How it works
How SoftWave Therapy Works — Without the Hype
Acoustic waves, delivered through the skin, aimed at tissue that hasn't settled on its own.
Direct answer
What is SoftWave therapy and how does it work?
SoftWave is a brand of extracorporeal shockwave therapy — a non-invasive treatment that delivers acoustic pressure waves through the skin into soft tissue. The waves are intended to stimulate the body's own repair response in tissue that has stalled in a chronic, low-grade state. It is a form of mechanical stimulation, not a drug, an injection or a surgery.
What actually happens in a session
Nothing about this should be mysterious. Here's the sequence.
- 1
Evaluation first
A history and physical examination identify what is actually generating the pain. Treatment without a working diagnosis is guesswork, and shockwave is not appropriate for every problem.
- 2
Locating the treatment area
The provider identifies the tissue to treat, usually guided by where symptoms reproduce during examination.
- 3
Applying the applicator
Gel is applied and the handpiece is moved across the area while acoustic pulses are delivered. You feel a rapid tapping sensation; intensity is adjusted to your tolerance.
- 4
Reassessment
Progress is measured against how you started — range of motion, provoking activities, pain with specific tasks — not just how you feel on the day.
- 5
Adjusting the plan
If you're responding, the plan continues. If you aren't, that should trigger a change of approach or a referral, not more of the same.
What the technology may help with
- Chronic tendon and fascia problems that haven't resolved with time and rest
- Pain that keeps returning when you go back to your normal activity level
- Situations where you'd rather try non-surgical options first
- Conditions where published shockwave research supports a trial of care
What it is not
- Not a cure-all, and not appropriate for every source of pain
- Not a substitute for diagnosis, imaging or surgical opinion when those are needed
- Not a replacement for loading and rehabilitation in tendon problems
- Not guaranteed to work — some people don't respond, and honest care says so
Frequently asked questions
Reviewed by: Clinical team, Compass Family Chiropractic · Last reviewed: September 2026
General patient education only. Not medical advice and not a diagnosis. See our editorial policy and medical disclaimer.
Where treatment happens
SoftWave Therapy Right Here in Dunwoody
SoftWave therapy is provided by Compass Family Chiropractic at their Dunwoody office — not a partner clinic in another city. If you live or work near Dunwoody, Perimeter Center, Brookhaven or Chamblee, treatment happens here.
Compass Family Chiropractic1745 Old Spring House Ln., Ste. 410
Dunwoody, GA 30338
Call or text: (770) 452-0022
See If SoftWave Is Worth Exploring
An evaluation is how you find out what you're actually dealing with — and whether SoftWave belongs in the plan.