Your SoftWave Questions, Answered

SoftWave is an FDA-cleared, non-invasive treatment that uses gentle electrohydraulic pulse waves to restart your body’s own repair process. It increases blood flow, activates your regenerative cells, and calms inflammation at the source of your pain, with no drugs, needles, or downtime. Learn how it works.

Most clinics use radial pressure devices, where a projectile strikes a metal tip. SoftWave uses electrohydraulic technology: a spark in a fluid chamber creates a true acoustic wave that covers a broad area and reaches deep tissue. It stimulates repair without causing microtrauma, and most patients find it more comfortable.

Yes. SoftWave’s electrohydraulic technology is FDA-cleared for pain reduction, temporarily increased blood supply, and activation of connective tissue. The same underlying technology is also cleared to treat chronic diabetic foot ulcers and acute second-degree burns.

We commonly treat plantar fasciitis, knee pain, shoulder pain, sports injuries, neuropathy, and arthritis, along with back pain, neck pain, tendinitis, and other musculoskeletal conditions. See all conditions we treat.

Most patients feel a deep pulsing or tapping sensation, not pain. No anesthesia or numbing is needed, and the intensity can be adjusted to keep you comfortable.

Most treatment areas take just 5–10 minutes as your provider moves the applicator over the targeted area.

Many patients notice improvement within 3–5 sessions. Most conditions respond in 3–6 sessions, while chronic or long-standing conditions, such as neuropathy, often benefit from a full course of 6–10 sessions. We’ll recommend a plan after your consultation.

Sessions are usually spaced about a week apart, which gives your body time to respond between treatments. Your provider will set a schedule that fits your condition.

Yes. Many patients have more than one area treated in the same visit, such as both heels or a knee and a hip.

No. Most patients drive themselves home or go straight back to work, and you can usually keep up your normal activities. We’ll give you activity guidance based on your condition.

Some patients feel relief after their first session, and most notice clear improvement within 3–5 sessions. Because SoftWave stimulates real tissue repair, results keep building for weeks after treatment.

Because SoftWave works by helping tissue heal rather than masking pain, results are often long-lasting. Some patients come back for a follow-up session if symptoms return or after a new injury.

Often, yes. Many of our patients come to us after other treatments only gave temporary relief. SoftWave works differently, by stimulating repair at the source of the pain.

For many patients, SoftWave is a way to avoid or delay surgery. Every case is different, so Dr. Gillis will give you an honest assessment of whether SoftWave is a reasonable option for you.

Side effects are usually mild and short-lived, such as temporary redness, tenderness, or soreness in the treated area.

Most people are good candidates, but let us know during your consultation if you:

• Are pregnant
• Have a pacemaker or other implanted device
• Take blood-thinning medication
• Have cancer or a tumor near the treatment area
• Have an active infection at the treatment site

These don’t always rule out treatment, but we’ll review your health history to make sure SoftWave is safe for you.

Many patients with diabetes are good candidates, and the underlying technology is FDA-cleared for diabetic foot ulcers. We’ll review your health history during your consultation.

Yes. At Harbor Family Chiropractic, SoftWave often works alongside chiropractic adjustments and rehab exercises to support a more complete recovery.

Yes. Your SoftWave consultation is free with no obligation. It’s a chance to talk through your pain and find out whether SoftWave is a good fit.

Pricing depends on the area being treated and the number of sessions you need. We’ll give you clear pricing at your free consultation before you commit to anything.

SoftWave is typically not covered by insurance, but HSA/FSA funds and financing options are often available.

HSA and FSA funds can often be used for SoftWave. Check with your plan administrator, and we’re happy to provide the documentation you need.

We’re inside Harbor Family Chiropractic at 1831 Orange Avenue, Suite B, Costa Mesa, CA 92627, serving Costa Mesa and all of Orange County. Get directions.

Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Bring any recent imaging or reports (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound) related to your pain, a list of current medications, and comfortable clothing that allows access to the area of concern.

No referral is needed. You can contact us directly to schedule your consultation.

Call us at (949) 515-5170 or send us a message. We usually respond the same business day.