SoftWaves are created by means of a high-energy electrical discharge in water. The voltage is discharged between the opposing tips (plus and minus pole) of an electrode. The arcing or spark gap causes an equalization of voltage between the two tips of the electrode whereby a hot plasma bubble is created. This bubble explodes in all directions, compresses the surrounding water, and generates a pressure > 10 MPa within only a few nanoseconds (10-9 ns).
SoftWave low intensity, broad focused energy is delivered via our patented parabolic reflector applicator in the form of parallel waves. SoftWave technology offers the ONLY TRUE SHOCK WAVE on the market. Despite this electrohydraulic shock wave energy in water traveling 5 times faster (3355mph) than in air (767 mph), it does not cause microtrauma.
The SoftWave patented broad focused applicator design makes it possible to spread energy to a large area of both superficial and deep tissue soliciting a biological response to the target area to initiate the body’s natural healing process.
Shock waves are acoustic pulses with high positive pressure, fast and steep rise time followed by comparatively small negative pressure (tensile wave).
Radial pressure waves are acoustic pneumatic pulses with a low steeping effect, slow rise time with comparatively large negative pressure (tensile wave).
The waves are shallow and have the highest energy and pressure located directly at the applicator’s surface.
Shock wave is NOT ultrasound
Ultrasound waves are periodic oscillations with narrow bandwidth and does not have peak pressure and fast rise times.
The column of acoustic energy is wide and deep with the patented SoftWave device.
By comparison, SoftWave can treat a wider and deeper treatment area.
