Home / Treatments / Rehabilitation & Manual Therapy / Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)

Pain & rehab · 체외충격파 치료

Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) in Gangnam

Acoustic pulses aimed at chronic tendon pain such as plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow and calcific shoulder. Usually 3 to 5 weekly sessions of about 10 minutes.

Quick facts
  • Korean name: 체외충격파 치료
  • Procedure time: 10 to 15 minutes
  • Anesthesia: None
  • Sessions: 3 to 6 sessions about 1 week apart
  • Downtime: None; tenderness for 1 to 2 days
  • Results: Improvement usually builds over 4 to 12 weeks after the last session
  • Lasts: Often long-lasting if loading and footwear issues are also addressed
  • Typical price: ₩70,000–₩175,000 (per session at clinic level (HIRA 2026 median to maximum))

What is Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)?

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) sends high-energy sound pulses into painful tendons and their attachments. It is widely used in Korean orthopedic and rehab clinics for tendon problems that have not settled with rest and exercise.

Each session is short, needs no anesthesia, and you can walk out and continue sightseeing.

How it works

The therapist finds the most tender point, often with ultrasound, applies gel and delivers about 1,500 to 3,000 pulses through a handpiece. Radial devices spread energy over a wider, shallower area. Focused devices concentrate energy deeper, for example on shoulder calcium deposits. The pulses are thought to stimulate healing and reduce pain signalling.

Who it suits

  • Plantar fasciitis lasting over 3 months
  • Tennis or golfer's elbow
  • Calcific tendinitis of the shoulder
  • Achilles and patellar tendinopathy

Who should skip it or wait

  • Pregnancy
  • Bleeding disorders or blood thinners (discuss first)
  • Treatment over open growth plates, tumors or infection
  • Acute injuries in the first few weeks

Side effects and risks

  • Pain during treatment
  • Redness, swelling or small bruises
  • Temporary flare of symptoms
  • Rare tendon rupture when used on badly degenerated tendons

Aftercare

  • Avoid anti-inflammatory painkillers for 48 hours if your clinic advises
  • Skip intense running or racket sports for 48 hours
  • Continue stretching and strengthening exercises
  • Use supportive shoes for plantar fasciitis

Planning around your trip

Sessions are a week apart, so a 2 to 3 week stay fits a typical course; otherwise ask for a home clinic referral letter.

Rehabilitation & Manual Therapy clinics near Apgujeong

  • Dasom Pain Clinic (다솜마취통증의학과의원)
    Rehabilitation, 6 min walk from Sinsa Station
  • Seyeon Pain Clinic (세연마취통증의학과의원)
    Rehabilitation, 1 min walk from Sinsa Station

Last reviewed October 2026. General information only, not medical advice. A doctor confirms what suits you at consultation.

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) price in Apgujeong

₩70,000–₩175,000
per session at clinic level (HIRA 2026 median to maximum)

Typical range at clinics around Apgujeong, Sinsa and Cheongdam, checked 2026-10. Source: SBS Biz, 3 Sept 2026, on HIRA non-covered fee disclosure. Cosmetic treatments in Korea carry 10% VAT; ask whether a quote includes it.

Full Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) price breakdown →

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) questions

Does shockwave therapy hurt?

It is uncomfortable, especially over the most tender spot. The therapist can lower the intensity and build up over the session.

How many shockwave sessions for plantar fasciitis?

Most protocols use 3 to 5 sessions a week apart. If there is no change after 5, the diagnosis and plan are usually reviewed.

Focused or radial: which one do I need?

Radial suits broad, shallow areas like the heel or elbow. Focused reaches deeper targets such as shoulder calcifications and usually costs more per session.

Can I walk around Seoul after a session?

Yes. Normal walking is fine. Avoid long runs or hikes for a day or two if the area feels sore.

What does HIRA data say about prices?

In September 2026 HIRA reported a clinic-level median of KRW 70,000 per session and a maximum of KRW 175,000. Package deals for 5 or 10 sessions are common.

Is it the same shockwave as for kidney stones?

No. Kidney stone lithotripsy uses a much higher energy focused machine. Musculoskeletal ESWT uses lower energy devices.

Plan your visit

Get a quote before you fly

Send the treatment, your dates and any past procedures. We reply in English with options, prices and clinic locations near Apgujeong Station.