Updated November 9, 2026
Shockwave is the broad name for therapy that sends acoustic waves into sore tissue. SoftWave is one brand of that therapy. At Davidson Family Wellness in Overland Park, KS, we use the SoftWave TRT OrthoGold 100 device. This guide explains the difference in plain words.
If you searched for the difference between shockwave and SoftWave, you are not alone. The names sound alike, and many offices use them in different ways. Here is a simple way to sort it out.
In this guide
Shockwave therapy is the general term. Its full name is extracorporeal shock wave therapy, or ESWT. A device sends acoustic waves through the skin into an area that hurts. Different devices make those waves in different ways, so two offices that both say “shockwave” may offer quite different care.
SoftWave is a brand of shockwave therapy. Our SoftWave TRT OrthoGold 100 uses an electro-hydraulic spark gap to make unfocused acoustic waves. The waves spread across the treatment area instead of hitting one small point.
SoftWave is FDA-cleared. We use it for muscle and joint pain, plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, shoulder and knee pain, and nerve conditions such as neuropathy. You can read more on our SoftWave therapy in Overland Park page.
| Question | Shockwave (general term) | SoftWave at our office |
|---|---|---|
| What is it? | A group of acoustic wave therapies (ESWT) | One brand in that group |
| How are waves made? | Varies by device | Electro-hydraulic spark gap |
| Wave type | Varies by device | Unfocused acoustic waves |
| Our device | Not applicable | SoftWave TRT OrthoGold 100 |
| Visit length | Varies by office | Each session lasts 15 to 20 minutes |
| Downtime | Varies by office | None. You return to normal activities right away |
Typical plans use 1 to 2 sessions a week for 3 to 4 weeks, and most conditions need 6 to 8 sessions in total. Your plan depends on your exam.
Live near Lenexa? See SoftWave tissue regeneration near Lenexa, KS.
SoftWave is a type of shockwave therapy. Shockwave is the general term, and SoftWave is one brand. Our SoftWave TRT OrthoGold 100 makes unfocused acoustic waves with an electro-hydraulic spark gap.
Shockwave names the whole group of acoustic wave therapies. SoftWave is one device in that group. Devices differ in how they make the waves, so ask any office which device it uses.
Most people feel mild tapping or mild discomfort during treatment. Many report relief right away, and there is no downtime.
Each session lasts 15 to 20 minutes.
Typical plans use 1 to 2 sessions a week for 3 to 4 weeks. Most conditions need 6 to 8 sessions in total. Dr. Davidson sets your plan after your exam.
Davidson Family Wellness is at 7500 W 160th Street, Suite 202, Overland Park, KS. Book online or call (913) 808-5444.
About this guide: Written by Davidson Family Wellness, 7500 W 160th Street, Suite 202, Overland Park, KS. SoftWave care at our clinic is provided by Dr. Jake Davidson, DC. Learn more on our Meet the Team page.
Disclaimer: This guide is general information, not medical advice.