Question 1

What is SoftWave therapy?

Accepted Answer

SoftWave is a brand of extracorporeal shockwave therapy that delivers unfocused acoustic pressure waves through the skin into soft tissue, with the aim of stimulating the body's own repair response. It is non-invasive — no incision, no injection, no medication.

Question 2

Does it hurt?

Accepted Answer

Most people describe a tapping or thumping sensation that can be uncomfortable over sensitive tissue. Intensity is adjustable. Mild, short-lived soreness afterwards is common.

Question 3

How many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

There is no universal answer. Published shockwave protocols commonly involve several sessions about a week apart, but your plan depends on the condition, its duration and your response. Ask for an expected range and a point at which you'd reassess.

Question 4

How long before I know if it's working?

Accepted Answer

Responses vary. Some people notice change early, others only later in a course of care, and some do not respond at all. Agreeing in advance what progress looks like — and when you'd stop — protects you from open-ended treatment.

Question 5

Is there downtime?

Accepted Answer

Generally no. Your provider may adjust activity or loading around sessions, especially for tendon problems where exercise is part of the plan.

Question 6

Who is not a candidate?

Accepted Answer

Shockwave is not appropriate for everyone. Certain medical conditions, medications, pregnancy and some bone or tissue problems can rule it out. Only an in-person evaluation can determine whether it is appropriate for you.

Question 7

Do I need a diagnosis first?

Accepted Answer

Yes — treating without knowing what you're treating is guesswork. A history and examination should come before any treatment decision, and imaging or referral may be appropriate.

Question 8

When should I see a doctor urgently instead?

Accepted Answer

Seek prompt medical care for sudden severe pain after trauma, inability to bear weight, obvious deformity, fever with joint swelling, numbness or weakness that is spreading, or loss of bladder or bowel control. These need evaluation, not shockwave therapy.

Question 9

Can shockwave replace surgery?

Accepted Answer

It cannot be presented that way. For some people, non-surgical care resolves the problem well enough that surgery is not pursued; for others, surgery remains the right answer. That decision belongs with your treating providers.

Question 10

Where is treatment provided?

Accepted Answer

Compass Family Chiropractic, 1745 Old Spring House Ln., Ste. 410, Dunwoody, GA 30338. Call or text (770) 452-0022.

Question 11

What does it cost?

Accepted Answer

Pricing is set by the clinic and depends on your plan of care. This site does not publish prices it cannot verify — ask the clinic directly for current fees and what a full plan would involve.

Question 12

Is it covered by insurance?

Accepted Answer

Shockwave therapy is frequently not covered, and coverage varies by plan and diagnosis. Confirm with the clinic and your insurer before assuming either way.

Question 13

Do I need a referral?

Accepted Answer

Ask the clinic when you call. Requirements depend on your insurance and circumstances.

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