Stemwave Therapy

What is StemWave?

StemWave® is a non-invasive acoustic (shock) wave therapy. A handheld device delivers focused, high-energy sound waves into injured or painful tissue. Those mechanical waves create a micro-stimulation that can reduce pain and trigger the body’s repair signals - a process called mechanotransduction.¹

In plain English: we use sound waves to “wake up” a sluggish healing response - without needles, meds, or surgery.²

Common conditions it’s used for

Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
Achilles and patellar tendinopathy
Tennis/golfer’s elbow (lateral/medial epicondylalgia)
Rotator cuff and shoulder tendinopath
Hip, knee, and low-back soft-tissue pain
Chronic trigger points and scar tissue sensitivity

These are typical musculoskeletal uses reported by clinics and the device maker. Individual results vary.^2,3

How a Physical Therapist Integrates StemWave

1) Evaluation & targeting

Your PT starts with a musculoskeletal assessment - history, palpation, movement tests, and strength/length screens. We use this to pinpoint the pain generator and set safe starting parameters for the device. Focused acoustic waves can then be directed precisely to the involved tissue.²

2) The session

Setup: Gel on the skin; the applicator glides over the target area.
Dose: Treatments are typically brief (about 3–8 minutes per region). You’ll feel pulsing/tapping that’s adjustable to comfort.²
After: Mild soreness or redness can occur for 24–48 hours, similar to a workout response.

3) Active rehab to lock in gains

StemWave changes tissue signaling; rehab changes how that tissue works. Your PT pairs treatments with:

Progressive loading (eccentrics/isometrics) to remodel tendon and fascia
Mobility & nerve glides where needed
Motor control & gait retraining so improvements transfer to daily life/sport

4) Plan of care

Most plans start with weekly sessions for several weeks alongside your exercise program, then taper as pain eases and function improves. Your PT will individualize frequency and exercises based on your condition and response.

Why choose StemWave with PT?

Non-invasive & drug-free option that fits between basic care and injections/surgery.²
Precisely focused energy for stubborn soft-tissue problems.²
Fast appointments that integrate seamlessly with your exercise session.²

FAQs

Is StemWave the same as “shockwave”?
“StemWave” is a branded device delivering focused acoustic (shock) waves. Functionally, it’s a type of shockwave therapy used for musculoskeletal care.⁴
What does it feel like?
A tapping/pulsing sensation that we adjust to a tolerable level. Sessions are short, and intensity is tailored to you.²

How soon will I notice changes?
Some people feel relief after the first few visits; others progress steadily over several weeks as loading and daily activity are reintroduced. Responses vary.

Is it FDA “approved”?
The manufacturer describes the device as FDA-listed and non-invasive for musculoskeletal use. Ask your provider for details on indications and documentation.⁵

What a Typical Visit Looks Like

Re-check pain and function (e.g., first-step pain for plantar fasciitis)
StemWave to the primary target and related kinetic-chain hotspots
Structured exercise block (loading, mobility, motor control)
Home plan updates (sets/reps, activity modifications, pacing)
Milestone tracking (pain scores, strength, return-to-work/sport metrics)

Ready to get started?

If you’ve tried rest, ice, or basic exercises without lasting relief, adding StemWave + targeted physical therapy may help you move with confidence again. Book an evaluation to see if you’re a candidate and to build a plan tailored to your goals.

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