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The Top 10 Conditions SoftWave Therapy Can Transform – And the Science Behind Why It Works

Here’s something that’s been absolutely GAME-CHANGING in our practice lately…

After years of helping patients through specific chiropractic adjustments, targeted nutrition, and lifestyle changes, I’ve added a technology to our clinic that’s taking results to a whole new level: SoftWave Therapy.

And honestly? I’m blown away by what we’re seeing.

But before you think this is just another “magic treatment” promising overnight miracles… let me be clear: this isn’t about chasing symptoms. This is about turning on your body’s own healing mechanisms at a cellular level.

Think of it this way: Your body already KNOWS how to heal. It built you from two cells into 70+ trillion cells working in perfect harmony. That same intelligence is still there – sometimes it just needs the right signal to get past whatever’s blocking it.

That’s exactly what SoftWave does.

What Makes SoftWave Different From Everything Else Out There

SoftWave (electrohydraulic unfocused shockwave therapy) isn’t a pain treatment. It’s a biological trigger.

At a cellular level, SoftWave activates:

• Angiogenesis → new blood vessel formation bringing life back to degenerative tissue
• Stem cell recruitment → mobilizing your body’s own repair cells to where they’re needed most
• Nerve modulation → calming hypersensitive pain pathways without drugs
• Reduced neurogenic inflammation → lowering the chemicals (substance P, CGRP) that keep pain cycles going
• Improved tissue metabolism → ramping up mitochondrial function and ATP production
• Collagen remodeling → organizing tissue properly instead of leaving behind dysfunctional scar tissue
• Accelerated regeneration → turning on healing pathways (TLR3, eNOS, VEGF) that may have been dormant

When you understand these mechanisms, you start to see why SoftWave helps conditions that have been “stuck” for months or even YEARS.

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The Top 10 Conditions We’re Seeing Incredible Results With

Based on the research and what we’re witnessing in our own practice, here are the conditions where SoftWave is making the biggest impact:

Here are the top 10 conditions where we’re seeing the most remarkable results:

1. Chronic Tendon Pain (Tendinopathy) – Achilles, rotator cuff, tennis elbow, patellar tendon
2. Plantar Fasciitis – That brutal heel pain that won’t quit
3. Non-Healing Wounds & Diabetic Foot Ulcers – FDA-cleared for wound healing
4. Acute Second-Degree Burns – FDA-cleared for faster healing with less scarring
5. Peripheral Nerve Pain & Entrapments – Carpal tunnel, neuropathy, nerve compression
6. Osteoarthritis – Knee, hip, shoulder, TMJ degeneration
7. Muscle Tears, Strains & Myofascial Pain – Chronic tightness and trigger points
8. Bone Healing & Stress Fractures – Non-unions and delayed healing
9. Sexual Health Issues – Erectile dysfunction and Peyronie’s disease
10. Scar Tissue & Post-Surgical Fibrosis – Adhesions and restricted movement

Read below for the detailed breakdown of WHY SoftWave works so effectively for each of these conditions – the science is fascinating.

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1. Chronic Tendon Pain (Tendinopathy)

Whether it’s Achilles, patellar, rotator cuff, tennis elbow, or glute medius pain – chronic tendon issues are FRUSTRATING. Here’s what makes tendinopathy so stubborn: for decades, we thought chronic tendon pain was just inflammation or “tendonitis.” But modern research has completely flipped that understanding. What we’re actually dealing with is a complex condition where your body tries to heal the tendon but gets stuck in a dysfunctional loop. The tendon becomes infiltrated with abnormal nerve fibers that shouldn’t be there (a process called neurogenic inflammation), the collagen structure becomes disorganized and thickened, blood vessels either disappear from the area or grow in abnormally, and inflammatory cells like mast cells take up residence and continuously release pain chemicals. To make matters worse, the tendon cells themselves (tenocytes) start behaving abnormally – they stop producing healthy collagen and instead create a chaotic, weakened structure. This is why you can rest for weeks or months, do all the stretching and strengthening exercises, maybe even get a cortisone shot… and STILL have pain. The biological environment won’t allow true healing to occur.

Here’s what most people don’t realize: modern research shows chronic tendon pain isn’t just “wear and tear.” It’s actually a nerve-driven condition involving:

• Pathological nerve ingrowth into the tendon
• Excessive pain chemicals flooding the area
• Disorganized, thickened collagen
• Poor blood flow
• Impaired healing signals

This “stuck state” is why rest, stretching, and even injections often fail. The biological environment won’t LET the tendon heal.

Why SoftWave works so well for tendons:

Here’s where it gets really interesting – and this is what sold me on the research. SoftWave’s electrohydraulic waves create what’s called “mechanotransduction” – essentially, mechanical energy that your cells can interpret as a healing signal. For tendons specifically, this triggers a cascade of effects that directly address EACH component of the problem. The waves selectively destroy those abnormal C-fiber nerve endings (the ones creating the neuropathic pain) while leaving healthy nerve tissue intact. They stimulate the release of substances that STOP new pathological nerve growth from the paratenon (the sheath around the tendon where these problematic nerves originate). At the same time, SoftWave activates dormant tenocytes and triggers them to start producing organized collagen again – essentially teaching the tendon how to remodel properly. The angiogenesis effect is crucial too: SoftWave stimulates massive increases in VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) and eNOS (endothelial nitric oxide synthase), which create NEW, HEALTHY blood vessels in the tendon. And perhaps most importantly, it activates the TLR3 pathway, which is like flipping a master switch that tells the entire area: “Stop being stuck in dysfunction – it’s time to regenerate.” This is why we’re seeing tendons that haven’t improved in MONTHS start responding in just a few sessions. We’re not masking the pain – we’re changing the biology.

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2. Plantar Fasciitis

One of the strongest evidence bases in regenerative medicine – and one of the most common things I treat. Plantar fasciitis affects roughly 10% of the population at some point in their lives, and if you’ve ever had it, you know that first-step-in-the-morning pain is absolutely BRUTAL. But here’s what most people (and unfortunately, many healthcare providers) don’t understand: plantar fasciitis is really a misnomer. The “-itis” suffix means inflammation, but when researchers actually biopsy plantar fascia tissue from chronic cases, they rarely find inflammatory cells. Instead, they find degenerative changes – the fascia is breaking down, becoming disorganized, developing micro-tears, and essentially aging prematurely. The tissue becomes thick, stiff, and loses its natural elasticity. Making matters worse, tiny nerve fibers grow into the fascia (they shouldn’t be there in healthy tissue), creating a neuropathic pain component. The fascia also has notoriously poor blood supply to begin with – it’s one of the least vascular structures in your body – so once it gets into this degenerative state, it has a REALLY hard time healing on its own. Add in biomechanical factors (tight calves, weak foot intrinsics, improper footwear), and you’ve got a perfect storm for chronic pain that just won’t quit.

SoftWave breaks up those dysfunctional adhesions, reduces nerve irritation, and brings circulation back to an area that’s notoriously hard to get blood flow to.

Why SoftWave is particularly effective for plantar fascia:

This is where SoftWave really shines compared to other treatments. First, the unfocused nature of SoftWave’s electrohydraulic waves means we’re treating a LARGE area of the plantar fascia, not just one pinpoint spot. The entire plantar complex – from the heel attachment through the arch to the forefoot – gets stimulated. This matters because plantar fasciitis is rarely isolated to just one spot; the whole fascial system is usually involved. Second, SoftWave’s ability to break up dysfunctional tissue is crucial here. Those calcifications you might see on X-rays? Those adhesions between the fascia and surrounding tissue? SoftWave creates controlled micro-trauma (sounds scary, but it’s actually therapeutic) that breaks these up while simultaneously triggering regeneration. The mechanical waves literally reorganize the collagen fibers into a healthier alignment. Third – and this is HUGE – SoftWave brings blood flow to an area that desperately needs it but naturally has very little. The angiogenesis effect we see with SoftWave essentially creates a new vascular network in the fascia, bringing oxygen, nutrients, and healing factors that haven’t been there in months or years. And that nerve modulation piece? It silences those hypersensitized nerve endings that have been screaming with every step you take. Patients often feel relief within MINUTES of their first treatment – then see lasting improvement as the fascia actually remodels and heals over the following weeks. The research shows that SoftWave outperforms cortisone injections at 12 weeks and beyond, and unlike injections that can weaken tissue over time, SoftWave actually STRENGTHENS the fascia as it heals.

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3. Non-Healing Wounds & Diabetic Foot Ulcers

This is actually one of SoftWave’s FDA-cleared indications – and the research here is fascinating. Chronic wounds are a massive healthcare problem, affecting millions of Americans and costing our healthcare system billions of dollars annually. For people with diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, or compromised immune systems, what should be a simple wound can become a nightmare that won’t heal for months or even years. Here’s what happens: the normal wound healing process has very specific phases (hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling), and chronic wounds get STUCK – usually in the inflammatory phase. The tissue becomes senescent, meaning the cells basically give up and stop dividing. A biofilm of bacteria forms that’s incredibly resistant to antibiotics. The small blood vessels in the area are damaged or insufficient. The body’s normal signals to recruit healing cells, lay down new tissue, and close the wound just… don’t work anymore. For diabetic patients, high blood sugar damages the microvascular system and impairs immune cell function, making this problem even worse. The result? Open wounds that become portals for infection, cause tremendous pain and disability, drastically reduce quality of life, and in severe cases, lead to amputation. Traditional wound care – cleaning, dressings, antibiotics – often isn’t enough when the biological environment can’t support healing.

SoftWave stimulates massive angiogenesis (300%+ increases in some studies), promotes healthy tissue granulation, improves oxygenation, and activates local stem cells.

Why SoftWave is revolutionary for wound healing:

The reason SoftWave earned FDA clearance for chronic wounds is because of some truly remarkable research showing effects that conventional treatments simply can’t achieve. Here’s what’s happening at a cellular level: SoftWave dramatically upregulates VEGF and FGF (fibroblast growth factor), triggering the formation of NEW blood vessels in and around the wound bed. We’re talking about measurably increased vascular density within days of treatment. This brings oxygen and nutrients to tissue that’s been starved of both. Second, SoftWave activates fibroblasts (the cells that lay down new tissue) and keratinocytes (the cells that form new skin) – essentially waking them up from their senescent state and telling them to get back to work. The mechanical stimulation also helps break up biofilm, making the wound more receptive to the body’s immune response and any topical treatments being used. Perhaps most importantly, SoftWave recruits mesenchymal stem cells to the wound site – your body’s own repair cells that can differentiate into whatever tissue type is needed. Studies show that wounds treated with shockwave therapy have faster closure rates, better tissue quality (less fragile scar tissue, more organized healing), and significantly reduced risk of infection compared to standard care alone. For diabetic foot ulcers specifically, which have an amputation risk of up to 25%, this technology is literally limb-saving. We’re seeing wounds that haven’t made ANY progress in months finally transition into active healing within 2-4 weeks of starting SoftWave. That’s not just improving quality of life – in many cases, it’s preventing a life-altering amputation.

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4. Acute Second-Degree Burns

Another FDA-cleared application – used in burn centers throughout Europe. Burns are categorized by depth: first-degree affects just the outer skin layer (like a sunburn), second-degree goes deeper into the dermis, and third-degree destroys all skin layers. Second-degree burns are particularly challenging because they’re deep enough to cause significant damage and scarring risk, but not so deep that they automatically require surgical intervention. The problem is that the healing process for burns is extremely complex and fraught with complications. The initial injury triggers massive inflammation (necessary at first, but it can become excessive). The burned tissue releases inflammatory mediators that can damage surrounding healthy tissue – essentially, the injury “spreads” even after the heat source is removed. The microvascular system in the area is damaged, compromising blood flow and oxygen delivery. Infection risk is extremely high because the skin barrier is broken. Scar formation is almost inevitable, and keloid scarring (raised, overgrown scars) is common. Pain is intense because nerve endings are exposed or damaged. And the re-epithelialization process (growing new skin to cover the wound) is slow and unreliable, especially in larger burns. Traditional burn care involves wound cleaning, topical antimicrobials, dressings, and pain management – all necessary, but often not sufficient for optimal healing. Many second-degree burns take weeks to months to fully heal, and the resulting scars can be cosmetically and functionally problematic.

SoftWave helps by:

• Promoting faster skin repair
• Reducing excessive inflammation
• Improving circulation in damaged tissue
• Providing pain relief
• Supporting regeneration with less scarring

Why SoftWave accelerates burn healing:

The application of shockwave therapy to burns is relatively new but incredibly promising, and the mechanisms make perfect biological sense. First, SoftWave modulates the inflammatory response – it doesn’t suppress it entirely (you need some inflammation for healing), but it prevents that excessive, tissue-damaging inflammation from spiraling out of control. It does this by influencing cytokine production and immune cell behavior. Second, the angiogenesis effect is crucial in burns because the microvascular damage is often the limiting factor in healing. SoftWave stimulates rapid formation of new capillaries in and around the burn, restoring blood flow and oxygen delivery much faster than would happen naturally. This vascular support is what allows keratinocytes to migrate and proliferate, closing the wound. Third – and this is really fascinating – SoftWave appears to improve the QUALITY of tissue regeneration, not just the speed. The new tissue that forms has better organization, more normal collagen structure, and improved elasticity compared to untreated burns. This translates to less hypertrophic scarring and better cosmetic outcomes. The pain relief component is also significant: SoftWave’s neuromodulation effects reduce nerve hypersensitivity, allowing patients to be more comfortable during the healing process (which also helps healing – chronic pain actually impairs wound healing through various mechanisms). In European burn centers using this technology, they’re seeing faster epithelial coverage, reduced need for skin grafting, lower infection rates, and dramatically better scar outcomes. For a patient facing weeks of painful dressing changes and potential surgical intervention, adding SoftWave can transform their recovery trajectory.

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5. Peripheral Nerve Pain, Entrapments & Neuropathy

Whether it’s carpal tunnel, cubital tunnel, tarsal tunnel, or general neuropathy – nerve issues are TOUGH to resolve conventionally. Peripheral nerves are remarkable structures that carry electrical signals between your brain/spinal cord and the rest of your body, controlling everything from movement to sensation to organ function. When these nerves get damaged, compressed, or inflamed, the results can be devastating: burning pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, and loss of function. Nerve entrapment syndromes (like carpal tunnel) occur when a nerve gets compressed as it passes through a tight anatomical space – inflammation, scar tissue, or mechanical pressure essentially “strangles” the nerve. Peripheral neuropathy (common in diabetes, chemotherapy patients, and various other conditions) involves actual nerve damage where the myelin sheath breaks down and the nerve fibers themselves deteriorate. In both cases, several problematic things happen: the nerve becomes hyperexcitable, firing pain signals even without a stimulus (neuropathic pain). The Schwann cells (which normally maintain and repair nerve sheaths) become dysfunctional. Blood flow to the nerve decreases. Inflammatory chemicals accumulate. Scar tissue can form around the nerve, creating ongoing compression. And here’s the frustrating part: once nerve damage reaches a certain threshold, the conventional wisdom has been that it’s permanent. Surgery can decompress an entrapped nerve but doesn’t guarantee symptom relief. Medications for neuropathy (gabapentin, lyrica, etc.) just mask symptoms without addressing the underlying nerve damage. Many patients are told they’ll simply have to “live with it.”

SoftWave improves nerve health by:

• Silencing hyperactive pain fibers
• Reducing inflammatory chemicals in nerves
• Improving blood flow around compressed nerves
• Stimulating Schwann cell regeneration (the cells that repair nerve sheaths)
• Enhancing nerve conduction
• Reducing fibrosis around the nerve

Why SoftWave offers hope for nerve conditions:

This is where the research gets really exciting, because we’re challenging that old belief that nerve damage is permanent. Studies show that SoftWave therapy can actually stimulate nerve regeneration – something that was thought to be extremely limited in peripheral nerves and nearly impossible in adults. Here’s the mechanism: SoftWave activates Schwann cells, which are responsible for producing myelin (the insulating sheath around nerves) and supporting nerve repair. These cells have regenerative capacity, but they often need a trigger to activate. SoftWave provides that trigger through mechanotransduction and growth factor upregulation. Studies show increased Schwann cell proliferation and improved myelination after shockwave treatment. Second, SoftWave directly modulates pain pathways. Neuropathic pain involves hypersensitized C-fibers (pain nerves) and excessive release of substance P, CGRP, and glutamate (pain neurotransmitters). SoftWave has been shown to reduce these pain chemicals and selectively quiet those hyperactive nerves without affecting normal nerve function. Third, the improvement in microcirculation is crucial – nerves have their own blood supply (vasa nervorum), and when this is compromised, nerve function deteriorates. SoftWave enhances this blood flow, bringing oxygen and nutrients that support nerve metabolism and healing. Fourth, for entrapment syndromes specifically, SoftWave reduces the fibrosis and scar tissue around the nerve, essentially creating more space and reducing mechanical compression. In research studies, patients with carpal tunnel syndrome treated with shockwave therapy showed improved nerve conduction velocity (measured objectively with nerve conduction studies) and reduced symptoms – without surgery. For peripheral neuropathy, while we can’t claim it “cures” the condition, we’re seeing meaningful improvements in pain levels, sensation, and function that patients had been told were impossible. The key is that we’re not just masking symptoms – we’re supporting actual nerve tissue repair and regeneration.

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6. Osteoarthritis (Knee, Hip, Shoulder, TMJ)

OA isn’t just “bone-on-bone.” It’s a complex degenerative joint disease that affects over 32 million Americans and is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. For years, arthritis was thought of as simple “wear and tear” – cartilage wears down, bones rub together, end of story. But modern research shows OA is actually a whole-joint disease involving multiple tissues and complex biological processes. Here’s what’s really happening: the cartilage that normally cushions your joints starts breaking down, but it’s not just mechanical breakdown – it’s a failure of cartilage metabolism. The chondrocytes (cartilage cells) become dysfunctional and can’t maintain the cartilage matrix. Inflammatory molecules (cytokines like IL-1β and TNF-α) flood the joint, creating a hostile environment. The synovial membrane (the lining of the joint) becomes inflamed, producing excess fluid (that’s the swelling you see). Small nerve fibers that shouldn’t be in cartilage start growing into it, creating a neuropathic pain component. The subchondral bone (the bone just under the cartilage) starts to change – it becomes denser in some areas, develops cysts, and forms bone spurs (osteophytes). The surrounding muscles weaken and atrophy, reducing joint stability. And critically, blood flow to the joint decreases, starving the tissues of oxygen and nutrients they need to repair. The conventional medical approach is typically a stepwise process: NSAIDs for pain, cortisone injections when that fails, and ultimately joint replacement surgery. But none of these actually address the biological dysfunction or attempt to restore joint health – they’re all symptom management or, in the case of replacement, admitting defeat.

SoftWave addresses ALL of these factors:

• Increases blood flow to the joint
• Reduces inflammatory molecules
• Improves cartilage cell metabolism
• Modulates those hypersensitive nerve endings
• Breaks up calcifications and fibrotic changes around the joint

Why SoftWave can change the trajectory of arthritis:

This is one of the most encouraging areas of SoftWave research because we’re seeing that joint degeneration isn’t necessarily a one-way street. While we can’t claim to “cure” arthritis or regrow cartilage that’s completely gone, we CAN improve the biological environment in the joint and potentially slow or even partially reverse some of the degenerative changes. Here’s what the research shows: SoftWave dramatically increases blood flow to arthritic joints – we’re talking about measurable increases in microvascular density and perfusion. This is huge because OA joints are characteristically hypoxic (low oxygen), and that hypoxia drives much of the dysfunction. With improved blood flow comes better nutrient delivery and waste removal. Second, SoftWave reduces those inflammatory cytokines that drive cartilage breakdown. Studies show decreased IL-1β, TNF-α, and other pro-inflammatory molecules after shockwave treatment. This isn’t just reducing inflammation for symptom relief – it’s actually creating an environment where the joint can potentially stabilize or even improve. Third – and this is remarkable – some studies suggest that SoftWave can stimulate chondrocyte metabolic activity. These cartilage cells, which had essentially “given up” in the arthritic joint, start producing collagen and proteoglycans again (the building blocks of cartilage). We’re not talking about massive cartilage regeneration, but even modest improvements in cartilage quality can significantly impact function and pain. Fourth, the neuromodulation effect addresses that neuropathic pain component – the reason many OA patients hurt even when they’re not moving is because of hypersensitized nerve endings in and around the joint. SoftWave calms these down. Finally, SoftWave breaks up calcifications, bone spurs, and fibrotic changes in the joint capsule and surrounding tissues, improving mobility and reducing mechanical irritation. Patients consistently report not just less pain, but actually improved range of motion and function. They can do activities they couldn’t do before. That’s a game-changer compared to just taking pills for pain while function continues to decline.

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7. Muscle Tears, Strains & Myofascial Pain

Muscles get stuck in dysfunction through various mechanisms, and it’s frustrating how often these issues become chronic. Whether you’re an athlete who pulled a hamstring, someone who strained their back lifting something, or you’re dealing with chronic muscle pain and tightness that just won’t quit – muscle issues are incredibly common and often poorly managed. Here’s what happens with muscle injuries: the initial tear or strain causes bleeding and inflammation (necessary for healing), but then the healing process often goes wrong. Instead of the muscle fibers regenerating and aligning properly, scar tissue forms. This scar tissue is disorganized, less elastic, and weaker than normal muscle tissue. Adhesions develop between muscle layers, between muscles and fascia, and within the muscle itself – these literally glue tissues together that should slide smoothly past each other. The result is restricted movement, persistent pain, and vulnerability to re-injury. Making matters worse, muscles can develop trigger points – these are areas of sustained contraction where the muscle fibers literally won’t relax. The prevailing theory is that these areas have dysfunctional motor endplates (where nerves connect to muscle) that continuously fire, keeping the muscle in a contracted state. These trigger points restrict blood flow (because contracted muscle tissue compresses its own blood vessels), create referred pain patterns, and contribute to chronic regional pain syndromes. At a cellular level, injured or dysfunctional muscles also show mitochondrial problems – the energy-producing organelles in muscle cells aren’t working efficiently, so the muscle fatigues easily and doesn’t have enough ATP to relax properly or repair effectively. Conventional treatments like stretching, massage, and rest help some, but often don’t address the underlying cellular and structural dysfunction.

SoftWave releases those adhesions, improves mitochondrial function, increases microcirculation, and promotes proper healing.

Why SoftWave is so effective for muscle problems:

The effects of SoftWave on muscle tissue are multifaceted and really address all the ways muscles can get stuck. First, the mechanical waves literally break up adhesions and scar tissue. This isn’t done violently – it’s a controlled process where the shockwaves disrupt the abnormal collagen bonds while stimulating proper remodeling. Think of it like taking tangled Christmas lights and carefully organizing them rather than just cutting through the mess. The result is restored glide between tissue layers and improved muscle extensibility. Second, SoftWave has a powerful effect on trigger points. The mechanical stimulation causes those dysfunctional motor endplates to reset, breaking the contraction cycle. The muscle fibers can finally relax, blood flow is restored, and metabolic waste products that have accumulated get cleared out. Patients often feel trigger points release during or immediately after treatment. Third – and this is fascinating from a cellular biology perspective – SoftWave improves mitochondrial function in muscle cells. Studies show increased mitochondrial biogenesis (the creation of new mitochondria) and improved mitochondrial respiratory capacity after shockwave treatment. This means muscle cells have more energy available for contraction, relaxation, and repair. Fatigued, dysfunctional muscles literally get their energy systems upgraded. Fourth, the increased microcirculation brings fresh oxygen and nutrients while removing metabolic waste. This creates an optimal environment for muscle tissue repair and regeneration. For athletes specifically, this translates to faster recovery between training sessions, reduced chronic tightness and soreness, and lower risk of re-injury. We’re seeing competitive athletes (like myself – I still train hard) maintain better tissue quality and recover from training stress much more effectively when incorporating SoftWave into their recovery protocols.

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8. Bone Healing, Stress Fractures & Non-Unions

Shockwave therapy is used in orthopedics worldwide for bone regeneration, and this is actually one of the longest-established applications of the technology. Bones are remarkable structures that can heal from fractures in most cases, but sometimes that healing process fails. A non-union is when a fracture simply won’t heal even after months – the bone ends don’t reconnect, and instead a fibrous tissue forms in the gap. A delayed union is when healing is happening but far too slowly. Stress fractures (tiny cracks in bone from repetitive loading) can become chronic and fail to heal if not managed properly. Why do these healing failures happen? Several reasons: inadequate blood supply to the fracture site is a major factor – bone healing requires robust vascular in-growth to bring healing cells and nutrients. Excessive movement at the fracture site can prevent healing. Infection can disrupt the healing process. But often, even without these obvious mechanical problems, the biological signals just aren’t strong enough. The osteoblasts (bone-forming cells) aren’t activated sufficiently. The osteoclasts (bone-resorbing cells) might be too active, creating more breakdown than buildup. Growth factors like BMPs (bone morphogenetic proteins) might not be expressed at high enough levels. The stem cells that need to differentiate into bone cells might not be recruited to the area. Conventional treatment for non-unions has been limited: continued immobilization (which doesn’t work if you’ve already tried that), bone grafting surgery (invasive and not always successful), or bone stimulators (electrical or ultrasound devices with mixed success rates). For stress fractures in athletes, the standard approach is simply prolonged rest – often months of no training, which is devastating for competitive athletes.

SoftWave stimulates:

• Osteoblast (bone-forming cell) activity
• Bone growth proteins
• Blood vessel formation in bone tissue
• Stalled healing processes

Why SoftWave is valuable for bone injuries:

The research on shockwave therapy for bone healing is extensive and really compelling. Here’s what’s happening at a cellular level: SoftWave creates controlled micro-trauma in the bone tissue at the fracture site or stress fracture area. This might sound counterintuitive – you’re essentially creating micro-damage to help healing – but it works because it triggers a robust repair response. The mechanical stimulation activates osteoblasts and dramatically upregulates their activity. These cells start producing new bone matrix much more actively. Second, SoftWave significantly increases the expression of BMPs (bone morphogenetic proteins), which are the master regulators of bone formation. BMP-2 and BMP-7 in particular are potent stimulators of bone healing, and pharmaceutical versions of these proteins are used in spinal fusion surgeries (they’re extremely expensive and have risks). SoftWave naturally upregulates your body’s own BMP production. Third, the angiogenesis effect is crucial for bone healing – bones need blood supply to heal, and SoftWave stimulates new vessel formation in and around the fracture site. This brings oxygen, nutrients, and healing cells (mesenchymal stem cells, osteoprogenitor cells) to where they’re needed. Fourth, SoftWave helps remodel the callus tissue that forms during bone healing. Sometimes bones heal but with excessive or disorganized callus formation that can cause pain or functional problems. The mechanical stimulation from SoftWave helps organize this callus into more normal bone architecture. For non-unions specifically, multiple studies show that shockwave therapy can achieve union (successful healing) in 60-80% of cases that had failed all other conservative treatments – that’s remarkable considering these are cases where surgery would otherwise be the only option. For stress fractures in athletes, SoftWave can accelerate healing time by 30-50% compared to rest alone, getting them back to training much faster. The non-invasive nature is a huge advantage – no surgery, no hardware, no bone graft harvesting from elsewhere in the body. Just focused mechanical stimulation that tells the bone: “It’s time to heal.”

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9. Sexual Health (Erectile Dysfunction & Peyronie’s Disease)

This might surprise people, but there’s actually DECADES of research on shockwave for sexual health, and it’s one of the most evidence-based applications outside of musculoskeletal conditions. Erectile dysfunction affects an estimated 30 million men in the US alone, and the numbers increase dramatically with age – by age 70, about 70% of men experience some degree of ED. For years, the only options were medications (Viagra, Cialis), vacuum devices, injections directly into the penis, or surgical implants. While these can be effective, they’re treating symptoms, not the underlying cause. The root issue in most cases of ED is vascular – the small blood vessels (arterioles) in the penis are damaged or dysfunctional. This vascular damage is often the FIRST sign of cardiovascular disease; in fact, ED is considered a predictor of heart attacks and strokes because it indicates systemic vascular problems. The endothelial cells lining blood vessels don’t produce enough nitric oxide (the molecule that causes blood vessels to dilate and allow blood flow). Over time, the smooth muscle in the corpora cavernosa (the erectile chambers in the penis) can fibrose (become scar-like) and lose its ability to expand properly. Nerve function can also be impaired, further reducing erectile capability. Peyronie’s disease is a related but distinct condition where fibrous plaques form in the penis, causing curvature, pain, and erectile dysfunction. These plaques are essentially thick scar tissue that restricts the normal expansion of the penis during erection. Both conditions have been incredibly frustrating to treat beyond symptom management – until shockwave therapy came along.

The mechanisms make perfect sense:

• Creates new blood vessel formation
• Improves microcirculation
• Reduces fibrosis/plaque in Peyronie’s
• Enhances nerve function
• Improves nitric oxide signaling

Why SoftWave is revolutionizing men’s sexual health:

The research here is honestly some of the most impressive I’ve seen, and it’s coming from major urology centers worldwide. Here’s what’s happening: SoftWave stimulates neovascularization (the formation of new blood vessels) in penile tissue. Studies using imaging techniques show measurable increases in penile blood vessel density after treatment. This isn’t temporary dilation from a pill – these are actual new vessels that permanently improve blood flow capacity. The mechanism involves upregulation of VEGF and eNOS (endothelial nitric oxide synthase), which drive angiogenesis and improve the endothelium’s ability to produce nitric oxide. Essentially, SoftWave is repairing the vascular damage that caused the ED in the first place. Second, the mechanical stimulation from SoftWave breaks up fibrotic tissue in the corpora cavernosa and activates tissue remodeling. This restores elasticity and expandability to the erectile chambers. For Peyronie’s disease specifically, SoftWave helps break down the fibrotic plaques (without surgery) and reduces penile curvature while improving erectile function. Studies show significant reduction in plaque size and curvature improvement in 60-70% of patients. Third, SoftWave appears to enhance nerve function – both the autonomic nerves that control the erectile reflex and the sensory nerves that contribute to sexual pleasure. This is particularly important for men who’ve had nerve-sparing prostate surgery but still developed ED. The clinical results are remarkable: studies show that 70-80% of men with mild to moderate ED experience significant improvement with low-intensity shockwave therapy, with effects lasting 1-2 years or longer. Many men who were dependent on medications can reduce or eliminate their need for pills. Some men who didn’t respond to medications at all start responding after shockwave treatment (because we’ve improved the underlying vascular function). The treatment is non-invasive, has no significant side effects, and addresses the ROOT CAUSE rather than just managing symptoms. This is truly a paradigm shift in how we approach sexual health.

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10. Scar Tissue, Fibrosis & Post-Surgical Stiffness

Scar tissue is dense, disorganized collagen that lacks elasticity, and it’s one of the most common causes of chronic pain and disability that people don’t fully understand. Whenever you have an injury (surgical or otherwise), your body’s healing response involves laying down collagen to repair the damaged tissue. That’s normal and necessary. But the problem is that scar tissue is fundamentally different from the original tissue it’s replacing. Normal healthy tissue has highly organized collagen fibers arranged in specific patterns that allow for strength, elasticity, and proper function. Scar tissue has collagen fibers that are laid down haphazardly, in a chaotic crosshatched pattern. This makes it less flexible, less strong, and less functional than normal tissue. Moreover, scar tissue doesn’t have the same blood supply, nerve supply, or cellular composition as healthy tissue. As scar tissue matures, it can contract and thicken (a process called fibrosis), and this contracture can restrict movement, compress nerves, and create chronic pain. Post-surgical adhesions are a particularly problematic type of scar tissue where the scar literally glues structures together that should move independently – for example, adhesions after abdominal surgery can bind organs together or to the abdominal wall, causing chronic pain and even bowel obstructions. After orthopedic surgery (shoulder, knee, etc.), capsular fibrosis can severely limit range of motion. C-section scars can cause pelvic pain, restriction, and even fertility problems. The conventional approach to problematic scar tissue has been limited: if it’s causing severe functional problems, you might need surgery to remove it (but surgery creates MORE scar tissue, so it’s often a losing battle). Physical therapy can help stretch tissues but can’t actually change the structure of the scar. Massage and other manual therapies can provide some relief but often only temporarily.

SoftWave:

• Reduces the main pro-fibrosis molecule (TGF-β1)
• Improves collagen alignment
• Breaks up adhesions
• Restores elasticity between tissue layers
• Frees trapped nerves

Why SoftWave can remodel scar tissue when nothing else works:

This is where the science gets really exciting because we’re talking about actually CHANGING the structure of scar tissue – something that’s been considered essentially permanent. Here’s the mechanism: SoftWave reduces TGF-β1 (transforming growth factor beta-1), which is the master regulator of fibrosis. High levels of TGF-β1 drive excessive scar formation and fibrotic tissue changes. By downregulating this molecule, SoftWave essentially tells the tissue to stop becoming progressively more fibrotic. Second, the mechanical waves create controlled micro-disruption in the scar tissue. This breaks up those chaotic collagen bonds and triggers a remodeling process. But here’s the key: instead of just breaking down the scar, SoftWave simultaneously activates fibroblasts to lay down NEW collagen in a more organized pattern. The mechanical stimulation literally guides the collagen fibers to align more normally, similar to how healthy tissue is organized. This process takes time (weeks to months), but the result is scar tissue that becomes more elastic, more functional, and less painful. Third, SoftWave improves vascularization in the scar tissue. Scars are notoriously poorly vascularized, but by stimulating angiogenesis, we’re bringing blood flow back to the area. This delivers oxygen and nutrients that support healthy tissue remodeling and also helps clear out inflammatory mediators and metabolic waste. Fourth, for adhesions specifically, the mechanical energy helps separate tissues that have been stuck together. Combined with movement and exercise after treatment, this can restore the normal gliding and sliding that should occur between tissue planes. For nerves that have become trapped in scar tissue (a common cause of chronic post-surgical pain), freeing them from the fibrous matrix can provide dramatic pain relief. Studies on hypertrophic scars (raised, thick scars) and keloids show that shockwave therapy can reduce scar height, improve texture and elasticity, reduce pain and itching, and improve cosmetic appearance. For functional problems like limited shoulder range of motion after rotator cuff surgery or restricted hip mobility after hip replacement, adding SoftWave to a rehab program can dramatically improve outcomes. People regain movement they thought was permanently lost. Surgical scars that have caused years of pain and restriction can become soft, pliable, and pain-free. This is tissue regeneration and remodeling at a level we simply couldn’t achieve before.

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Why I’m Excited About Adding SoftWave to Our Practice

Look – I’ve always been committed to helping people heal at the root cause level. That’s why chiropractic care, functional nutrition, and lifestyle optimization are the foundation of everything we do here.

But when I saw the RESEARCH behind SoftWave… when I saw the mechanisms… when I started experiencing the results with our own patients…

I knew this was the missing piece for so many people.

Because here’s the reality: sometimes the body WANTS to heal, but something is blocking that signal.

Maybe it’s:

• Poor circulation to an area
• Chronic nerve irritation
• Disorganized scar tissue
• Inflammatory chemicals that won’t clear
• Stem cells not being recruited

SoftWave provides that biological trigger to GET PAST the block.

And when you combine it with proper spinal alignment, optimal nervous system function, good nutrition, and healthy lifestyle habits?

That’s when real transformation happens.

If Your Condition Hasn’t Healed… There’s a Reason

I hear this ALL THE TIME in my practice:

“Dr. Justin, I’ve tried everything – physical therapy, stretching, injections, medications – but nothing has worked.”

In most cases, the problem wasn’t that those treatments are “bad.” The problem was they weren’t addressing the biological environment that was preventing healing.

SoftWave changes that environment.

It turns on healing pathways. It brings blood flow. It calms nerve inflammation. It recruits stem cells. It signals tissue to remodel properly.

Your body WANTS to heal – it just needs the right support.

Ready to Experience What SoftWave Can Do?

If you’re local to Minnetonka, Hopkins, or anywhere in the Twin Cities area and you’re dealing with:

• Chronic pain that won’t resolve
• Injuries that won’t heal
• Nerve issues
• Joint degeneration
• Or any of the conditions we covered today

I’d love to see if SoftWave can help you finally move forward.

Schedule your first session and let’s see what your body is capable of when we remove the interference and turn on healing.

📞 Call us at (952) 229-8750 or visit drjustinlee.com to book

Because you’re not broken. You just need the right signal.

– Dr. Justin Lee, D.C. Minnetonka Family Chiropractic

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Want to learn more about how we’re using SoftWave in our practice? Follow along on Instagram @drjustinjlee where I share patient wins, behind-the-scenes insights, and practical health tips you can use right away.

Reference List

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Tendinopathy & Neuropathic Pain Mechanisms

1. Ackermann PW. “The Emerging Role of Nerves in Tendon Pain and Pathology.” Journal of Orthopaedic Research. 2022.
2. Spang C, et al. “Innervation Patterns in Healthy and Pathologic Tendons.” Frontiers in Molecular Neuroscience. 2018.
3. Schizas N, et al. “Substance P, CGRP, and Glutamate in Chronic Achilles Tendinopathy.” British Journal of Sports Medicine. 2017.
4. Zanetti M, et al. “Paratenon Innervation in Chronic Tendon Pain.” American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2020.
5. Scott A, Backman LJ. “The Nerve–Mast Cell–Tenocyte Axis in Tendon Pain.” Nature Reviews Rheumatology. 2019.
6. Maffulli N, Longo UG. “Tenocyte Activation in Tendinopathy.” Clinical Sports Medicine. 2018.
7. Khan MH, et al. “Mast Cells in Tendon Healing and Disease.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2021.

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ESWT / SoftWave Mechanisms: Neuromodulation, Regeneration, Angiogenesis

8. Hausdorf J, et al. “Reduction of Substance P in Musculoskeletal Tissue After Shockwave Therapy.” Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research. 2005.
9. Maier M, et al. “Effects of Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy on Peripheral Nerves.” Journal of Orthopaedic Research. 2020.
10. Al Abadi H, et al. “Shockwave Therapy and Neurogenic Inflammation Modulation.” Pain Physician. 2021.
11. Wang CJ. “Biological Effects of Extracorporeal Shockwave in Musculoskeletal Disorders.” Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research. 2012.
12. Notarnicola A, Moretti B. “Shockwave-Induced Tendon Regeneration.” Muscles, Ligaments, Tendons Journal. 2012.
13. Gerdesmeyer L, et al. “Shockwave-Induced Mechanotransduction and TLR3 Activation.” Journal of Translational Medicine. 2019.
14. Császár NB, Schmitz C. “Electrohydraulic Unfocused Shockwaves & Tissue Regeneration.” Journal of Endourology. 2019.

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SoftWave / ESWT for Tendons, Fascia & Musculoskeletal Disorders

15. Rompe JD, et al. “Shockwave Therapy for Chronic Tendinopathies: Systematic Review.” American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2007.
16. Gerdesmeyer L, et al. “ESWT in Plantar Fasciitis: Randomized Controlled Trial.” Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. 2008.
17. Hoogvliet P, et al. “Steroid vs Shockwave in Chronic Plantar Fasciitis.” Clinical Rehabilitation. 2023.
18. Speed C. “Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy in Tendinopathy.” Rheumatology. 2014.

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ESWT / SoftWave for Wound Care, Burns, Skin Healing

19. Schaden W, et al. “ESWT for Chronic Soft Tissue Wounds.” Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery. 2007.
20. Saggini R, et al. “Shockwave Therapy in Diabetic Foot Ulcers.” International Wound Journal. 2008.
21. Ottomann C, et al. “Shockwave Therapy Accelerates Burn Wound Healing.” Burns. 2012.
22. FDA 510(k) Clearances for SoftWave/DermaGold: Chronic Wounds & Burns (K200555, K210524).

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Nerve Regeneration & Neuropathy Applications

23. Hausner T, et al. “ESWT Promotes Schwann Cell Proliferation and Nerve Regeneration.” Muscle & Nerve. 2012.
24. Ying Z, et al. “Shockwave Therapy Improves Nerve Conduction Velocity.” Neuroscience Letters. 2014.

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Osteoarthritis & Joint Degeneration

25. Zhao Z, et al. “Shockwave Therapy in Knee Osteoarthritis.” Clinical Interventions in Aging. 2013.
26. Frisbie DD, et al. “cartilage metabolism improvement after shockwave therapy.” American Journal of Veterinary Research. 2009.

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Bone Healing & Stress Fractures

27. Wang CJ, et al. “Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy for Nonunions.” Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research. 2001.
28. Tischer T, et al. “Shockwave-Induced Osteoblast Activation.” Journal of Orthopaedic Research. 2008.

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Sexual Health (ED & Peyronie’s Disease)

29. Vardi Y, et al. “Low-Intensity Shockwave Therapy for Vasculogenic ED.” European Urology. 2010.
30. Sokolakis I, et al. “Shockwave Therapy in Erectile Dysfunction: Systematic Review.” Urology. 2019.

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Scar Tissue, Fibrosis, and Soft Tissue Remodeling

31. Kisch T, et al. “Shockwave Therapy and TGF-β1 Reduction in Fibrosis.” PLoS ONE. 2017.
32. Fioramonti P, et al. “ESWT Improves Scar Elasticity and Tissue Quality.” Aesthetic Surgery Journal. 2016.