Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in Houston, but with that growth comes a surge in elbow injuries.
Many players try rest, braces, or injections with limited success. If your elbow pain keeps returning when you play, the issue is usually tendon damage, not simple inflammation.
As Houston’s Sports Shockwave MD, I help pickleball and tennis players recover from chronic elbow pain using non-surgical shockwave therapy designed to stimulate tendon healing and speed recovery.
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy uses acoustic energy waves to stimulate the body’s natural healing response. Unlike medications or injections that only reduce symptoms, shockwave therapy targets the root of the problem - damaged tendon tissue.
The treatment helps by:
- Increasing blood flow to the injured tendon
- Stimulating collagen repair
- Breaking down scar tissue
- Restarting the healing process
For pickleball players dealing with persistent elbow pain, this can be a game changer.
What Does Shockwave Treatment Feel Like?
Shockwave sessions typically last 5 to 10 minutes. Patients feel rhythmic pulses over the injured area, similar to a deep tapping sensation. While there can be mild discomfort during treatment, most patients tolerate it well, and intensity can be adjusted for comfort.
After treatment, there is no downtime. You can return to normal activities the same day, although heavy gripping or intense play may be temporarily limited to allow healing.
How Many Treatments Are Needed?
Most pickleball players need three to six sessions, spaced about one week apart.
Many patients notice:
- Reduced pain after the first or second session
- Improved grip strength within a few weeks
- Return to play within four to six weeks
Results vary depending on how long the injury has been present and the severity of tendon damage.
What Does Shockwave Therapy Cost in Houston?
Shockwave therapy is considered an advanced regenerative treatment and is not typically covered by insurance.
However, many patients find it more cost-effective than months of physical therapy, injections, or lost playing time.
Packages are often available for athletes and recreational players seeking faster recovery.
Why Early Treatment Matters
The longer tendon injuries persist, the harder they become to treat. Early intervention helps prevent chronic degeneration, prolonged downtime, and compensatory injuries in the shoulder or wrist.
As Houston’s Sports Shockwave MD, my focus is on helping athletes heal the tendon properly so they can return to the court safely and confidently.
When to Consider Shockwave Therapy
You may benefit from shockwave therapy if your elbow pain:
- Lasts longer than four to six weeks
- Returns every time you play pickleball
- Limits grip strength or daily activities
- Has not improved with rest or bracing
A proper evaluation ensures the treatment is appropriate and tailored to your specific injury.
Get Back to Pickleball Without Surgery
If pickleball elbow is keeping you off the court, you don’t have to settle for long-term pain or invasive procedures.
Shockwave therapy offers a non-surgical solution designed to stimulate healing and restore function.
If you’re looking for expert care from Houston’s Sports Shockwave MD, early treatment can help you return to play faster and avoid chronic tendon damage.
