What is SoftWave therapy?
SoftWave is a brand of extracorporeal shockwave therapy: acoustic waves are delivered from outside the body through a handheld applicator placed against the skin. Its electrohydraulic technology generates broad-focused waves. Treatment does not involve an incision or injection.
SoftWave may be considered to help manage pain as part of an individualized treatment plan. The appropriate use, expected benefit, and treatment settings depend on your diagnosis and health history. It is a different service from the chiropractic Torque Release Technique offered in our office.
How is SoftWave different from other shockwave treatments?
SoftWave uses broad-focused electrohydraulic acoustic waves. Radial pressure-wave devices, which are also commonly advertised as “shockwave,” generate and distribute energy differently. The terms are not interchangeable descriptions of the same device. Ask which technology a practice uses when comparing treatment options.
Our service is SoftWave therapy. A different delivery technology does not by itself establish that one treatment is best for every patient; your diagnosis and evaluation guide the choice.
Concerns to discuss at your evaluation
Our SoftWave service information highlights the following concerns. This is a starting point for a conversation, not a promise that SoftWave is appropriate or effective for every condition.
Foot and ankle
Plantar fasciitis and heel pain, Achilles tendinopathy, hallux rigidus (stiffness of the big-toe joint), and Morton’s neuroma symptoms.
Knee and lower leg
Knee pain, jumper’s knee (patellar tendon pain), shin splints, hamstring pain, and overuse injuries.
Back, shoulder, and elbow
Musculoskeletal back pain, shoulder pain, and elbow pain. The underlying cause of your symptoms matters when choosing treatment.
Soft-tissue concerns
Scar-related discomfort and fascial tightness can be discussed during an evaluation. Your provider will explain whether treatment is suitable.
Stress fractures, fracture non-unions, foot ulcers, and Osgood-Schlatter disease require particular medical assessment and may need specialist care or coordination. Please call to discuss these concerns before booking SoftWave; treatment availability and suitability must be confirmed. References to fascial release or acupuncture points describe treatment approaches or areas, rather than separate diagnoses.
What happens at an appointment?
- Evaluation first. Discuss your symptoms, health history, and goals with your provider.
- A personalized recommendation. Review whether SoftWave is suitable, possible benefits and risks, alternatives, and costs.
- Treatment, when appropriate. Gel and a handheld applicator are used over the selected area. Sensation and tolerance vary; tell your provider if you feel discomfort.
- Reassessment. Your response guides follow-up care and any activity recommendations.
SoftWave questions
Is SoftWave guaranteed to work?
No. Outcomes and evidence vary by condition and treatment protocol. Your provider will discuss realistic expectations and other options; improvement or a particular number of sessions cannot be guaranteed.
Can it be part of a physical therapy plan?
It may be considered alongside other appropriate care following an evaluation. Learn about Frank Shenko and physical therapy services.
Is treatment suitable for everyone?
No. Your provider needs to review your medical history, medications, and the treatment area first. Discuss pregnancy, bleeding problems, blood-thinning medication, and any active medical conditions before treatment. Temporary soreness, redness, or bruising can occur.
Does insurance cover SoftWave?
Coverage differs by service and plan. Do not assume that chiropractic or physical therapy coverage includes SoftWave. Call our office to confirm the fee and your coverage before scheduling.
Learn more about the technology
SoftWave’s manufacturer website explains the device technology. Regulatory clearances apply to specific devices and uses; they do not mean every condition listed here is an approved indication or that a particular outcome is assured.
For an individual evaluation in Doylestown, call 215-345-4323.