Terminology, cleared up
What's the Difference Between Shockwave and SoftWave?
One is the category. One is a specific technology inside it. Knowing the difference makes it much easier to compare clinics honestly.
Direct answer
Is SoftWave the same as shockwave therapy?
Not exactly. "Shockwave therapy" is the broad treatment category — and the phrase most people search. SoftWave® is one specific technology within that category, and it is the device used at Total Health Chiropractic in Coralville. Someone searching for shockwave therapy in Coralville and someone searching for SoftWave are usually looking for the same kind of care.
| Technology | Type | Energy delivery | Treatment area | Terminology |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SoftWave® | Unfocused low-intensity shockwave (per manufacturer documentation) | Acoustic shockwave delivered through the applicator surface | Described by the manufacturer as covering a broader treatment area | Usually referred to by brand name |
| Focused shockwave (ESWT) | Focused extracorporeal shockwave | Energy converges toward a selected depth | Narrower zone at a chosen depth | The term most used in published clinical research |
| Radial pressure wave | Radial pressure wave, often marketed as radial shockwave | Pressure wave radiates outward from the applicator tip | Generally strongest nearer the surface | Frequently grouped under 'shockwave' in advertising |
Which one is better?
That question does not have a category-level answer, and anyone who gives you one is selling. These are different tools with different characteristics, studied unevenly across conditions. What matters more is whether your problem is one where shockwave therapy has support, whether you have an accurate diagnosis, and whether the plan includes the loading and activity changes the tissue needs.
Questions worth asking any clinic
- Which device do you use, and is it focused, unfocused or radial?
- What are the cleared indications for that specific device?
- What did the exam find, and why is this area being treated?
- What am I doing between visits?
- How will we know whether it's working?
Device clearance in the United States is device- and indication-specific, so "FDA-cleared" is only meaningful alongside the indication it was cleared for. See our research library for sources.
Medical disclaimer: This page is general health education and is not medical advice, a diagnosis or a treatment recommendation. SoftWave® may be considered for certain musculoskeletal conditions when clinically appropriate; an evaluation determines candidacy. Individual results vary. Nothing here establishes a doctor-patient relationship.
Author: Coralville Shockwave editorial team · Clinical reviewer: Dr. Dillon Hammes, DC · Last reviewed: September 1, 2026
Sources and our correction process are described in our editorial policy.
FAQ
Technology questions
What is shockwave therapy?
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment category that delivers acoustic pressure waves into tissue through the surface of the skin. It is used in musculoskeletal care for certain persistent tendon, soft-tissue and joint-related problems, and whether it is appropriate depends on evaluation and diagnosis.
Is SoftWave the same as shockwave therapy?
Not exactly. "Shockwave therapy" is the broad category of treatment; SoftWave is one specific technology within that category. People searching for shockwave therapy in Coralville and people searching for SoftWave are usually looking for the same kind of care.
What's the difference between SoftWave and radial shockwave?
Radial pressure wave devices generate a pressure wave that spreads out from the applicator surface and is generally strongest closer to the skin. SoftWave is described by its manufacturer as producing an unfocused low-intensity shockwave across a broader treatment area. Neither should be presented as categorically better; they are different tools.
Is SoftWave FDA-cleared?
Shockwave devices sold in the United States carry clearances for specific indications listed in each device's own clearance documentation. Clearance is device- and indication-specific, so ask Total Health Chiropractic about the specific device and its cleared uses.
Real Coralville location
SoftWave Therapy Right Here in Coralville.
Treatment is provided in person at Total Health Chiropractic in Coralville — Johnson County, minutes from Iowa City.
Coralville Office Hours
- Monday9 AM–1 PM3 PM–6 PM
- Tuesday9 AM–1 PM3 PM–7 PM
- Wednesday7 AM–1 PM2 PM–5 PM
- Thursday9 AM–1 PM3 PM–6 PM
- Friday9 AM–1 PM
- Saturday10 AM–1 PM
- SundayClosed
Hours can change around holidays — call to confirm before you drive over.