Piezowave therapy, a form of piezoelectric shockwave therapy, is widely used in medical practices for treating various conditions, including musculoskeletal disorders, plantar fasciitis, and erectile dysfunction. Unlike some other shockwave modalities, piezoelectric shockwave therapy is known for its precision and durability, making it a popular option for doctors seeking focused therapy for patients. This blog will break down the key mechanisms of piezoelectric therapy, assess its clinical efficacy, and explore viable alternatives.
What is Piezoelectric Shockwave Therapy?
Piezoelectric shockwave therapy (PST) utilizes an array of piezoelectric crystals arranged on a concave surface, which deform rapidly when a high-voltage pulse is applied, generating a pressure pulse in the surrounding fluid. These pulses self-focus toward a precise focal point due to the geometric arrangement of the crystals, eliminating the need for an external reflector. This direct focusing mechanism results in a well-defined, high-energy density shockwave at a controlled depth (typically 0–6 cm). Modern systems can use single or double crystal layers to adjust focal size and energy distribution, allowing for versatility in treatment.
Piezoelectric devices provide a more controlled and reproducible energy output, with lower total energy per pulse, making them generally tolerable for patients.
Piezoelectric Shockwave Therapy Device Example
Piezoelectric devices like Piezowave generate highly focused shockwaves by activating an array of piezoelectric crystals, which emit pressure pulses that self-focus to a precise point within the tissue. This targeted energy delivery makes Piezowave particularly effective for treating localized conditions such as tendinopathies, trigger points, and calcific deposits. While generally well-tolerated, higher intensity treatments can cause discomfort due to the high peak pressure concentrated in a small focal zone, with reported values reaching up to 82 MPa.
Piezowave systems feature single- and double-layer piezo configurations, allowing practitioners to adjust energy levels and focal characteristics to suit different treatment needs. However, due to its narrow focal zone, treating larger areas may require multiple applications to ensure full coverage.
Read more: Piezowave Machines: Cost, Efficacy, & Alternatives
Evaluating the Efficacy of Piezoelectric Shockwave Therapy
Piezoelectric shockwave therapy, specifically the Piezowave device, has been extensively studied for its efficacy in treating various medical conditions. Clinical studies and research have highlighted the effectiveness of Piezowave therapy in areas such as musculoskeletal disorders, erectile dysfunction, and chronic pain management.
A significant study assessing the treatment of vasculogenic erectile dysfunction (ED) using the Piezowave2 device demonstrated promising results. The study employed a novel Linear Shockwave Tissue Coverage (LSTC-ED®) technique to apply low-intensity shockwaves across the entire penile area, improving blood flow and inducing neovascularization. This multicentric, placebo-controlled study found that the use of piezoelectric elements in shockwave therapy led to significant improvements in erectile function, with shorter treatment durations compared to other devices in the market. The study highlights that these results were achieved through enhanced tissue regeneration and precise targeting of the penile vasculature, showcasing the unique capabilities of piezoelectric shockwave technology (Motil et al., 2016).
In the realm of plantar fasciitis (PF), a study focusing on piezoelectric shockwave therapy demonstrated similarly positive outcomes. The treatment involved three sessions using the PiezoWave F10 G4 generator. Patients experienced significant reductions in pain, as measured by the Visual Analogue Scale, both during the course of the treatment and in follow-ups at three and six months post-treatment. The precise delivery of shockwaves, coupled with echographic support, allowed for targeted therapy that led to long-term improvements in pain relief and functional recovery (Vaamonde-Lorenzo et al., 2020).
Piezowave 2 Side Effects
Piezowave shockwave therapy is generally safe and well-tolerated, with minimal risk when applied according to proper medical guidelines. Reported side effects are typically mild and temporary, including short-term pain, redness, or bruising at the treatment site, which usually resolves quickly. While discomfort may occur, particularly at higher energy settings, it is often manageable without anesthesia.
Serious adverse events are exceedingly rare, with no reports of permanent injuries in clinical studies. However, as with any shockwave therapy, patient sensitivity, treatment intensity, and the targeted area can influence post-treatment reactions.
Limitations of Piezowave Therapy
Despite the success of Piezowave therapy, there are limitations. The therapy excels in treating localized conditions due to its focused shockwave technology, but its small focal zone means it may require multiple precise applications to cover larger treatment areas effectively. Additionally, higher peak pressure at the focal point can lead to more discomfort compared to broad-focused systems, especially at high-intensity settings.
Furthermore, piezoelectric devices generally have lower total energy output per pulse, which may necessitate more treatment sessions for deeper tissue conditions. While Piezowave allows for adjustable focal depths, it does not penetrate as deeply or broadly, making it less effective for diffuse musculoskeletal injuries, widespread inflammation, or large-area regenerative applications.
Piezoelectric Shockwave Therapy Alternatives
While piezoelectric shockwave therapy offers targeted treatment with high precision, certain conditions may benefit from alternative therapies that provide broader tissue coverage or different mechanisms of action. Here are a few notable alternatives:
1. SoftWave Therapy
SoftWave therapy stands out for its broad-focused shockwave technology, which effectively promotes healing across larger tissue areas. Its patented parabolic applicator delivers energy over a 7cm x 12cm treatment zone, reaching both superficial and deep tissues in a single session. This wide coverage accelerates healing, reduces the number of treatments needed, and enhances patient outcomes for conditions such as chronic pain, musculoskeletal injuries, and wound care.
SoftWave therapy is particularly effective at stimulating angiogenesis and reducing inflammation, making it a preferred option for regenerative medicine and chronic pain management. Its non-invasive design ensures a comfortable treatment experience, allowing physicians to provide efficient, high-impact therapy with minimal patient discomfort.
2. Ultrasound Therapy
Ultrasound therapy utilizes high-frequency sound waves that penetrate deep into tissues, promoting cellular repair and enhancing blood flow. Primarily applied in physical therapy, ultrasound is highly effective for treating deep muscle injuries and facilitating tissue healing. By generating localized heat, ultrasound therapy enhances metabolic activity in tissues, further aiding recovery. It is often recommended as a supplemental treatment to shockwave therapy, particularly for musculoskeletal conditions, due to its deep tissue reach and ability to increase flexibility and range of motion.
3. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
Also known as cold laser therapy, Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) uses low-intensity laser light to stimulate cellular function and tissue repair. It is non-invasive and painless, targeting inflammation and promoting cellular regeneration without thermal damage. This therapy is commonly used for chronic pain management and injury recovery, especially in patients who are unable to tolerate other forms of shockwave or high-intensity therapies. LLLT has been particularly beneficial for soft tissue injuries and joint pain, as it can enhance cellular energy production, accelerating the healing process without significant side effects.
4. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections
PRP therapy uses a concentration of the patient’s own platelets, rich in growth factors, to enhance the body’s natural healing process. Injected into injured or inflamed areas, PRP stimulates tissue regeneration and collagen production, making it an ideal choice for soft tissue injuries, tendonitis, and joint degeneration. Unlike shockwave therapy, PRP requires a minimally invasive procedure but offers a potent regenerative effect due to its bioactive properties, encouraging healing at the cellular level. PRP can also be combined with physical therapy or shockwave therapy to optimize patient recovery outcomes.
5. Corticosteroid Injections
Corticosteroid injections provide immediate relief by delivering anti-inflammatory medication directly to the affected area. Although they do not promote long-term healing, corticosteroids can significantly reduce inflammation and pain in conditions such as tendonitis or arthritis. Often used in conjunction with other regenerative therapies, corticosteroids offer temporary symptomatic relief, which can be beneficial during acute phases of injury recovery. However, due to the potential for side effects with repeated use, corticosteroids are typically applied as a short-term intervention.
6. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy encompasses a range of tailored exercises and manual therapies designed to restore mobility, improve muscle strength, and support long-term recovery. As a core component of rehabilitation, physical therapy is often used alongside shockwave, ultrasound, or PRP treatments to create a comprehensive recovery plan. Physical therapy is particularly beneficial for patients with chronic musculoskeletal issues, as it addresses underlying biomechanical factors contributing to pain and dysfunction, complementing regenerative treatments and enabling sustainable recovery.
Why SoftWave Therapy Devices Stand Out Vs. Piezowave Therapy Alternatives
SoftWave therapy offers key advantages over other shockwave devices and alternatives due to its advanced technology, broad applicability, noninvasiveness, and proven clinical outcomes.
Most notably, the SoftWave Gold Li Series device represents an advanced shockwave therapy system, offering a superior, broad-focused treatment approach that enhances healing while minimizing patient discomfort. Formerly known as OrthoGold, UroGold, and DermaGold, this next-generation system provides faster recovery times, deeper tissue activation, and a wider treatment area compared to conventional shockwave devices. SoftWave’s patented electrohydraulic technology delivers optimized energy distribution, stimulating natural healing processes without causing microtrauma. These advantages make SoftWave the preferred choice for musculoskeletal, urology, and wound care applications, helping practitioners achieve better patient outcomes with fewer treatment sessions.
SoftWave Gold Li Series Device Applications:
1. Musculoskeletal (Formerly OrthoGold)
For: Orthopedists, MDs, Physiatrists, Podiatrists, Physical Therapists, Chiropractors
Treats chronic pain, tendinopathies, and musculoskeletal injuries by reducing inflammation, stimulating deep tissue repair, and improving mobility.
2. Urology (Formerly UroGold)
For: Urologists, Urogynecologists, Pelvic Health Specialists
Supports vascular regeneration and tissue repair, making it a promising option for urological applications. Health Canada Licensed
3. Dermatology & Wound Care (Formerly DermaGold)
For: Dermatologists, Podiatrists, Neurologists
FDA-cleared for chronic diabetic foot ulcers and acute second-degree burns, SoftWave accelerates wound healing by increasing blood supply and stimulating tissue regeneration.
Key Benefits for Medical Practitioners
- FDA Clearances: Cleared for several indications, including connective tissue activation, wound healing, and pain reduction.
- Ease of Use: SoftWave devices are user-friendly and adaptable, requiring minimal setup and short treatment times.
- Broad Treatment Range: SoftWave is applicable across specialties, from orthopedics to urology, offering a versatile solution for various patient needs.
Piezowave vs. SoftWave Therapy (Electrohydraulic ESWT)
While Piezowave delivers highly focused shockwaves, SoftWave Therapy (Electrohydraulic ESWT) distributes energy over a much larger area. Here’s a comparison:
| Feature | Piezowave (Piezoelectric ESWT) | SoftWave (Broad-Focused Electrohydraulic ESWT) |
| Shockwave Generation | Directly focused by piezo crystals | Spark discharge with a parabolic reflector |
| Focal Zone | Small and pinpointed | Large, broad energy distribution (7cm x 12cm) |
| Tissue Penetration | 0–6 cm | Deeper penetration (up to 7 cm) |
| Pain Level | Can be uncomfortable due to high energy at a single point | More tolerable due to energy dispersion |
| Need for Anesthesia? | Sometimes required for high-energy treatments | No anesthesia needed in most cases |
| Best For | Localized conditions (trigger points, calcific deposits, tendinopathies) | Larger treatment areas, inflammation modulation, wound healing |
| Post-Treatment Soreness | More likely due to high pressure in a small zone | Less likely, as energy is spread evenly |
For clinics seeking to expand their treatment options and deliver better patient outcomes, SoftWave therapy offers an advanced, non-invasive solution. To discover how the best shockwave therapy for providers can enhance your practice, contact us today and explore the benefits of integrating SoftWave for superior patient care.
