Shockwave Therapy in Maple Ridge: What It Is, What It Treats, and What to Expect

Asana Physiotherapy • 17 June 2026

What Is Shockwave Therapy?


Shockwave therapy, formally known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that delivers high-energy acoustic waves directly to damaged tissue through the skin. The term "extracorporeal" means the waves are applied from outside the body — no needles, no surgery, no downtime.


Originally developed in the 1980s to break up kidney stones, the technology was later adapted for musculoskeletal medicine. Today it is widely used in orthopaedics, sports medicine, and physiotherapy as an evidence-based tool for chronic pain and slow-healing injuries. Both Health Canada and the FDA have approved its use for musculoskeletal conditions.


At Asana Physiotherapy in Maple Ridge, shockwave therapy is seamlessly integrated into physiotherapy assessments and treatment plans at no extra charge. It is one of several advanced technologies available to every patient as part of their standard care.


What Conditions Does Shockwave Therapy Treat?


Shockwave therapy performs best on chronic musculoskeletal conditions, particularly where connective tissue attaches to bone. These are injuries where the body's natural healing process has stalled — often because the affected area has low blood flow or has built up calcific deposits.


  • Foot and Ankle: Plantar fasciitis (heel pain), Achilles tendinopathy, heel spurs.


  • Knee: Patellar tendinopathy (jumper's knee), hamstring tendinopathy.


  • Hip: Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (hip bursitis).


  • Elbow: Lateral epicondylosis (tennis elbow), medial epicondylosis (golfer's elbow).


  • Shoulder: Calcific tendinitis of the rotator cuff, chronic rotator cuff tendinopathy.


  • Other: Shin splints, chronic neck and back muscle trigger points.


Shockwave is particularly effective for injuries that have not responded to conventional treatments like rest, NSAIDs, or standard physiotherapy exercises. If you have been managing a nagging injury for months with limited progress, shockwave therapy may be the missing piece.


How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?


The acoustic waves delivered during shockwave therapy cause a process called mechanotransduction — converting mechanical energy into biological responses at the cellular level. This triggers several healing mechanisms simultaneously.


  • Increased blood flow: Waves stimulate new blood vessel formation in the treatment area, restoring circulation to tissue that had become chronically under-supplied.


  • Collagen production: The mechanical stimulus prompts fibroblast activity, encouraging the production of new collagen to repair damaged tendons and ligaments.


  • Breakdown of calcifications: Shockwave waves break down calcium deposits that accumulate in tendons over time, clearing the way for new tissue to form.


  • Pain reduction: The treatment reduces the concentration of Substance P, a neurotransmitter that signals pain, producing an analgesic effect that can be felt within the first session.


The result is a genuine restart of the healing process — not a masking of symptoms.


How Many Sessions Do You Need?


Most patients require 3 to 5 sessions, spaced approximately one week apart. The number depends on the condition being treated, its chronicity, and how your body responds.


  • Plantar fasciitis: typically 3 to 5 sessions


  • Achilles tendinopathy: usually 3 to 6 sessions


  • Calcific shoulder tendinitis: 3 to 5 sessions, sometimes fewer if the calcification is well-defined


  • Tennis elbow: 3 to 5 sessions


Many patients report a noticeable reduction in pain and improved function within the first 1 to 3 sessions. Full results continue to develop for 6 to 12 weeks after the final session as the tissue remodels and repairs.


At Asana Physiotherapy, your physiotherapist monitors your progress at every session and adjusts the treatment plan to match your recovery.


Does Shockwave Therapy Hurt?


Shockwave therapy is not painful for most people — though you will feel something. Patients commonly describe the sensation as a firm tapping or pulsating feeling over the treatment area, a dull ache similar to deep tissue pressure, or occasional brief, intense pulses when the probe contacts a particularly sensitive spot.


Patients have described it as "a deep tissue massage," "a little jackhammer," and "it hurts so good." Discomfort is typically manageable, and your physiotherapist can adjust the intensity at any point during the session.


Immediately after treatment, you may notice mild redness, warmth, or slight swelling in the area — all normal responses that resolve within 24 to 48 hours. You do not need anesthesia, and most patients return to light activity the same day.


Is Shockwave Therapy Covered by Insurance in BC?


In British Columbia, shockwave therapy is often covered when administered as part of a physiotherapy treatment, depending on your extended health benefits plan. Many group plans from providers like Sun Life, Canada Life, Great-West Life, and Manulife cover physiotherapy sessions that may include shockwave as an integrated modality.


At Asana Physiotherapy in Maple Ridge, shockwave therapy is included in your standard physiotherapy appointment at no additional cost. You pay one session rate — whatever your insurance covers for physiotherapy applies to the full treatment, including any shockwave therapy used during your session.


This removes a barrier that exists for some, where shockwave is billed as a separate add-on fee on top of the physiotherapy cost. Asana also provides direct billing for ICBC, WorkSafeBC, and 25+ extended health insurance providers.


Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You?


Shockwave therapy suits most people with chronic musculoskeletal pain or stubborn injuries. Your physiotherapist will assess your condition and confirm whether shockwave is appropriate for your specific case.


Shockwave is typically a strong fit if your injury or pain has persisted for 6 weeks or more, you have tried rest, anti-inflammatories, or standard exercises without full resolution, imaging has identified tendinopathy, calcification, or soft tissue damage, or you want to avoid injections or surgery.


Shockwave is not appropriate for active infection or open wounds in the treatment area, blood clotting disorders or anticoagulant medication, pregnancy when treating the lower back or pelvis, or malignancy in the treatment area.


If you are unsure whether shockwave therapy fits your situation, a physiotherapy assessment at Asana Physiotherapy will give you a clear answer. Your physiotherapist will review your history, examine the affected area, and build a treatment plan designed around your recovery goals.


Get Shockwave Therapy in Maple Ridge


Asana Physiotherapy is located in Maple Ridge, BC, and offers shockwave therapy as part of every standard physiotherapy treatment — no extra fees, no referral needed. Direct billing is available for ICBC, WorkSafeBC, and most major extended health plans.


Book your appointment online at asanapt.ca/booking or call 604-773-0670.

Your Pain Symptoms Might Be Temporomandibular Disorder

by Asana Physiotherapy • 15 July 2024
Have you or someone you know had any of the symptoms below? It might be caused by disorders affecting the jaw muscles, temporomandibular joints, and related nerves. When the intricate system of muscles, bones, and joints doesn't function harmoniously, it can lead to temporomandibular disorder (TMD). The good news is no one has to live with it. At Asana Physiotherapy, we combine physiotherapy with acupuncture and high-powered laser therapy to reduce and even eliminate TMJ (temporomandibular joint) pain. TMJ pain can be debilitating, affecting your ability to eat, speak, and enjoy daily activities. Traditional physiotherapy techniques are highly effective in addressing the root causes of TMJ pain by improving joint mobility, reducing muscle tension, and enhancing overall function. When we integrate acupuncture into the treatment plan, it helps by targeting specific points to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and promote natural healing processes. 

Meet Katie: Your Virtual Coach for Mental Wellness and Empowerment

by Asana Physiotherapy • 15 July 2024
Hello! My name is Katie and I am a Registered Occupational Therapist and Coach providing life/relationship/mental health coaching services to clients virtually over Zoom. I have been an Occupational Therapist for over 23 years specializing in Mental Wellness and Empowerment. I work with adults and seniors who are looking for support in the following areas: Coping Skills; People Pleasing, Emotion Regulation; Improving Self-Confidence; Improving Relationships; Workplace and Career support; Burnout; Moving on from Toxic Relationships/Divorce/Co-parenting issues and living your best life post-Retirement. I am passionate about partnering with my clients to identify to their true needs and wants to live a more authentic, fulfilling life and build greater capacity for self-compassion, acceptance, and contentment and also enhance their resilience and ability to handle stressful situations and interpersonal challenges. My energy is warm and effervescent, and I am deeply intuitive and creative in finding solutions to challenges you may be facing. I have training in many different approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma and Resilience Informed Practice, Emotional First Aid, Brief Action Planning, Progressive Goal Attainment, and Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT). Feel free to email me at katiemahercoaching@gmail.com to chat about my services and see if we might be a good fit to work together. Looking forward to connecting with you 😊 About: From time to time we meet local business owners who are as passionate about what they do as we are. We will be profiling these exceptional individuals and their business both here and in our newsletter. Sign up for our newsletter to make sure you don't miss our next local business profile!
Winners from badminto tournament sponsored by Asana Physiotherapy

Badminton Tournament A Community Hit

by Radhika Mehta • 28 April 2024
Asana Physiotherapy recently sponsored a badminton tournament attended by a diverse level of players. The tournament was not just about sporting prowess; it was a celebration of community spirit. We are firm believers in the power of sports to unite and uplift, and ultimately foster bonds within the neighborhood. "This tournament isn't just about badminton," Radhika was quoted. "It's a testament to our commitment to the community. Through sports, we strengthen the fabric of our society, promoting not just physical health, but also mental well-being and social cohesion." Players from all walks of life, from seasoned professionals to enthusiastic beginners, took to the courts with a shared passion for the game. Each match was a display of skill, determination, and mutual respect, reflecting the ethos of Asana Physiotherapy itself – holistic wellness in action. While play was competitive, there was an underlying sense of unity, a recognition that, win or lose, everyone was part of something greater than themselves. While the winners received trophies and a prize package, everyone benefited from the bonds forged and the memories created. As a gold sponsor Asana Physiotherapy was proud to participate and our presence supports our belief that in the spirit of community, anything is possible.
Winners from badminton tournament sponsored by Asana Physiotherapy

Healing Champions: Common Sports Injuries and How Physiotherapy Can Help

by Asana Physiotherapy • 20 February 2024
Sports and physical activities are essential for a healthy lifestyle, promoting fitness, teamwork, and overall well-being. However, athletes often face the risk of injuries due to the intense nature of their training and competition. Asana Physiotherapy recognizes the importance of keeping athletes in their prime condition and specializes in the treatment and rehabilitation of various sports injuries. In this article, we will explore some of the most common sports injuries that physiotherapy can effectively heal. Strains and Sprains Description: Strains involve the overstretching or tearing of muscles, while sprains affect ligaments. These injuries commonly occur during sudden movements, improper warm-up, or overexertion. Physiotherapy Approach: Physiotherapy employs targeted exercises, stretching routines, and hands-on techniques to promote healing, reduce inflammation, and restore strength and flexibility. Runner's Knee Description: Also known as patellofemoral pain syndrome, runner's knee causes pain around the kneecap, often resulting from overuse, improper biomechanics, or muscle imbalances. Physiotherapy Approach: Physiotherapists assess the individual's gait (pattern of how you walk) foot analysis and need of Orthotics, muscle strength, and joint mechanics to develop personalized rehabilitation plans. Strengthening exercises, joint mobilization, and corrective techniques are implemented to alleviate pain and prevent recurrence. Tennis/Golfer's Elbow Description: These injuries involve inflammation or damage to the tendons in the elbow, commonly affecting athletes who repeatedly use their forearm muscles, such as tennis players and golfers. Physiotherapy Approach: Physiotherapy employs exercises to strengthen the forearm muscles, along with techniques like manual therapy ,IMS, cupping to reduce stiffness and pain . Shin Splints Description: Often experienced by runners, dancers, or athletes engaging in high-impact activities, shin splints cause pain along the shinbone due to overuse or improper footwear. Physiotherapy Approach: Physiotherapists focus on biomechanical assessment, prescribing suitable footwear, and implementing stretching and strengthening exercises to relieve pain and enhance lower limb function. ACL Tears Description: Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tears are prevalent in sports involving sudden stops, changes in direction, or direct impact to the knee. It often requires surgical intervention. Physiotherapy Approach: Pre surgery Physiotherapists can guide you on what to expect and how it will be treated after surgery. Post-surgery, physiotherapy guides patients through a comprehensive rehabilitation program, including strength training, flexibility exercises, and gradual return-to-sport protocols. At Asana Physiotherapy in Maple Ridge, we understand the unique challenges athletes face and are committed to helping them recover from common sports injuries. Our tailored physiotherapy programs aim not only to treat the immediate injury but also to prevent future occurrences, allowing athletes to return to their activities with confidence and optimal performance. If you're facing a sports injury, trust Asana Physiotherapy to be your partner in the journey towards recovery and peak athletic condition.

Asana Physiotherapy: Nurturing Health in Maple Ridge, BC

by Asana Physiotherapy • 6 February 2024
As a business owner, we are often asked why we chose Maple Ridge to operate our practice. The answer is rooted in the opportunity to heal residents while operating in a place of natural beauty offering breathtaking scenic landscapes that support a vibrant and healthy community. It's within this amazing environment that we take pride in offering a range of specialized services, including physiotherapy, dry needling, acupuncture, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) treatment, and female pelvic floor health. Since opening, Maple Ridge residents have appreciated our distinctive approach that combines treatments for optimal relief and an unwavering commitment to affordability. Comprehensive Physiotherapy Services At the heart of Asana Physiotherapy's mission is the provision of comprehensive physiotherapy services. We are equipped with the latest evidence-based techniques to address various musculoskeletal conditions, injuries, and chronic pain issues. By employing a patient-centered approach, we aim to restore function, alleviate pain, and enhance overall mobility. Dry Needling and Acupuncture in Maple Ridge Asana Physiotherapy goes beyond conventional approaches by incorporating innovative therapies such as dry needling and acupuncture into their treatment repertoire. These therapies involve the strategic insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body, promoting pain relief, improved circulation, and the activation of the body's natural healing mechanisms. In Maple Ridge, residents can access these advanced therapies at Asana Physiotherapy to experience holistic and effective pain management. TMJ Treatment Tailored for Maple Ridge Residents Recognizing the impact of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues on overall well-being, Asana Physiotherapy offers specialized treatments for residents of Maple Ridge. TMJ treatments at Asana aim to address jaw pain, headaches, and facial discomfort, providing relief and restoring optimal jaw function. Female Pelvic Floor Health in Maple Ridge As part of their commitment to addressing diverse health needs, Asana Physiotherapy prioritizes female pelvic floor health. Our specialized services cater to conditions such as pelvic pain, incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse. Residents of Maple Ridge can rely on Asana for discreet, professional, and effective solutions to enhance pelvic health. Combining Treatments for Optimal Results At Asana Physiotherapy, the philosophy is clear – combining treatments often yields the most effective results. Whether it's integrating physiotherapy with acupuncture or tailoring a treatment plan that incorporates multiple modalities, the focus is on achieving optimal outcomes for each patient. This approach distinguishes Asana Physiotherapy as a leader in delivering personalized and effective care. Affordable and Accessible Healthcare In Maple Ridge, Asana Physiotherapy stands out not only for its commitment to effective treatments but also for its dedication to affordability. The clinic understands that healthcare should be accessible to everyone, and therefore, we never charge extra for combined treatments or most recovery aids. This commitment ensures that residents of Maple Ridge can prioritize their health without financial barriers. Asana Physiotherapy is more than a healthcare provider; we are a community partner devoted to making Maple Ridge, BC, a healthier and happier place. With an array of specialized services, a commitment to combining treatments for optimal relief, and a focus on affordability, Asana Physiotherapy is shaping the healthcare landscape in Maple Ridge, empowering residents to embrace a life of wellness and vitality. For physiotherapy in Maple Ridge and acupuncture in Maple Ridge, Asana Physiotherapy stands as a trusted destination for comprehensive and compassionate care.

A Gem Of Arts In Maple Ridge

by Asana Physiotherapy • 3 January 2024
As a community Maple Ridge is rich in its abundance of activities and the arts is no exception. Nestled in the heart of our Maple Ridge community, the ACT Arts Centre stands as a vibrant cultural hub, celebrating the arts in all their forms. This February, a captivating lineup awaits, promising diverse performances that captivate and inspire. Kicking off the month is the highly anticipated Arts Club Tour: " Beneath Springhill ." This compelling production delves into the gripping tale of the 1958 mining disaster, weaving together storytelling and music in a mesmerizing theatrical experience. Music enthusiasts will be treated to the melodic sounds of Said The Whale , gracing the stage with their indie-rock vibes. Their unique blend of storytelling and infectious rhythms promises an unforgettable evening. For those seeking a different musical experience, Ventastic offers an exhilarating performance that transcends traditional genres, blending the art of ventriloquism with comedy and music, creating a show that's sure to delight audiences of all ages. Jazz aficionados won't want to miss the remarkable Champian Fulton Quartet , delivering soulful melodies and captivating rhythms that showcase the timeless allure of jazz music. Finishing the month as part of the Sunday Chamber Music Series is Triumphant Trios who will covering classical masterworks for small ensembles. At the ACT Arts Centre , February is set to be a month of artistic exploration and entertainment, where each performance promises to leave a lasting impression, creating memorable moments for all who attend. Supporting the ACT Arts Centre in Maple Ridge, BC, is a testament to fostering local cultural enrichment and artistic vitality. There are numerous ways to contribute to this thriving hub of creativity. One impactful way is through attendance—being a part of the audience for their diverse performances, exhibitions, and events not only offers enjoyment but also sustains the arts community. Additionally, volunteering time or expertise can make a significant difference, whether it's assisting with events, providing administrative support, or sharing skills in marketing or fundraising efforts. Donations and sponsorships also play a pivotal role in ensuring the sustainability and growth of the Centre, directly aiding in the development of new programs, supporting emerging artists, and enhancing the overall cultural landscape of Maple Ridge and beyond. Whether through attendance, volunteering, or financial support, each contribution to the ACT Arts Centre amplifies its impact and perpetuates a thriving cultural ecosystem.

New Website To Support Patients

by Asana Physiotherapy • 3 January 2024
Asana Physiotherapy proudly unveils its new website—a digital gateway designed to enhance your experience and journey towards optimal health. Our revamped platform embodies our commitment to seamless accessibility, empowering you to navigate our services, resources, and expertise effortlessly. Discover a user-friendly interface thoughtfully crafted to provide comprehensive insights into our personalized approach to healing. Explore detailed information about our specialized treatments, from innovative modalities to traditional therapies, all tailored to address your unique needs. Engage with our wealth of educational content, where we share insights, tips, and guidance to empower your self-care journey. Access informative articles, exercise demos, and wellness resources curated by our team of experts, all aimed at equipping you with the knowledge and tools for sustained well-being. Experience convenience at your fingertips with streamlined appointment scheduling and easy access to our dedicated team for inquiries or assistance. Our website serves as a dynamic hub connecting you to a community committed to your health and recovery.  At Asana Physiotherapy, our new website is more than a digital presence—it's an embodiment of our dedication to your well-being. We invite you to explore, engage, and embark on a transformative journey towards a pain-free, vibrant life with us. Welcome to our enhanced online home, where healing begins at the click of a button.

Combing acupuncture and physiotherapy provides relief from many types of pain

by Radhika Mehta • 3 January 2024
I often get asked why I studied both Physiotherapy and Acupuncture and how combining both in treatment is beneficial. During my early research in healing techniques and their effectiveness, both treatments stood out as complimentary to treat pain and stiffness. Acupuncture and Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) are valuable components within the realm of physiotherapy, offering unique benefits that complement and enhance traditional treatments. These specialized techniques, rooted in ancient wisdom and modern understanding of the body, hold immense therapeutic value. Acupuncture, with its strategic placement of needles along specific meridian points, taps into the body's natural healing mechanisms. It helps alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation, fostering an optimal environment for the body to heal itself. When integrated into physiotherapy, acupuncture serves as a potent addition, targeting pain points and releasing muscular tension, thereby augmenting the effectiveness of rehabilitative exercises and manual therapies. Similarly, IMS, a technique that involves inserting fine needles into tight bands of muscle, works to release chronic muscle tension and alleviate neuromuscular dysfunction. By targeting trigger points, IMS helps reset dysfunctional muscle patterns, allowing for improved movement and reduced pain. When combined with physiotherapy, IMS acts as a stimulus for enhancing muscle function, providing greater mobility, and promoting faster recovery from injuries or chronic conditions. Both acupuncture and IMS, when incorporated into physiotherapy treatments, offer a holistic approach to healing. They not only address localized pain and discomfort but also contribute to the overall restoration of balance within the body. By combining these complementary therapies with conventional physiotherapeutic techniques, patients experience a comprehensive and integrative approach to wellness, ultimately delivering optimal health and functionality sooner. For me it was important to not only combine the solutions to treat patients but also to offer them all within one treatment and at no extra cost. If you are wondering whether this treatment is right for you, reach out and let's talk.