StemWave and traditional shockwave therapy both use acoustic energy to stimulate healing. But they use different delivery methods, target tissue differently, and are marketed for different conditions. If you're researching your options, here's a straightforward comparison.
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy delivers high-energy radial or focused acoustic waves into injured tissue. It's been used clinically since the 1980s and is backed by decades of research, especially for tendon and soft tissue conditions.
At Novaré, we use the Intelect RPW 2 (Chattanooga Radial Pressure Wave) system. This is a radial pressure wave device used by NFL, MLB, NBA, and Olympic athletic programs.
StemWave TRT (Tissue Regeneration Technology) uses unfocused, low-energy electrohydraulic shockwaves that spread over a wider area. StemWave markets itself as activating stem cells in the treatment area. The device creates a broader, less concentrated wave pattern compared to focused or radial shockwave systems.
How traditional ESWT and StemWave TRT compare on the factors that matter most.
| Factor | Traditional ESWT (Radial/Focused) | StemWave TRT |
|---|---|---|
| Wave type | Focused or radial (concentrated) | Unfocused (diffuse) |
| Energy level | Higher energy, targeted | Lower energy, spread wider |
| Clinical evidence | Decades of peer-reviewed research | Newer, less published clinical data |
| FDA status | Multiple FDA-cleared devices | FDA-registered (different standard) |
| Treatment areas | Precise targeting of specific tendons/tissues | Broader coverage area |
| Best for | Plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, calcific shoulder | General pain relief, broader tissue areas |
| Adoption | NFL, MLB, NBA, teaching hospitals | Growing chiropractic adoption |
| Cost per session | Varies | Often marketed at higher price points |
Before choosing between these technologies, consider these important distinctions.
Novaré Injury Care and Rehab uses the Intelect RPW 2, a well-established radial pressure wave system backed by extensive clinical research. We combine it with laser therapy, chiropractic care, and manual therapy for conditions that involve multiple tissue types.
We chose this system because the evidence base is strong, the technology is proven in professional sports medicine, and it delivers consistent results for the musculoskeletal conditions our patients present with.
Questions? Call (239) 579-4444 or schedule a visit at our Fort Myers or Lehigh Acres clinic.
Same-day appointments at both locations.
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Spinal adjustments, Cox Flexion Distraction, Pro Adjuster SRT.
Non-surgical disc treatment using the DRX9000 and AccuSpina. MRI required.
Auto accident, workplace, and sports injury treatment.
AI-guided Class IV lasers for tissue repair.
Digital x-rays with MRI coordination.
Myofascial release, joint mobilization.
