PRP vs. Shockwave Therapy Near Me: Which Delivers Better Results?
- Nate Oliveira
- Apr 2
- 3 min read
If you’ve been typing “shockwave therapy near me” into Google while battling stubborn shoulder pain or plantar fasciitis, you’re not alone. As more people look for non-invasive, drug-free treatments for chronic pain, two therapies often come up: PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and Shockwave Therapy (ESWT). But which one actually works better?
Let’s dive into how they work, what the research says, and how you can choose the best treatment near you—including if you’re searching for Sacramento shockwave therapy.

The Basics of PRP Therapy
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy uses a concentrated form of your own blood’s platelets—those tiny cells that help your body heal. In this treatment, a small blood sample is drawn, spun in a centrifuge, and the platelets are injected back into the injured area.
PRP has become a go-to for:
Tendon injuries (like rotator cuff tears)
Knee and joint pain
Ligament sprains
Plantar fasciitis
The goal is to stimulate your body’s natural healing process, reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair. While results may take a few weeks to appear, PRP is well-known for its long-term tissue regeneration benefits.
How Shockwave Therapy Works
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) may sound intimidating, but it's a quick, non-invasive option, and effective option. This therapy uses acoustic waves (sound energy) to trigger regeneration in damaged tissues. No needles, no surgery.

Here’s why people are choosing shockwave therapy near me:
Quick sessions (often 10–20 minutes)
Non-invasive with minimal discomfort
Stimulates blood flow and collagen production
Ideal for chronic tendinitis, heel pain, and calcific shoulder issues
It’s particularly effective for plantar fasciitis, making it a popular search for those looking up plantar fasciitis treatment near me.
Case Study Insights: Which Therapy Works Best?
A recent study published in the Journal of Personalized Medicine sheds light on this exact comparison. The research involved patients with partial rotator cuff tears, divided into two groups:
One received PRP injections alone
The other received PRP plus Shockwave Therapy
Key Takeaways:
Both groups improved, but the combo group had faster and greater gains in flexibility, especially shoulder abduction and forward flexion.
After 6 months, the Shockwave + PRP group showed superior improvement in overall range of motion (SROM).
Biologically, this combo also reduced inflammatory markers (like S100A8 and S100A9), suggesting shockwave therapy helps tame inflammation better than PRP alone.
In short? Shockwave therapy offers quicker, early-stage relief, while PRP is more about long-term tissue regeneration. Together, they’re a power duo.
How to Choose a Shockwave Therapy Provider Near Me
Looking for quality shockwave therapy near me? Here’s what to check:
Credentials: Are the providers certified in ESWT? Do they specialize in musculoskeletal therapy?
Technology: Not all machines are created equal—ensure they use FDA-approved devices.
Experience: Clinics offering PRP and shockwave together often have more expertise in integrative pain treatment.
Reviews: Look for patient success stories, especially those involving plantar fasciitis treatment near me.
Location: If you’re in California, Sacramento shockwave therapy clinics are increasingly offering this dual approach.
Final Verdict: PRP vs. Shockwave Therapy
So, what’s the best option for you?
Go with PRP if you’re able to take a longer period of down-time and truly give the injured area a rest (as in 3-5 weeks). This is one of the major considerations when injecting PRP.
Opt for Shockwave Therapy if you want faster pain relief and enhanced mobility in the short term. It will be able to promote tissue remodeling immediately and help improve your tolerance to movement and working out, with no down time.
Combine Both for the best of both worlds—according to research, this combo offers the strongest clinical results.
Always consult with a specialist before starting treatment. Your condition, goals, and timeline all matter when choosing the right path.

FAQs About Local Shockwave Therapy
Is shockwave therapy safe?
Yes! It’s non-invasive and typically has minimal side effects like slight discomfort or redness.
How long does it take to see results?
Many patients feel relief within 1–3 sessions, but full benefits may take a few weeks.
Is it covered by insurance?
Some plans cover ESWT, especially when prescribed by a physician. Always verify with your provider.
Can it treat plantar fasciitis?
Absolutely. It’s one of the most effective plantar fasciitis treatments near me according to current studies.
Where can I find a provider near me?
Start by searching “shockwave therapy near me” or narrowing it to “Sacramento shockwave therapy” if you’re local. Look for clinics with great reviews and combined PRP/ESWT services.
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