Shockwave therapy vs physio exercises for runner’s knee: which works better?
For most runner’s knee, a physiotherapy-led exercise and load plan is the main treatment and works well on its own. Shockwave therapy is an add-on that is mainly considered for stubborn tendon pain below the kneecap (patellar tendinopathy) that has not improved after a few months of exercise.
Physio exercises
- First-line treatment for runner’s knee and knee tendon pain
- Strengthens hips, quads and calves to share the load
- Adjusts your running volume, cadence and hills
- Gives you tools to prevent it coming back
Focused Shockwave therapy
- Used mainly for stubborn patellar tendon pain
- Short sessions, usually about a week apart
- Works best alongside an exercise plan, not instead of it
- Not usually the first choice for pain behind the kneecap
Which should you choose?
Start with an assessment. Your practitioner will confirm what is causing the pain and tell you whether exercise alone is enough or whether shockwave is worth adding.
Book physiotherapy or Focused Shockwave therapy at our Gloucester clinic. Related: why does my knee hurt when running?