Does SoftWave Therapy Really Work?
If you are considering SoftWave Therapy for chronic pain or a musculoskeletal problem, one of the most important questions is simple: Does SoftWave Therapy really work?
The answer depends on the condition being treated, the individual patient, and the treatment protocol. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy has been studied for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, and research has reported improvements in pain and function for certain conditions. However, results vary, and no treatment works for every patient.
At Everybody’s Chiropractic Center in Upper Darby, PA, we evaluate each patient before recommending SoftWave Therapy. Our goal is to determine whether this type of treatment is appropriate for your condition rather than assuming it is right for everyone.
What Does the Research Say About SoftWave Therapy?
SoftWave Therapy is a form of extracorporeal shockwave therapy. Research on extracorporeal shockwave therapy has examined its use for a number of musculoskeletal problems, particularly plantar fasciitis and certain tendon-related conditions.
Systematic reviews and clinical studies have reported potential improvements in pain and function for some patients. At the same time, results differ among studies because researchers use different devices, treatment protocols, energy levels, numbers of sessions, and patient populations.
This is important when answering whether SoftWave Therapy “works.” The evidence should not be interpreted to mean that every patient or every condition will respond the same way.
You can review published medical research through PubMed and additional information through the SoftWave Therapy research library.
How Does SoftWave Therapy Work?
SoftWave Therapy uses acoustic waves delivered through a handheld applicator to the treatment area.
Researchers continue to study the biological effects of extracorporeal shockwave therapy and the mechanisms that may contribute to changes in pain and function.
For a more detailed explanation of the technology and treatment process, read What Is SoftWave Therapy and How Does It Work?
What Conditions Have Been Studied With Shockwave Therapy?
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy has been researched for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions.
Some of the better-studied areas include:
- Plantar fasciitis and plantar heel pain
- Certain chronic tendon problems
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Tennis elbow and other tendon-related elbow pain
- Certain shoulder tendon conditions
- Other selected musculoskeletal conditions
The amount and quality of evidence are not identical for every diagnosis. A treatment that may be appropriate for one condition may not be appropriate for another.
That is why an examination and diagnosis are important before determining whether SoftWave Therapy should be considered.
Does SoftWave Therapy Work for Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the conditions for which extracorporeal shockwave therapy has been extensively studied.
Systematic reviews and meta-analyses have reported that shockwave therapy may improve pain and function in patients with plantar fasciitis, although results and comparisons with other treatments vary among studies.
If heel pain or plantar fasciitis is your primary concern, read SoftWave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis.
Does SoftWave Therapy Work for Tendon Problems?
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy has also been studied for several tendon-related conditions.
Research has evaluated shockwave therapy for problems involving areas such as the Achilles tendon, elbow tendons, and certain shoulder tendons. Some systematic reviews have found improvements in pain or function, but outcomes vary depending on the diagnosis and treatment protocol.
SoftWave Therapy should therefore be considered based on the specific condition rather than simply because pain has been present for a long time.
How Quickly Does SoftWave Therapy Work?
There is no single timeline that applies to every patient.
Some patients report changes relatively early in a treatment plan, while others may notice improvement more gradually. Some patients may not experience meaningful improvement.
Response can depend on factors such as:
- The condition being treated
- How long the problem has been present
- The severity of the condition
- Previous injuries or treatment
- Overall health
- Activity level
- The treatment protocol
- Individual response to care
SoftWave Therapy should not be viewed as an instant or guaranteed cure.
Why Does SoftWave Therapy Work Better for Some Patients Than Others?
Musculoskeletal pain can have many different causes. Two people with pain in the same area may have very different underlying conditions.
For that reason, results can vary considerably.
Before recommending SoftWave Therapy, a provider should consider the patient’s history, examination findings, diagnosis, symptoms, previous treatment, and treatment goals.
At Everybody’s Chiropractic Center, we use this information to determine whether SoftWave Therapy may be an appropriate part of a patient’s care.
Does SoftWave Therapy Hurt?
This is different from asking whether the treatment is effective.
Most patients tolerate treatment well, although the sensation can vary depending on the treatment area and individual sensitivity. Some patients describe tapping, pulsing, pressure, or temporary tenderness.
We have a separate guide devoted specifically to this question: Does SoftWave Therapy Hurt?
Keeping these questions separate is important because treatment comfort and treatment effectiveness are not the same thing.
Is SoftWave Therapy Safe?
Whether SoftWave Therapy is appropriate depends on the individual patient’s health history and condition.
There are situations in which shockwave therapy may not be appropriate or may require additional consideration. That is another reason an evaluation should occur before treatment is recommended.
For a detailed discussion, read Is SoftWave Therapy Safe? Side Effects, Risks, and Recovery.
What Are the Possible Side Effects?
Temporary reactions can occur following treatment and may vary from patient to patient.
Rather than duplicating our complete discussion here, see our dedicated guide: Side Effects of SoftWave Therapy.
If you experience unusual, severe, or persistent symptoms following any treatment, contact your healthcare provider.
How Do You Know if SoftWave Therapy Is Right for You?
The most important step is determining what is causing your symptoms.
SoftWave Therapy should not be recommended simply because someone has back pain, knee pain, shoulder pain, heel pain, or another musculoskeletal complaint.
An appropriate evaluation can help determine:
- What condition may be causing your symptoms
- Whether SoftWave Therapy is reasonable to consider
- Whether another type of care may be more appropriate
- What realistic treatment goals should be
- How progress should be monitored
At Everybody’s Chiropractic Center, we evaluate patients before recommending SoftWave Therapy.
SoftWave Therapy in Upper Darby, PA
Everybody’s Chiropractic Center provides SoftWave Therapy in Upper Darby, PA, serving patients throughout Delaware County, including Drexel Hill, Havertown, Springfield, Lansdowne, Broomall, and Media.
Everybody’s Chiropractic Center
Address: 115 E Township Line Road, Upper Darby, PA 19082
Phone: 610-789-1800
Website: Everybody’s Chiropractic Center
📍 Get Directions on Google Maps
Does SoftWave Therapy Really Work? Final Thoughts
Research suggests that extracorporeal shockwave therapy may improve pain and function for certain musculoskeletal conditions, although results vary depending on the condition, treatment protocol, and individual patient.
The key question is whether SoftWave Therapy is appropriate for your specific condition. At Everybody’s Chiropractic Center, we evaluate each patient before recommending treatment.
Ready to find out if SoftWave Therapy may be right for you? Contact Everybody’s Chiropractic Center or call 610-789-1800 to schedule a consultation in Upper Darby, PA.