Is SoftWave Therapy Safe?

Is SoftWave Therapy Safe? Many patients ask, “Is SoftWave Therapy Safe?” before beginning treatment for chronic pain or injuries. At Everybody’s Chiropractic Center in Upper Darby, PA, we explain the facts about safety, FDA clearance, potential side effects, and what you can expect before starting treatment.

Additionally, Softwave Therapy is not only FDA-cleared, but it’s also backed by clinical research and trusted by top medical institutions, athletes, and physical therapists across the country.

What Is SoftWave Therapy?

SoftWave Therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic waves to stimulate cellular repair, increase blood flow, and reduce inflammation.  Doctors and chiropractors use SoftWave Therapy to treat conditions including:

  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Shoulder pain and rotator cuff issues
  • Knee and hip pain
  • Tendonitis
  • Back and neck pain
  • Sports injuries

Furthermore, learn more about our SoftWave Therapy Upper Darby treatment options.

Is SoftWave Therapy FDA-Approved?

SoftWave Therapy uses FDA-cleared technology to treat pain and inflammation in musculoskeletal tissues. The FDA has strict standards for clearing medical devices, meaning the technology has been evaluated for safety and its intended use. As a result, patients can feel confident that the technology meets established regulatory standards.

Additionally, at Everybody’s Chiropractic Center, we use SoftWave TRT (Tissue Regeneration Technologies) devices that are specifically designed to meet these standards. The same technology is also used by major medical centers, research hospitals, and professional sports organizations around the world.

Furthermore, organizations such as the Mayo Clinic have highlighted the growing role of shockwave therapy in treating musculoskeletal conditions.

Why Is SoftWave Therapy Considered Safe?

Furthermore, many healthcare professionals consider SoftWave Therapy one of the safest regenerative treatments available. Here’s why:

  • Non-invasive: No needles, no incisions, and no surgical risks.
  • Drug-free: It does not require the use of pain medications or anti-inflammatories.
  • Minimal side effects: Some patients experience mild redness or soreness at the treatment site, which typically subsides within 24-48 hours.
  • Quick recovery: No downtime or restricted activities are needed post-treatment.
  • Clinically backed: Over 100 peer-reviewed studies support the safety and effectiveness of shockwave and Softwave technologies.

Finally, to understand how this treatment stimulates healing, read our How SoftWave Therapy Works guide.

Who Should Avoid SoftWave Therapy?

Furthermore, while SoftWave Therapy is safe for the vast majority of patients, there are a few exceptions.  We do not recommend SoftWave Therapy for people who:

  • Are pregnant
  • Have active cancer or tumors in the treatment area
  • Have bleeding disorders or are on high doses of blood thinners
  • Have pacemakers or certain implanted medical devices

At your initial consultation, our team will carefully review your medical history to determine if Softwave Therapy is appropriate for you.

What to Expect During a SoftWave Therapy Session

Sessions are fast, safe, and comfortable for most patients. Here’s what typically happens:

  • Your provider identifies the treatment area and applies gel to help transmit the acoustic waves.
  • Your provider places the SoftWave device on your skin and delivers acoustic pulses deep into the tissues.
  • Most people report a tapping sensation, which may feel slightly uncomfortable but is generally well tolerated.
  • After the session, you can immediately return to your normal routine.

SoftWave vs. Other Treatment Options: Safety Comparison

Treatment Invasiveness Risk Level Recovery Time
SoftWave Therapy Non-invasive Very Low None
Corticosteroid Injections Minimally invasive (needle) Moderate 1–3 days
Surgery Invasive High (infection, anesthesia, complications) Weeks to months
Pain Medications Non-invasive Moderate (side effects, dependency risk) None

Trusted by Medical Professionals and Athletes

Additionally, SoftWave Therapy is used by orthopedic specialists, chiropractors, physical therapists, and sports medicine professionals worldwide. Its strong safety profile and growing body of clinical research have made it a trusted non-invasive treatment option for many musculoskeletal conditions.

Still have questions? Visit our SoftWave Therapy FAQ for answers about treatment, recovery, and what to expect.

Schedule a Safe, Non-Invasive Consultation Today

At Everybody’s Chiropractic Center, your health and safety are our top priorities. If you’re looking for a proven way to reduce pain, restore mobility, and avoid invasive procedures, SoftWave Therapy can help many patients relieve pain and recover naturally.

Click here to schedule your consultation and discover how SoftWave Therapy can help you heal safely and naturally.


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