Shockwave: An Introductory Guide for Pelvic and Sexual Health
Presented by Stacey Roberts
12-Month Subscription
Unlimited access to:
- Thousands of CE Courses
- Patient Education
- Home Exercise Program
- And more
Shockwave therapy is an emerging treatment modality with growing application in pelvic and sexual health, yet its mechanisms and clinical use remain underutilized or misunderstood in this field. This introductory course equips physical therapists with foundational knowledge about shockwave therapy, including its physiological effects, device types, and applications across diverse pelvic health conditions. Clinicians will learn to differentiate between true shockwave and radial pressure wave devices, explore relevant research and case-based evidence, and compare shockwave therapy with other modalities such as ultrasound, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and Botox. The course also outlines safety considerations and contraindications to guide responsible implementation. Ideal for pelvic health practitioners working in outpatient, urology, and women’s and men’s health settings, this course supports informed integration of shockwave therapy into evidence-based practice.
Learning Objectives
- Define the fundamental principles of shockwave therapy, including its mechanisms of action, and distinguish it from other therapeutic modalities
- Identify the key differences between true shockwave therapy and radial pressure wave devices in the context of pelvic and sexual health
- List the physiological effects of shockwave therapy on pelvic and perineal tissues, including its role in promoting healing, reducing pain, and improving function
- Recognize evidence-supported indications for shockwave therapy in addressing pelvic pain, vulvodynia, and sexual health conditions based on recent case studies and research
- Highlight how shockwave therapy may be integrated into treatment approaches to support participation in meaningful daily activities (such as toileting, and sexual activity) affected by pelvic and sexual health conditions
Meet your instructor
Stacey Roberts
Stacey Roberts is a highly accomplished physical therapist and nurse with over three decades of clinical experience specializing in outpatient orthopedics, sports medicine, and women’s health. A pioneer in integrated care, Stacey owned and operated a specialized clinic on Australia’s Gold Coast for 13 years, where she began…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Fundamentals of Shockwave Therapy
This chapter introduces the origins, mechanisms, and medical evolution of shockwave therapy, highlighting its unique effects on soft tissue healing and pain modulation. Clinicians will learn how shockwave therapy interacts with pelvic tissues through mechanical, chemical, and biological pathways and will explore the differences between device types, including high- and low-intensity options. This foundational knowledge supports clinical decision-making in pelvic and sexual health practice.
2. True Shockwave vs. Radial Pressure Wave Therapy
This chapter breaks down the key distinctions between true shockwave therapy and radial pressure wave (RPW) devices, focusing on physics, depth of penetration, and therapeutic outcomes. Clinicians will review research comparing the efficacy of both approaches in treating pelvic and sexual dysfunction. Understanding these differences ensures proper device selection and enhances treatment precision.
3. Clinical Applications for Shockwave in Pelvic and Sexual Health
Clinicians will explore evidence-based applications of shockwave therapy for pelvic and sexual health concerns, including dyspareunia, incontinence, erectile dysfunction, chronic pelvic pain, and prostatitis. This chapter presents current research and clinical guidelines, including American Urological Association (AUA) recommendations, to help providers identify appropriate indications, tailor treatment to anatomy and pathology, and optimize patient outcomes.
4. Shockwave Safety, Comparison to Other Modalities, and Contraindications
This chapter reviews safety protocols, universal contraindications, and manufacturer-specific precautions for the use of shockwave therapy in pelvic health. It also compares shockwave therapy with other interventions such as ultrasound, PRP, Botox, and dry needling. By positioning shockwave within the broader therapeutic landscape, clinicians can make informed decisions about multimodal care plans.
