Unlocking the Power of Radial Pressure Wave Therapy in Chiropractic Care

Softshock 2.0 Radial Pressure Wave device for Class 4 chiropractic therapy.

Why Radial Pressure Wave Therapy Is Gaining Ground in Chiropractic Care

As demand grows for noninvasive, drug-free musculoskeletal therapies, chiropractors are turning to advanced tools that align with their hands-on approach to care. Among these tools, radial pressure wave (RPW) therapy is emerging as a first-line treatment option for myofascial pain, tendon disorders, and soft tissue tension.

At Medray, we believe RPW therapy—offered through our Softshock 2.0 Radial Pressure Wave device — is not just an “entry-level” modality, but a clinically strategic, neurologically active tool for chiropractors ready to expand their treatment capabilities.

What Is Radial Pressure Wave Therapy?

RPW therapy, sometimes categorized within extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), uses mechanical percussion to deliver dispersive energy across a broad, shallow target zone. Unlike focused shockwave, which converges energy to deeper tissues, RPW spreads its effect radially—typically penetrating 3–5 cm—making it ideal for addressing:

This gentle but powerful therapy stimulates mechanoreceptors in fascia and soft tissues, reducing pain, improving circulation, and preparing the body for manual work or rehabilitation.

Why RPW Therapy Belongs in Modern Chiropractic Care

RPW is not a “stepping stone” to focused shockwave—it’s a neuromechanically specific intervention that supports:

RPW therapy acts as a primer, improving tissue pliability and lowering nociceptive input before adjustments, decompression, or exercise therapy.

RPW vs. Manual Therapy: A Powerful Combination

While manual techniques like Active Release or instrument-assisted soft tissue manipulation are cornerstones of chiropractic, they’re also labor-intensive.

RPW enhances, not replaces, manual therapy. It reduces tissue resistance, improves treatment tolerance, and allows support staff to take a more active role in the care plan—freeing the doctor to focus on diagnostics, adjustments, or consultations.

Patient Engagement and Value Perception

Patients often equate treatment value with what they feel. RPW therapy delivers immediate, sensory-rich feedback: it thumps, vibrates, and resonates through tissue—creating a tangible treatment experience patients associate with effectiveness.

This makes RPW especially valuable for cash-based services, where perceived value directly impacts patient compliance and retention.

When to Consider Focused or Defocused Shockwave

Focused or defocused shockwave therapy has its place—especially for:
But RPW can act as the starting point, conditioning tissues and improving tolerance before escalating to more intense energy levels.

Case Example: Chronic Low Back Pain

A patient presents with chronic low back pain and soft tissue restriction. A comprehensive plan might include:

In this model, RPW serves as the neurologically active primer that makes every subsequent intervention more effective.

RPW Therapy: Efficient, Scalable, and Effective

For chiropractors juggling physical demands, tight schedules, and evolving patient expectations, RPW therapy offers:

Conclusion: RPW Isn’t an Alternative—It’s an Advantage

Radial pressure wave therapy is not a budget-friendly substitute for focused energy. It’s a first-line, patient-friendly, and practice-efficient tool that helps chiropractors deliver better care, faster results, and greater patient satisfaction.

At Medray, we’ve built the Softshock 2.0 RPW to meet these exact demands—combining innovation, durability, and evidence-backed protocols to help providers like you deliver exceptional outcomes. Interested in learning how RPW therapy can elevate your practice? Call us at (573) 745-1086 or visit our Contact Us page to request more information or schedule a demo.

Medray Laser & Technology manufactures and distributes FDA-cleared medical devices designed to support circulation, tissue stimulation, and pain relief. Our products are intended for use by licensed healthcare professionals. While clinical research and practitioner experience support the use of laser and radial pressure wave (RPW) therapy in various applications, some uses described in this article may be considered off-label and are not explicitly cleared by the FDA. Patients should consult their healthcare provider to determine the best treatment for their individual needs. The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for consultation with a licensed medical professional.

Educational content is for licensed healthcare providers and may include discussion of clinical uses not cleared by the FDA. Provided for scientific exchange and not intended as promotional.
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