If you’re searching for SoftWave therapy, you’ve likely heard shockwave can help stubborn tendon pain, plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, or slow-healing injuries. At Adisi Health Center in Hinsdale, IL, we use STORZ Medicalsystems that provide both radial and focused ESWT—two clinically validated ways to deliver shockwaves. This gives us flexibility to tailor treatment depth and intensity to your specific condition.

Below, we explain how SoftWave compares to STORZ radial and focused ESWT, when each option shines, and how we choose the right plan for you.

Quick Take

SoftWave® TRT uses an electrohydraulic source with a parabolic reflector to create a broad-focused (unfocused/planar) shockwave that spreads energy over a wide area and to variable depths (manufacturer-listed EFD ~0.01–0.19 mJ/mm²; therapeutic focus 0–82 mm).
STORZ Medical systems let us deliver two distinct modalities:
- Radial ESWT (rESWT): disperses energy superficially over a larger area (~3–5 cm depth)—excellent for muscle, fascia, and broad tendon enthesopathies.
- Focused ESWT (fESWT): concentrates energy at a precise depth (up to ~12 cm) for deep, localized targets (e.g., insertional tendinopathies, bone stress reactions).
Evidence shows both radial and focused work; some conditions respond better to focused (e.g., long-term outcomes in rotator cuff tendinopathy; knee OA function/pain).

What the Research Says (Plain English)

Both focused and radial ESWT reduce pain and improve function across many MSK conditions.
For non-calcific rotator cuff tendinopathy, focused ESWT outperformed radial at long-term follow-up in an RCT.
For knee osteoarthritis, focused ESWT improved pain and function more than radial in a head-to-head trial.
Radial ESWT remains effective, especially for superficial indications, with low side-effect rates.

Bottom line: There isn’t a single “best” device for everyone. Conditions that are deeper or highly localizedmay favor focused ESWT; broad, superficial pain patterns may do great with radial. SoftWave offers wide-area stimulation at modest energy levels, which some patients prefer for comfort and coverage.

Our Approach at Adisi Health Center (Hinsdale)

Evaluate the tissue + depth (exam, palpation, ultrasound findings if available).
Select the modality:
- Radial for broad myofascial pain, superficial tendon enthesopathies, trigger points.
- Focused for insertional tendinopathy (Achilles/hamstring), deep hip/shoulder, bone stress reactions.
- We can also sequence or combine radial + focused in the same plan when it’s advantageous.
Dose per guidelines (energy, impulses, frequency) and track outcomes.

FAQ: SoftWave vs. STORZ ESWT

Is SoftWave the same as shockwave therapy?
SoftWave is a brand of shockwave device using electrohydraulic generation and a parabolic reflector to create broad-focused waves. Shockwave therapy (ESWT) also includes radial and focused devices from other manufacturers like STORZ Medical.

Which works better—SoftWave or STORZ?
For superficial, broad issues, radial ESWT or SoftWave can be excellent. For deep, localized pathology, focused ESWToften has an edge in the literature. The best choice depends on your anatomy and goals.

How deep do the waves go?
SoftWave lists a therapeutic focus from 0–82 mm. Radial reaches roughly 3–5 cm; focused can target up to ~12 cmdepending on settings and applicator.

How many sessions will I need?
Most MSK cases respond within 6 sessions (weekly). Deep or chronic problems may need a few more. We’ll outline a plan after your exam (per ISMST dosing principles).

Is it safe?
ESWT is non-invasive with a strong safety profile when properly dosed. Expect temporary soreness/redness; serious adverse events are rare.

Who’s a Good Candidate?

Plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, tennis/golfer’s elbow, proximal hamstring, gluteal tendinopathy, patellar tendinopathy, shoulder rotator cuff, shin splints/MTSS, bone-stress injuries (case-dependent). We’ll choose radial vs. focused (or both) based on depth and irritability.

Call to schedule: (630) 887-1900 • Adisi Health Center, 534 Chestnut St, Suite 240, Hinsdale, IL 60521

Why Patients Choose Us Over Single-Modality Clinics

Two proven tools instead of one: We’re not limited to a single wave profile.
Depth-matched dosing: From superficial fascia to deep insertions/bone, we can target precisely.
Evidence-guided protocols: We follow ISMST dosing concepts and current trials.

DrPetzel

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Posted in Shockwave

SoftWave® Therapy vs. STORZ Medical Shockwave (Radial & Focused ESWT): What’s the Difference—and Which Is Best for You?