Clinical Research Supporting
SoftWave Technology
Peer-reviewed studies and clinical evidence examining shockwave therapy across musculoskeletal and neurological conditions.
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Comparison of the effectiveness of extracorporeal shock wave therapy and corticosteroid injection in lateral epicondylitis
This randomized clinical study compared shockwave therapy to corticosteroid injections in patients with tennis elbow. Results showed that shockwave therapy demonstrated superior long-term outcomes, including improved pain reduction and grip strength.
Knee Pain / Knee Osteoarthritis
Efficacy of Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
This randomized controlled trial demonstrated that shockwave therapy significantly improved pain and functional outcomes in patients with knee osteoarthritis compared to placebo.
Low-Dose Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy for Knee Osteoarthritis
Shockwave therapy showed significant improvement in pain and function compared to placebo in patients with knee osteoarthritis.
Plantar Fasciitis
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy for Chronic Plantar Fasciitis
This systematic review including 11 randomized trials concluded that shockwave therapy significantly improved pain and function in patients with chronic plantar fasciitis.
Shockwave Therapy for Chronic Plantar Fasciitis
Focused shockwave therapy demonstrated higher success rates and greater pain reduction compared to placebo.
Neuropathy / Nerve Healing
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy and Nerve Conduction
Shockwave therapy was shown to reduce pain and improve nerve function, supporting its use in peripheral nerve injury and neuropathic conditions.
Shockwave Therapy for Neuropathic Pain
Research demonstrates shockwave therapy may improve diabetic neuropathy and other neuropathic pain conditions by stimulating nerve regeneration.
Clinical Summary
Shockwave therapy, including SoftWave technology, has been studied across multiple musculoskeletal and neurological conditions. Research demonstrates:
Tendon Rupture Risk with Corticosteroid Injections
Clinical research has documented tendon rupture following corticosteroid injections used for conditions such as tennis elbow.
⚠ Documented Risks
The following peer-reviewed publications document cases of tendon rupture and tissue weakening following corticosteroid injection:
Smith AG et al. (1999)
Reported near-total rupture of the common extensor tendon following corticosteroid injection for tennis elbow.
British Journal of Sports MedicinePatil A et al. (2023)
Documented complete rupture of the common extensor tendon following corticosteroid injection.
Journal of Orthopaedic Case ReportsUnverferth LJ et al. (1973)
Demonstrated corticosteroid injections reduce tendon strength and increase rupture risk.
American Journal of Sports MedicineWhile complications from corticosteroid injections are uncommon, clinical literature has documented tendon weakening and rupture in some cases. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making treatment decisions.
SoftWave vs Cortisone Injections
What does the research actually show?
Understanding the Difference
Corticosteroid injections are commonly used to temporarily reduce pain and inflammation. However, research has shown that while cortisone injections may provide short-term relief, they do not promote healing and may weaken tendon tissue over time.
SoftWave Therapy, on the other hand, is designed to stimulate healing, improve circulation, and promote tissue regeneration.
Tendon Weakening After Cortisone
Common extensor tendon rupture following corticosteroid injection for lateral tendinosis
Near-total rupture of the common extensor tendon documented following corticosteroid injection.
Complete rupture of common extensor origin following corticosteroid injection
Complete tendon rupture documented following corticosteroid injection for tennis elbow.
Local injection of steroid decreases tensile strength of tendon
Corticosteroid injections reduce tendon strength and increase rupture risk.
Clinical Support for SoftWave Therapy
Shockwave therapy vs corticosteroid injection for tennis elbow
Shockwave therapy demonstrated superior long-term outcomes compared to corticosteroid injections.
Shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis
Shockwave therapy significantly improved pain and function in chronic plantar fasciitis patients.
Shockwave therapy for knee osteoarthritis
Shockwave therapy significantly improved pain and function in knee osteoarthritis patients.
Feature Comparison
SoftWave Therapy vs Cortisone Injections at a glance
| Feature | Cortisone Injections | SoftWave Therapy |
|---|---|---|
| Reduces Pain | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Stimulates Healing | ✗ No | ✓ Yes |
| Improves Circulation | ✗ No | ✓ Yes |
| Risk of Tissue Weakening | ⚠ Possible | ✓ No |
| Non-Invasive | Injection required | ✓ Yes |
| Long-Term Outcomes | Often Temporary | ✓ Long-Term Healing |
Clinical Summary
Research suggests that while cortisone injections may provide temporary symptom relief, SoftWave therapy promotes healing and tissue regeneration, which may lead to improved long-term outcomes. Patients considering treatment options are encouraged to discuss these findings with a qualified healthcare provider.
While complications from corticosteroid injections are uncommon, clinical literature has documented tendon weakening and rupture in some cases. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
See SoftWave Therapy in Action
Watch this clinical overview to better understand how SoftWave technology supports healing and recovery.