Call Today

Comparing Radial Vs. Focal ShockwaveShockwaveShockwave Therapy

Schedule a Free Consultation

Understanding the Key Differences & Choosing the Right Treatment

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive, clinically proven treatment for musculoskeletal conditions, chronic pain, and soft tissue injuries. However, not all shockwave treatments are the same. There are two primary types:

  • Radial Pressurewave Therapy (R-SWT) – Used for broad treatment areas & surface-level conditions.
  • Focal Shockwave Therapy (F-SWT) – Used for deep, pinpointed tissue injuries.

Each has distinct advantages, and many clinics use both to create a comprehensive treatment plan for patients.

Schedule a Consult

What is Radial Pressurewave Therapy?

Radial Shockwave Therapy (R-SWT) uses low-energy pressure waves that disperse over a larger treatment area.

How It Works

  • Energy is applied to the skin’s surface, spreading outward in a wave-like fashion.
  • Lower penetration depth (up to 2.5 cm) – ideal for muscles, fascia, and soft tissue.
  • Stimulates circulation, reduces inflammation, and breaks down adhesions.

Best for Treating

  • Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Spurs
  • Tendinopathies (Achilles, Tennis Elbow, Golfer’s Elbow)
  • Muscle Tightness & Trigger Points
  • General Pain & Circulatory Issues

Key Benefits

  • Non-invasive and well-tolerated by patients.
  • Fast treatment times (5-10 minutes per session).
  • Ideal for broad or surface-level conditions.
Learn More

What is Focal Shockwave Therapy?

Focal Shockwave Therapy (F-SWT) uses high-energy acoustic waves that penetrate deep into targeted tissues.

Learn More

How It Works

  • Energy is concentrated at a precise depth, reaching deeper structures like tendons, ligaments, and bones.
  • Higher penetration depth (up to 6 cm) – optimal for chronic conditions and deep musculoskeletal injuries.
  • Breaks down calcifications, promotes collagen regeneration, and enhances tissue repair.

Best for Treating

  • Chronic Tendinitis & Calcific Tendinopathy
  • Deep Scar Tissue & Post-Surgical Adhesions
  • Stress Fractures & Bone Healing
  • Post-Surgical Recovery & Non-Healing Injuries

Key Benefits

  • More precise targeting for stubborn injuries.
  • Proven to improve bone healing and tendon regeneration.
  • Often used in high-performance sports recovery & rehabilitation.

Radial vs. Focal: Key Differences

Feature

Radial Pressurewave Therapy

Focal Shockwave Therapy

Energy Type

Low-energy, dispersed waves

High-energy, focus waves

Penetration Depth

Up to 2.5 cm

Up to 6 cm

Best For

Muscles, fascia, circulation

Tendons, bones, deep tissues

Treatment Area

Larger areas, superficial pain

Pinpoint accuracy for deep pain

Typical Conditions

Plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, muscle pain

Stress fractures, chronic tendin

Should Clinics Use Radial or Focal Shockwave Therapy?

Most Providers Use Both for Maximum Results:

Radial Therapy is best for general musculoskeletal conditions and superficial pain.

Focal Therapy is needed for chronic conditions, deep tissue injuries, and post-surgical recovery.

Combining both offers comprehensive treatment plans that enhance recovery outcomes.

Learn More

Which Shockwave Therapy is Right for Your Clinic?

If your clinic treats chronic pain, orthopedic conditions, or sports injuries, you should consider both radial and focal shockwave therapy to maximize patient outcomes.

Book a Free Consultation Today to learn more about integrating shockwave therapy solutions into your practice.

Schedule a Call Today