Musculoskeletal · Canada
Shockwave vs physiotherapy: what's the difference?
The short answer
Shockwave vs physiotherapy is a comparison of two different approaches: shockwave is a device-based treatment that sends acoustic waves into a painful area, while physiotherapy uses guided exercise and hands-on care. MAMBA Men's Clinics in Canada offers OrthoSpec shockwave, and many men use it alongside their physiotherapy.
In this article
Key takeaways
- Shockwave is device-based, and physiotherapy is exercise and hands-on based.
- MAMBA offers OrthoSpec shockwave, not physiotherapy.
- Many men use shockwave alongside an existing physio program.
- Your clinician maps a shockwave plan at a complimentary consult.
What is the difference in shockwave vs physiotherapy?
The main difference in shockwave vs physiotherapy is the method. Shockwave uses a device to send acoustic waves into a painful area, while physiotherapy uses guided exercise, movement and hands-on care.
Both are common topics for men with tendon or joint pain. They are not competing choices so much as different tools, and many men use both.
How do shockwave and physiotherapy compare side by side?
Shockwave and physiotherapy compare most clearly on who provides them and how a visit looks. The table covers the practical side only.
| Feature | Shockwave | Physiotherapy |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Device-based acoustic wave treatment | Guided exercise and hands-on care |
| Who provides it | Clinic team using a shockwave device | A registered physiotherapist |
| Your role between visits | Mostly in-clinic care | Home exercise program |
| Offered at MAMBA | Yes, OrthoSpec shockwave | No |
What is OrthoSpec shockwave at MAMBA?
OrthoSpec shockwave is the device MAMBA uses for musculoskeletal concerns like heel, elbow and tendon pain. It is non-invasive, with no needles or incisions.
MAMBA also uses a separate device, the Medispec OmniSpec ED-1000, for focused shockwave care for ED. Learn more on the OrthoSpec shockwave therapy page, or read about shockwave for plantar fasciitis.
Can shockwave and physiotherapy be used together?
Yes, many men use shockwave alongside an existing physiotherapy program. Each one covers a different part of the picture.
- Men already in physio who want to add a device-based option.
- Men with long-standing tendon pain in the heel, elbow or shoulder.
- Active men who want to stay in their sport or training.
- Men who prefer a non-invasive option before other injections.
How does MAMBA plan shockwave for tendon and joint pain?
MAMBA plans shockwave at a complimentary consult, where a clinician looks at your pain, activity and any physio you already do. The visit plan is personal.
Participating clinics are in Oshawa, in Durham Region, and Kitchener, in Waterloo Region. Services and equipment differ by clinic. You can start virtually from anywhere in Ontario, as long as you are physically in Ontario during the visit.
How do I book a complimentary consult with MAMBA?
You can book online, or by phone or text at 647-947-0605. Many men start with the free MAMBA Health Score, which takes about 2 minutes.
Take the MAMBA Health Score, or choose the optional $1 virtual consultation for a personalized plan. Treatments start at $99.
Frequently asked questions
Does MAMBA offer physiotherapy?
MAMBA Men's Clinics does not offer physiotherapy. MAMBA offers OrthoSpec shockwave, PRP for musculoskeletal concerns and joint pain injectables at participating Canada clinics, and many men use these alongside physiotherapy from their own physiotherapist.
Is shockwave a type of physiotherapy?
Shockwave is a device-based treatment, while physiotherapy is a profession built on exercise and hands-on care. Some physiotherapy clinics offer shockwave, and MAMBA Men's Clinics offers OrthoSpec shockwave as its own service.
Is shockwave covered by OHIP?
Shockwave for musculoskeletal concerns is generally not insured by OHIP, so most men pay privately. MAMBA Men's Clinics can give you a written itemized quote for OrthoSpec shockwave before any treatment begins.
Do I need a referral for shockwave at MAMBA?
A referral is not needed to book OrthoSpec shockwave with MAMBA Men's Clinics. Men can take the free MAMBA Health Score or book a complimentary consult online, by phone or by text at 647-947-0605.
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