Pickleball, softball, baseball, golf, jogging and tennis aren’t just hobbies – they’re essential to how many active adults stay fit, social and energized. These sports offer benefits such as cardiovascular health, improved coordination, mental well-being and community connection. But injuries can sideline even the most seasoned players for weeks or even months. That’s where regenerative therapy (shockwave and high energy magnetic therapy) comes in. This non-invasive, drug-free treatment is helping athletes and active adults heal faster, reduce pain, and return to the activities they love with fewer setbacks and greater long-term success.
Pickleball and tennis involve quick lateral movements, rapid arm swings and abrupt starts and stops, placing high demand on the shoulders and elbows. This is especially the case in pitchers and infielders.
Raquet sport athletes commonly face rotator cuff strains, labral tears and elbow tendonitis. Swinging, throwing and diving movements also stress the back and knees.
Common injuries include tennis elbow, shoulder impingement, plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. As one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., pickleball is seeing a surge in wrist, elbow and ankle injuries, especially in adults over 40.
Many golfers have shoulder, arm, elbow and back injuries. Rotational movements often lead to lower back strain, golfer’s elbow, wrist injuries and hip bursitis. Repetitive swinging can also cause overuse injuries in older adults.
Jogging and running can cause knee issues. Repetitive ground impact can lead to shin splints, Achilles tendinopathy, runner’s knee and plantar fasciitis. Improper footwear or imbalanced movement patterns often contribute to these conditions becoming chronic.
While ice, rest and pain relievers may offer short-term relief, they rarely address the root cause. Regenerative therapy helps when moving forward.
How it works
Shockwave therapy uses high-energy acoustic waves to trigger biological responses in damaged or inflamed tissues. These waves increase circulation, break up scar tissue, reduce inflammation and activate cells involved in tissue regeneration and bone healing.
At PhysioFit PT, three advanced technologies are combined to maximize effectiveness:
• Radial pressure wave therapy: Targets large surface areas to increase circulation and promote muscle and soft tissue recovery.
• Focused shockwave therapy: Penetrates deeper tissue to precisely treat joint pain, tendon injuries and chronic inflammation.
• High-energy magnetic therapy: Delivers electromagnetic pulses deep into joints and connective tissue, boosting bone regeneration and cellular repair. This multi-layered approach ensures that both superficial and deep musculoskeletal injuries are effectively addressed.
Regenerative therapy is most effective when paired with physical or occupational therapy. This combination enhances posture, mobility, and biomechanics, reducing strain and preventing reinjury.
Kim Gladfelter is owner of PhysioFit Physical Therapy & Wellness in Los Altos. To learn more, call (650) 887-6046 or visit physiofitpt.com.
