Is SoftWave the Same as Shockwave Therapy? How They Differ
Is SoftWave the same as shockwave therapy? Not quite. Here's how the two technologies differ — and what that means for your pain-relief options in Cumming, GA.
Dr. Catie Cortner, DC - Arise Family Chiropractic
Medically reviewed by Dr. Catie Cortner, DC. Last reviewed: August 2026.
Is SoftWave the same as shockwave therapy? The short answer is: SoftWave is a specific type of acoustic wave technology, but it is not identical to traditional shockwave therapy — and the differences matter clinically. Peer-reviewed research supports the use of extracorporeal acoustic wave therapies for a range of musculoskeletal conditions, including chronic tendinopathies and plantar fasciitis [1]. At SoftWave Therapy Cumming, serving Forsyth County and surrounding communities including Alpharetta, Johns Creek, and Milton, Dr. Catie Cortner, DC, uses SoftWave's patented electrohydraulic technology to help patients address the root cause of pain without surgery or medication.
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
"Shockwave therapy" is an umbrella term for a family of non-invasive treatments that deliver acoustic energy — rapid pressure waves — into tissue to trigger the body's healing response. The category includes several distinct technologies:
- Focused ESWT (extracorporeal shockwave therapy): A narrow, high-pressure wave concentrated at a precise depth in tissue. Commonly used for calcific tendinopathy and plantar fasciitis.
- Radial pressure wave therapy (RPWT): Often marketed as "radial shockwave," this produces a diverging wave that spreads outward from the applicator tip. The pressure is highest at the surface and decreases with depth. Widely available, lower cost.
- Electrohydraulic acoustic wave therapy (SoftWave): Uses a water-filled parabolic reflector and an underwater spark-gap to generate an unfocused but broad, low-intensity wave front. This is the technology behind SoftWave TRT (Tissue Regeneration Technology).
Each of these devices produces acoustic pressure waves, which is why they all get grouped under the "shockwave" label — but the wave shape, energy profile, depth of penetration, and mechanism of action differ meaningfully between them.
Can a Chiropractor Offer SoftWave Therapy? Is It FDA-Cleared?
SoftWave TRT is FDA-cleared for temporary relief of minor muscle and joint pain, minor pain and stiffness, temporary relief of local increase in blood circulation, and temporary relaxation of muscle spasm. It is used by chiropractors, orthopedic surgeons, sports medicine physicians, and physical therapists across the United States.
Dr. Catie Cortner offers SoftWave Therapy at our Cumming, Georgia location as a standalone or complementary service — no chiropractic adjustment is required alongside it. Patients from Suwanee, Dawsonville, and South Forsyth regularly visit specifically for SoftWave sessions.
Important scope note: SoftWave therapy is a non-invasive supportive modality. Like all acoustic wave technologies, it is not a cure for any condition. Decisions about whether it is appropriate for your specific situation should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare provider.
How Does SoftWave Differ From Traditional Focused Shockwave Therapy?
This is where the comparison gets clinically interesting. Here are the key distinguishing characteristics:
Does the wave type change what the therapy feels like?
Yes — noticeably. Focused ESWT concentrates high-intensity energy at a specific depth, which can be uncomfortable or require local anesthesia at higher settings. Radial pressure wave therapy is generally more tolerable but is limited to superficial tissue.
SoftWave's electrohydraulic technology produces a broad, unfocused wave that covers a larger treatment area at lower peak pressures. Most patients describe the sensation as a mild tapping or vibration. No anesthesia is required, and no numbing is needed.
Is SoftWave the same as radial shockwave?
No. Radial pressure waves diverge outward from the handpiece tip — they're like a ripple spreading across a pond from a stone drop. SoftWave uses a parabolic reflector to generate a parallel wave front, which distributes energy more evenly across a wider treatment area (roughly the size of your palm in a single pass). This is a fundamentally different wave geometry.
Does the depth of penetration differ between shockwave technologies?
It does. Focused ESWT can be calibrated to penetrate 3–6 cm or deeper, targeting deep tissue structures. Radial pressure waves are strongest near the surface (roughly 0–3 cm). SoftWave's broad wave front is designed to penetrate 0–4.5 cm across a wider area — making it particularly suited for larger, more diffuse areas of soft-tissue involvement.
What Does Research Say About Acoustic Wave Therapy?
The research base for acoustic wave therapies — across the various technology types — has grown substantially over the past two decades. A few highlights relevant to the conditions we see most often:
- For plantar fasciitis, a randomized controlled trial found that focused extracorporeal shockwave therapy produced clinically meaningful pain and function improvements compared to sham in adults with chronic, treatment-resistant cases [1].
- For calcific tendinopathy of the rotator cuff, a systematic review and meta-analysis found that high-energy ESWT is among the more effective minimally invasive options [2].
- Mechanistic research in the broader ESWT category suggests that acoustic waves may support tissue repair through neovascularization and growth-factor release [3] and through mechanotransduction pathways that influence cellular repair processes [4].
An important caveat: Much of the research base uses focused ESWT or radial pressure wave devices. Published clinical trials specifically using the SoftWave TRT device are more limited. Patients considering any acoustic wave therapy should have a realistic conversation with their provider about what the evidence does and does not show for their specific condition.
What to Expect at SoftWave Therapy Cumming
A SoftWave session at our practice on Bethelview Road is designed to be straightforward and efficient. Here is what the experience typically looks like:
Session length: Per our clinical norms, each SoftWave session runs approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
Typical course of care: Most patients complete 6 to 8 sessions over 6 to 8 weeks. Individual recommendations are discussed at a follow-up visit based on your specific presentation.
What happens during a session: A water-soluble gel is applied to the treatment area (similar to an ultrasound gel). The SoftWave handpiece is moved systematically across the target tissue. You may feel a mild tapping or vibration; most patients tolerate the session easily without any numbing agent.
After your session: Downtime is not typically required. Some patients notice a mild, temporary increase in soreness in the area — similar to a post-exercise feeling — that typically resolves within a day or so. Most patients return to normal activities the same day.
Who comes in for SoftWave? We see patients dealing with plantar fasciitis, tendinopathies (like tennis elbow and Achilles issues), shoulder and hip pain, knee pain, neuropathy-related discomfort, sciatica, and post-surgical scar tissue. We also work with sports and overuse injuries common among the active families and recreational athletes in Windermere, Vickery, and the wider Cumming and Forsyth County community.
When Should You Consider a Different Approach?
SoftWave therapy is a non-invasive option that may be appropriate for many patients — but it is not right for everyone. You should consult with your physician or a qualified provider before pursuing acoustic wave therapy if you:
- Have an active infection, open wound, or tumor in the treatment area
- Are pregnant (SoftWave over the abdomen or pelvis is generally contraindicated)
- Have a bleeding disorder or are on anticoagulant medication without physician clearance
- Have had recent corticosteroid injections in the area (typically a 6-week waiting period is advised)
- Are experiencing symptoms that have not been evaluated — severe or worsening pain, new neurological symptoms, or unexplained swelling should be assessed by a physician before pursuing any physical modality
If symptoms worsen significantly after any acoustic wave session, or if you develop new numbness, weakness, or other neurological symptoms, discontinue treatment and consult your physician promptly.
SoftWave Therapy in Cumming, GA: Serving Forsyth County and Beyond
Our practice at 5456 Bethelview Road is located in the heart of Cumming, convenient to The Collection, Cumming City Center, and Northside Hospital Forsyth. We serve patients not only from Cumming and South Forsyth but from across the region — including Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Suwanee, Dawsonville, and Ball Ground.
Whether you've been researching "shockwave therapy near me" and stumbled across SoftWave, or a provider specifically recommended acoustic wave therapy for your condition, we're happy to answer your questions and help you understand whether SoftWave is a reasonable fit for what you're experiencing. Is SoftWave the same as shockwave therapy? Now you know it is not — and understanding that distinction is the first step toward making an informed decision about your care.
Comparison
| Feature | Focused ESWT | Radial Pressure Wave (RPWT) | SoftWave (Electrohydraulic) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wave type | Focused, high-peak-pressure | Diverging/radial, surface-strongest | Broad, unfocused parallel wave front |
| Depth of penetration | 3–6+ cm (adjustable) | ~0–3 cm (surface emphasis) | ~0–4.5 cm across wider area |
| Treatment area per pass | Small, targeted point | Small-to-medium | Larger, palm-sized coverage |
| Comfort level | Can be uncomfortable; anesthesia sometimes used | Generally tolerable | Mild tapping/vibration; no anesthesia needed |
| FDA-clearance status | Varies by device | Varies by device | FDA-cleared (SoftWave TRT) |
| Session length | Varies by protocol | Varies by protocol | ~10–15 min at our practice |
| Primary research base | Plantar fasciitis, calcific tendinopathy | Tendinopathies, muscle conditions | Growing; overlaps with ESWT literature |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SoftWave a type of shockwave therapy?
SoftWave is in the broader family of acoustic wave therapies that are often grouped under the 'shockwave' label, but it uses a distinct electrohydraulic technology that produces a different wave shape and energy profile than either focused ESWT or radial pressure wave devices. Calling SoftWave 'shockwave therapy' is a bit like calling all over-the-counter pain medications 'aspirin' — technically in the same category, but meaningfully different in how they work.
What is the difference between focused and radial shockwave therapy?
Focused ESWT concentrates energy at a precise depth — useful for targeting deep, specific structures — and can be uncomfortable at higher settings. Radial pressure wave therapy produces a diverging wave that spreads outward and is strongest at the skin surface, making it well-suited for superficial soft-tissue conditions. SoftWave uses neither approach; it generates a broad, parallel wave front through an electrohydraulic mechanism, covering a wider area at moderate depth.
Is SoftWave FDA-cleared?
Yes. SoftWave TRT (Tissue Regeneration Technology) is FDA-cleared for temporary relief of minor muscle and joint pain, minor pain and stiffness, temporary relief of local increase in blood circulation, and temporary relaxation of muscle spasm. FDA-clearance is not the same as FDA approval for treating a specific medical condition — your provider can help clarify what that means for your situation.
Does SoftWave therapy hurt?
Most patients describe SoftWave as a mild tapping or vibration sensation. Because SoftWave uses a broad, lower-peak-pressure wave compared to focused ESWT, it is generally well-tolerated without any numbing agent. Some patients notice mild, temporary soreness in the treated area afterward — similar to a post-exercise feeling — that typically resolves within a day or so.
How many SoftWave sessions will I need?
At our Cumming, Georgia practice, the typical course of care for SoftWave therapy is 6 to 8 sessions over 6 to 8 weeks. Each session runs approximately 10 to 15 minutes. That said, individual recommendations depend on your specific condition, how long you've had it, and how you respond — so personalized guidance is provided at a follow-up visit rather than a one-size-fits-all answer.
What conditions is SoftWave therapy used for?
SoftWave therapy is used for a range of musculoskeletal complaints, including plantar fasciitis, tendinopathies (tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, Achilles), shoulder and hip pain, knee pain, sciatica, neuropathy-related discomfort, and post-surgical scar tissue. At SoftWave Therapy Cumming, Dr. Catie Cortner also sees patients with sports and overuse injuries. Whether SoftWave is appropriate for your specific situation is best determined in a consultation.
Can SoftWave therapy be used alongside chiropractic care?
Yes — at our Forsyth County practice, SoftWave therapy can be offered as a standalone treatment or alongside chiropractic adjustments, depending on your situation. Some patients come in specifically for SoftWave without combining it with chiropractic care. The two modalities address different aspects of musculoskeletal health and can complement each other, though this is always discussed on an individual basis.
Is there any downtime after a SoftWave session?
Generally, no. Most patients return to their normal activities the same day. Significant downtime is not an expected part of SoftWave therapy. A small number of patients experience mild, temporary soreness in the treated area, but this is typically short-lived. If you experience significant or worsening symptoms after a session, you should contact your provider.
Who should NOT use SoftWave therapy?
SoftWave therapy is not appropriate for everyone. It is generally contraindicated over areas with active infection, open wounds, tumors, or during pregnancy (over the abdomen or pelvis). Patients on blood thinners or with bleeding disorders should consult their physician first, as should those who have had recent corticosteroid injections in the area. Unexplained or severe pain should always be evaluated by a physician before starting any physical modality.
Where can I get SoftWave therapy near Cumming, GA?
SoftWave Therapy Cumming is located at 5456 Bethelview Road, Suite 103B, Cumming, GA 30040 — convenient to The Collection, Cumming City Center, and Northside Hospital Forsyth. We serve patients from throughout Forsyth County and surrounding areas including Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Suwanee, Dawsonville, and Ball Ground. You can reach us at 770-406-8208 or visit softwavecumming.com to learn more.
Ready to learn whether SoftWave therapy is a fit for what you're dealing with? Dr. Catie Cortner and the team at SoftWave Therapy Cumming are here to answer your questions honestly — no pressure, no jargon. We serve patients from Cumming, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Suwanee, Milton, and across Forsyth County. Call us at 770-406-8208 or visit softwavecumming.com to book a consultation and find out if SoftWave is the right next step for your recovery.
References
[1] Gollwitzer H, Saxena A, DiDomenico LA, et al. Clinically relevant effectiveness of focused extracorporeal shock wave therapy in the treatment of chronic plantar fasciitis: a randomized, controlled multicenter study. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2015;97(9):701-708. - https://doi.org/10.2106/JBJS.M.01331
[2] Louwerens JKG, Sierevelt IN, van Noort A, van den Bekerom MPJ. Evidence for minimally invasive therapies in the management of chronic calcific tendinopathy of the rotator cuff: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2014;23(8):1240-1249. - https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jse.2014.02.002
[3] Notarnicola A, Moretti B. The biological effects of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) on tendon tissue. Muscles Ligaments Tendons J. 2012;2(1):33-37. - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3666498/
[4] Simplicio CL, Purita J, Murrell W, et al. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy mechanisms in musculoskeletal regenerative medicine. J Clin Orthop Trauma. 2020;11(Suppl 3):S309-S318. - https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcot.2020.02.004
This post is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider for guidance specific to your condition.
