If you’re visiting our clinic in the North Suburbs of Chicago for your first SoftWave Therapy session, you might be wondering what to expect. This guide will walk you through what you need to know to feel confident and prepared—from how the treatment works to what you may feel afterward. SoftWave is a powerful, non-invasive therapy that helps your body heal naturally—no surgery, injections, or downtime required.
1. It’s Completely Non-Invasive and Drug-Free
SoftWave Therapy uses pulsed acoustic waves to stimulate the body’s own healing process. There are no needles, no medications, and no recovery time required. You’ll be fully awake, comfortably seated or lying down, and able to return to your regular daily activities immediately after your appointment. For many patients, this gentle, science-backed approach offers a welcome alternative to surgery or ongoing medication.
2. You Might Feel a ‘Searching Sensation’ During Treatment
One of the most unique things about SoftWave Therapy is that the treatment helps identify areas of dysfunction in the body. As the technician moves the treatment head over the affected area, you might feel a pulsing sensation or mild tenderness in certain spots. This is completely normal—and actually helpful. These tender areas are often sites of cellular stress, scar tissue, or inflammation, and SoftWave’s healing signals are designed to target exactly those areas.
3. Your First Visit Includes Evaluation and Treatment
At Health Clarified, your first appointment includes both an evaluation and your initial SoftWave session. We’ll start with a short consult to understand your symptoms and health history, then move into the treatment itself. Expect your visit to take about 30–45 minutes in total. There’s no special preparation required, but we do recommend wearing comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the treatment area.
4. You May Feel Results Right Away—or Over Time
Some people experience noticeable relief after their very first session, especially a decrease in pain and stiffness or increased range of motion. This usually peaks within 15–20 hours after treatment. Others may see more gradual improvement across 3–6 visits. Your body will continue healing for 8–12 weeks after your final treatment, as SoftWave helps activate your own stem cells and promote true tissue regeneration.
Mild soreness, tingling, or fatigue after treatment is normal and even a good sign—your body is responding. Stay hydrated, avoid ice and anti-inflammatory medications (as they may dampen the healing response), and give your body time to work its magic.
5. It’s a Smart First Step Before Surgery or Injections
SoftWave is FDA-cleared for a range of musculoskeletal conditions and has helped many patients avoid surgery, steroid injections, or long-term medication. It’s ideal for those dealing with:
- Chronic joint or tendon pain
- Neuropathy
- Plantar fasciitis or heel pain
- Shoulder or elbow injuries
- Post-operative scar tissue or delayed healing
In fact, clinical research shows a 65–91% success rate for many of these conditions.
If you’re on the fence about your next steps or want to avoid invasive procedures, SoftWave is a safe, low-risk place to start.
Have more questions? Read more of our FAQs. Ready to try SoftWave Therapy? Book an introductory session.
