and how to start with the $75 special.
Dr. Peter Thompson, DC Published October 9, 2026 Updated October 14, 2026 6 min read
Carlsbad has no shortage of tennis courts, golf courses, running paths and surf breaks. That also means a steady stream of elbows, Achilles tendons and shoulders that stay sore long after the original strain.
Our earlier article on shockwave for back, knee and heel pain covered the lower body. This one focuses on three other tendon problems we often see, and how shockwave fits into a plan. Pickleball players can read our guide to pickleball elbow treatment and prevention.
Ready to get checked? See our shockwave therapy in Carlsbad page or the new patient special offers.
Quick answer
Shockwave therapy delivers acoustic pulses into a painful tendon through a handheld applicator. It is commonly used for tennis elbow, Achilles tendon pain and rotator cuff tendon pain that has lasted weeks or months. At our Carlsbad office, new patients can start with the $75 Shockwave Special, which includes a consultation, exam and first shockwave treatment.
Key takeaways
- Start with the $75 New Patient Shockwave Special: consultation, exam and first shockwave treatment.
- Tennis elbow: used for pain on the outer elbow that has not settled with rest.
- Achilles: used for tendon pain above the heel, alongside calf loading exercise.
- Shoulder: used for rotator cuff tendon pain, alongside strengthening.
- An exam comes first, because not every tendon problem is a fit.
Why tendon pain can linger
Tendons connect muscle to bone and have a limited blood supply, so irritation can be slow to settle. According to MedlinePlus, tendon problems are often linked to overuse and repeated motion.
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
Rest alone may calm symptoms, but pain often returns when you get back to your sport. That is where a plan combining treatment and gradual loading can help.
Elbow, Achilles and shoulder: how shockwave is used
Each area has its own pattern and its own exercise focus. Here is a general overview.
| Area | Common problem | How shockwave is used |
|---|---|---|
| Elbow | Tennis or golfer's elbow | Applied to the sore tendon at the outer or inner elbow, alongside grip and forearm loading |
| Achilles | Achilles tendinopathy | Applied to the tendon above the heel, alongside calf strengthening |
| Shoulder | Rotator cuff tendon pain | Applied to the sore tendon at the top or side of the shoulder, alongside cuff strengthening |
What a shockwave visit is like
Most people feel a strong tapping sensation. It can be tender over the sorest spot, and intensity can be adjusted during treatment. Many patients return to normal activity the same day.
Learn more on our shockwave therapy page or read how much shockwave therapy costs.
- Consultation about your sport, work and symptoms
- Exam to confirm the tendon involved
- First shockwave treatment if it is a good fit
- A written plan with loading exercises for home
Shockwave may not be right if you have
A recent injury with swelling or bruising, a suspected tendon tear, a suspected fracture, numbness or weakness in the arm or leg, or a blood clotting condition. Tell your clinician at your exam.
Getting started in Carlsbad
Our Carlsbad office at 2623 Gateway Rd #104 in Bressi Ranch offers same-day appointments when available. See shockwave therapy in Carlsbad 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.
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.
Is shockwave therapy used for tennis elbow?
Yes. It is commonly used for tennis elbow that has not settled with rest, usually alongside forearm strengthening.
Can shockwave help Achilles tendon pain?
Shockwave is often used for Achilles tendinopathy, paired with calf loading exercise. A suspected tear needs medical evaluation first.
Is shockwave therapy used for shoulder pain?
It is used for some rotator cuff tendon problems, alongside strengthening. An exam confirms whether it is a fit for your shoulder.
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
Most people feel a strong tapping sensation that can be tender over the sorest spot. The intensity can be adjusted.
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.
Related services
Related conditions
Related articles
