Ibuprofen, Ice, and Rest After Shockwave Therapy: Questions for Your Clinician

Advice about anti-inflammatories, ice, and rest after shockwave varies. Here are the questions to ask so your aftercare matches your plan.

Short answer: ask your treating clinician. Many shockwave protocols advise avoiding anti-inflammatory medications and ice right around treatment because of a theoretical concern about dampening the tissue response, but evidence on this is limited. Never stop a prescribed medication without talking to the prescriber.

Anti-Inflammatory Medications

NSAIDs like ibuprofen relieve pain but have their own risks. MedlinePlus lists ibuprofen precautions. Ask whether acetaminophen is a better option for you around sessions.

Ice

Ice can ease soreness. Some clinicians suggest skipping it immediately after treatment; ask what fits your protocol.

Rest and Activity

Total rest is rarely needed. Many patients continue normal activity while avoiding big jumps in intensity. Research on aftercare is limited; see PubMed.

Questions for Your Clinician

• Should I avoid ibuprofen or ice, and for how long?
• What can I take for soreness?
• What activities are fine, and which should I scale back?
• When should I call about pain?

The Mayo Clinic covers general tendon self-care.

See Pain After Shockwave Therapy and contact us with aftercare questions.