Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy in Uijeongbu, Korea

Focused acoustic energy (IN-520 device) delivered through the skin to stimulate healing in chronic tendon and fascia pain, with no needles and no downtime.

In short: Focused acoustic energy (IN-520 device) delivered through the skin to stimulate healing in chronic tendon and fascia pain, with no needles and no downtime.

What is Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy?

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy sends pulses of acoustic energy into painful tendons, fascia and their bony attachments. The energy increases local blood flow, breaks down calcific deposits and stimulates tissue repair, while also reducing pain signalling. Yonsei Leaders uses an IN-520 shockwave device, and Dr. Ji is a member of the Korean Society for Shockwave Therapy.

At a glance

• Type: Physical therapy
• Korean name: 체외충격파
• Performed or prescribed by: Dr. Ji Seung-hun, neurosurgeon
• Where: Yonsei Leaders Neurosurgery Clinic, 1 minute from Balgok Station Exit 2, Uijeongbu

How it works, step by step

1. The painful spot is identified by examination or ultrasound.
2. Gel is applied and the applicator placed on the skin.
3. A set number of pulses (for example 2,000–6,000) is delivered over about 10–20 minutes.
4. You walk out and continue normal daily activity.

Conditions it is used for

• Plantar Fasciitis: Sharp heel pain with the first steps in the morning, caused by overload of the thick band under the foot.
• Calcific Tendinitis of the Shoulder: Calcium deposits in the shoulder tendons causing sudden, severe shoulder pain, often treated effectively with shockwave therapy.
• Tennis Elbow: Pain on the outside of the elbow from overused forearm tendons, common in office workers, cooks and parents as well as racket players.
• Golfer's Elbow: Pain on the inside of the elbow from overuse of the tendons that bend the wrist and fingers.
• Achilles Tendinopathy: Pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon at the back of the heel, common in runners and hikers.
• Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy and Tear: Damage to the shoulder's stabilising tendons causing pain and weakness lifting the arm, especially overhead.
• Outer Hip Pain: Pain on the outer side of the hip from irritated gluteal tendons and bursa, often worse lying on that side.

Benefits

• Non-invasive, no needles
• No downtime
• Effective for chronic tendon problems
• Can break down calcium deposits

Recovery and aftercare

Mild redness or soreness may occur for a day. Avoid strenuous use of the treated area for 48 hours.

How many sessions will I need?

Typically three to six sessions about one week apart.

Cost and insurance

Non-covered: 2,000 pulses ₩40,000–80,000; 3,000 ₩80,000–100,000; 4,000 ₩100,000–120,000; 5,000 ₩120,000–140,000; 6,000 ₩140,000–160,000; 10,000 ₩180,000–250,000; 13,000 ₩250,000–300,000. Fees are confirmed with you before treatment. See the full price and insurance guide.

Book: call 031-874-7500. Yonsei Leaders Neurosurgery Clinic, 3F Yugyeong Bldg II, 181 Hoeryong-ro, Uijeongbu, Korea, 1 minute from Balgok Station Exit 2. Open Mon–Fri 09:00–20:00, Sat 09:00–14:00. See directions and international patient help.

Frequently asked questions