Electrohydraulic energy
SoftWave begins with an underwater electrical spark that generates a true shockwave—not a vibrating surface tool or pneumatic projectile.
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In-clinic treatment · Sandy, Utah
SoftWave
Therapy.
Broad-focused acoustic shockwave therapy designed to engage a larger treatment area—without surgery, injections, or medication.
Start with a free consultation ↗
True shockwaves.
Broad-focused delivery.
Noninvasive care.
What it is
A true shockwave.
A broader field.
SoftWave Therapy is a noninvasive form of extracorporeal shockwave therapy, often abbreviated ESWT. Inside the applicator, a controlled electrical discharge in water creates a rapidly expanding plasma bubble. That event produces a true acoustic shockwave. A patented reflector then shapes and distributes the energy through a broad treatment zone.
That delivery method matters. “Shockwave” is often used as a broad label for devices that do not generate the same waveform. Some systems create radial pressure waves when a projectile strikes an applicator. Other focused devices concentrate energy at a narrow point. SoftWave uses electrohydraulic technology and a broad-focused field intended to reach superficial and deeper tissue across a wider area.
At Soma, technology never replaces clinical judgment. We begin by listening, evaluating the area, and understanding what you want to improve. If SoftWave fits, we explain the purpose of the session, what the device is cleared to do, what remains uncertain, and how we will monitor your response.
Why it is different
Not every “shockwave”
is the same.
Broad-focused delivery
The reflector distributes energy across a larger therapeutic volume instead of concentrating it at one narrow point. This can help a clinician work across tissue layers and a wider area.
Interactive treatment
The applicator is moved over the region while you provide feedback. Areas of sensitivity can help guide the clinician’s attention and adjustments during the session.
Noninvasive visits
No incision or injection is required for SoftWave itself. Treatment is performed in the clinic, and many patients return to normal daily activity afterward.
Regulatory clarity
FDA-cleared
for specific uses.
FDA clearance applies to the device and its defined indications; it is not a promise that every person or condition will improve. The manufacturer identifies the following cleared uses for its systems.
Relief of minor muscle aches and pains
A noninvasive option for temporary symptom relief within the device’s cleared use.
Temporary increase in local blood circulation
Acoustic energy is applied to a defined treatment area to support a temporary increase in local circulation.
Activation of connective tissue
One of the device’s expressly listed cleared indications.
Chronic diabetic foot ulcers
For qualifying adult diabetic patients, wounds no larger than 16 cm² and more than 30 days in duration, used with standard diabetic-ulcer care.
Superficial partial-thickness second-degree burns
For adults age 22 and older, used in conjunction with standard burn-care treatment.
The wound and burn indications have detailed eligibility and standard-of-care requirements. Soma will discuss whether a requested use falls within a cleared indication and whether SoftWave is appropriate for your situation. FDA clearance does not mean risk-free, guaranteed, or suitable for everyone.
Your appointment
What to expect
in the clinic.
Assessment
We review your history, symptoms, goals, medications, prior care, and relevant imaging. We also screen for reasons SoftWave may not be appropriate.
Mapping the area
Gel is applied to help transmit the acoustic energy. The clinician moves the applicator across the region and uses your feedback to identify sensitivity and guide treatment.
Adjustable delivery
You may feel tapping, pressure, tingling, or brief tenderness. Settings and placement can be adjusted for the treatment objective and your comfort.
Reassessment
Progress is evaluated over time. We may adjust the plan, coordinate SoftWave with mobility or recovery support, or recommend a different direction if it is not the right fit.
Patient perspectives
Experiences,
in their own words.
Coming soon
Verified patient perspectives will be added here with permission. Individual experiences vary and do not guarantee a particular result.
Common questions
SoftWave Therapy
FAQ.
What is SoftWave Therapy?+
SoftWave is a noninvasive form of extracorporeal shockwave therapy. Its applicator generates electrohydraulic acoustic shockwaves and distributes them across a broad treatment field. At Soma Health, it is offered in our Sandy clinic after an individualized assessment.
What is SoftWave FDA-cleared for?+
The manufacturer lists clearance for relief of minor muscle aches and pains, temporary increase in local blood circulation, activation of connective tissue, chronic diabetic foot ulcers meeting specific criteria when used with standard care, and superficial partial-thickness second-degree burns in adults when used with standard care.
How is SoftWave different from radial pressure-wave devices?+
SoftWave generates true electrohydraulic shockwaves and uses a patented reflector to shape a broad-focused field. Radial devices generally create pressure waves through a projectile striking an applicator, producing different wave physics and energy distribution.
What does a session feel like?+
Gel is applied to the skin and the applicator is moved across the treatment area. You may feel tapping, pressure, tingling, or brief sensitivity. Your feedback helps the clinician adjust placement and intensity within the treatment protocol.
How long does a visit take?+
The active SoftWave portion is often brief, but appointment length depends on the area being evaluated, your assessment, setup, and whether SoftWave is being coordinated with other services.
Is there downtime?+
SoftWave is noninvasive, and many people return to normal daily activity after a session. Temporary redness, soreness, or swelling can occur. Your clinician will provide guidance based on your health history and treatment area.
How many sessions will I need?+
There is no universal number. Frequency and duration depend on the reason for treatment, response over time, clinical judgment, and the device protocol. We discuss the plan before treatment and reassess rather than promising a fixed outcome.
A considered next step
Start with context.
Then choose care.
Tell us what has been limiting you, what you have tried, and what you want to get back to.
Book a free consultation ↗