SoftWave vs Shockwave: Are They the Same? (Spoiler: Not Quite)

When it comes to non-invasive pain relief and tissue regeneration, two popular therapies often get confused: SoftWave Therapy and Shockwave Therapy. While the names sound similar, and both use acoustic waves to stimulate healing, they are not the same. At Enos Chiropractic Center, we’re proud to offer SoftWave Therapy—an advanced, evidence-backed treatment that stands apart in both its technology and results. Here's what you need to know.

What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave Therapy, often referred to as Radial Pressure Wave or Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), has been around for several decades. It uses high-energy acoustic waves, typically generated by compressed air or electromagnetic pulses, to stimulate healing in soft tissue, break down scar tissue, and treat chronic pain.

This form of therapy is often used for:

• Plantar fasciitis

• Tennis elbow

• Calcific shoulder tendinitis

• Chronic tendinopathies

Shockwave can be effective, but it comes with limitations—namely, discomfort during treatment, a more superficial reach, and in some cases, temporary bruising or soreness.

What Is SoftWave Therapy?

SoftWave Therapy, also known as SoftWave Tissue Regeneration Technology (TRT), is a next-generation, FDA-cleared therapy that uses unfocused acoustic waves to go deeper into the tissue with less discomfort and a broader healing effect.

SoftWave is designed to:

• Reduce inflammation and pain

• Activate stem cells and growth factors

• Improve circulation and blood flow

• Accelerate soft tissue repair

• Promote natural regeneration at the cellular level

One major difference? SoftWave's unfocused waves spread out and penetrate up to 7 cm into the tissue, meaning it can treat both the area of pain and surrounding structures more effectively.

Key Differences Between SoftWave and Shockwave

Why Enos Chiropractic Center Offers SoftWave

After seeing the consistent, long-term improvements our patients experience with SoftWave Therapy, it's clear why we chose this advanced technology. We’ve successfully used SoftWave to treat conditions such as:

• Chronic knee pain

• Shoulder injuries

• Plantar fasciitis

• Tennis/golfer’s elbow

• Neck and back pain

• Soft tissue injuries

It’s non-invasive, drug-free, and requires no downtime. Most patients feel relief within the first session.

Final Thoughts

SoftWave and Shockwave may sound like interchangeable treatments, but they are very different when it comes to comfort, effectiveness, and healing depth. At Enos Chiropractic Center, we're committed to offering the most advanced, patient-friendly care—and SoftWave Therapy delivers just that.

Interested in learning more or seeing if SoftWave Therapy is right for you? Contact our office  in Warwick, RI to schedule a consultation. Let’s help your body heal—naturally.