Everything You Need to Know About Piezowave Therapy
- Just Healthy
- 4 days ago
- 11 min read
PiezoWave therapy is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment that uses focused sound waves to target deep tissue pain and injuries, offering relief when other methods haven’t worked, with quick sessions, minimal discomfort, and growing clinical support.
If you’re curious about PiezoWave therapy and wondering if it could help you, here’s the quick answer: it’s a gentle, non-invasive treatment that uses focused sound waves (known as ESWT) to help your body heal pain and injuries – without surgery or meds.
It’s often used when other treatments haven’t worked, especially for things like tendon pain, chronic aches, or pelvic issues.
You might have heard of shockwave therapy too, and want to know how Piezowave is different. While they’re similar, PiezoWave is more precise and works deeper into the tissue.
Key Takeaways
Deep, drug-free pain relief – Piezowave therapy uses focused sound waves to heal tissue where other treatments fail—no surgery, no meds, just results.
Backed by research, used when others give up – Clinically proven to reduce pain and improve function in chronic conditions like tendon injuries, pelvic pain, and ED.
Know what you’re getting – Not all shockwave therapy is equal; ask for the PiezoWave2 system and a trained provider to get real, targeted results.
Table of Contents
What Is Piezowave Therapy?
Piezowave therapy is a popular, non-invasive, sound wave-based treatment to target deep into your tissues to help your body heal itself. It’s an alternative to invasive therapies like surgery and medications.
Although it may sound overly techy, the actual tech behind it isn’t new or experimental. It comes from the same science as ultrasound machines, which has been safely used in medicine for decades.
The main difference is that Piezowave delivers a more concentrated energy pulse, made specifically to interact with soft tissue – with the goal of activating it as opposed to imaging, which is what diagnostic ultrasound is used for.
You’ll find it in physio and chiro clinics, urology practices, and sports rehab settings. Practitioners often turn to it when other treatments haven’t worked, especially for issues like tendon pain, soft tissue injuries, pelvic dysfunction, or erectile dysfunction related to poor blood flow or scar tissue.
It’s one tool in the toolbox, made to help “kickstart” healing in areas where recovery has stalled.
Who Is It For?
Piezowave therapy may be a good fit if you’re dealing with:
Recurring chronic pain
Stubborn injuries
Plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, or rotator cuff pain
Pelvic pain or tension
Erectile dysfunction linked to poor blood flow or scar tissue
It’s gentle, targeted, and usually done in 10-20 minute sessions.
What Can It Help With?
Piezowave therapy can be used for a range of soft tissue aches and pains, especially when healing has stalled or pain has become chronic. Here are the common conditions it can help with:
Joint and tendon pain: Common for overuse or chronic issues like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, tennis elbow, or rotator cuff problems. These injuries often involve chronic inflammation or scar tissue that hasn't responded to rest or rehab.
In fact, research found in those with plantar fasciitis, that Piezowave therapy reduced tissue thickness by 17% and cut pain scores nearly in half over 12 months. It didn’t just relieve symptoms, it appeared to also reverse some of the underlying stiffness.
Furthermore, a 2024 review of 18 clinical trials showed nearly 2 points of pain reduction (VAS) and a 13-point gain in function scores in common upper limb injuries like tennis elbow and rotator cuff problems.
Myofascial pain and trigger points: Helpful for trigger points, which are small, hyperirritable knots in muscle tissue that reduce blood flow and cause pain, like those in the neck, back, or shoulders. Focused acoustic pulses help break that pain cycle by releasing tension and restoring perfusion.
A 2025 meta-analysis of 15 randomized controlled trials found that ESWT led to a large and statistically significant reduction in pain for people with myofascial pain syndrome. Improvements were also seen in pressure pain threshold and neck function, suggesting benefits go beyond pain relief alone.
Scar tissue and post-surgical stiffness: Scar tissue may form post-surgery restricting movement and causing pain. Piezowave can be used to help break down adhesions and restore mobility over time.
Pelvic floor dysfunction: Used as part of a holistic treatment plan for pelvic support in conditions like postpartum tightness, chronic pelvic pain, or muscle imbalance.
Erectile dysfunction (ED): Poor blood flow is a key contributor in ED with root causes in the cardiovascular system. For this reason, urologists often use low-intensity focused shockwaves to help improve blood flow and tissue function in men with ED.
It’s important to know the PiezoWave treatments aren’t a fix-it-all, and they’re not usually the first thing people try.
But many clinics turn to them—similar to acupuncture—when progress has stalled or other options haven’t worked. They’re often one piece of a bigger program that might include rehab exercises, manual therapy, or other targeted work
How Does It Work?
Piezowave uses focused sound waves to reach deep into soft tissue, meaning muscle, tendon, or fascia. These are the parts of the body that often get irritated, inflamed, or stuck after injury, and they’re usually the source of ongoing pain or limited movement.
Focused sound waves from Piezowave reach deep – about 30 to 60 mm – well beyond what massage or manual therapy can touch.
A 2025 lab study confirmed these waves penetrate 50 mm through porcine muscle and even bone, with precise targeting clearly seen on imaging. This shows how effectively Piezowave works deep inside tissue.
It’s not electrical stimulation, and it’s not a massage. The pulses are mechanical pressure waves that travel through the skin and into the tissue below.
The goal is to stimulate areas that are slow to heal. The pulses increase localized blood flow, which helps loosen tight or thickened tissue.
In some cases, they also help calm overly sensitive nerves. This effect has been confirmed in studies where patients with carpal tunnel syndrome experienced improved nerve conduction and reduced pain after just three sessions. This shows that Piezowave therapy not only treats the tissue but also helps reset nerve sensitivity
Moreover, Piezowave can increase blood flow by up to 200% in the treated area and stimulate the growth of new blood vessels – a process known as angiogenesis. This matters because improved circulation delivers more oxygen, water, and nutrients to the tissue, helping to reduce inflammation and support faster healing.
You might be thinking, “Can’t I just get the same effect by rubbing, stretching, or exercising the area?” The difference with Piezowave is how deep and targeted the treatment can be.
It doesn’t just work on the surface, it reaches deeper layers of muscle, tendon, or fascia that hands, tools, or even movement can’t always access (except maybe yin yoga, which can reach the fascia, but in a very different way).
Piezowave vs. Shockwave: What’s the Difference?
You might hear the terms “shockwave therapy” and “Piezowave” used interchangeably, but they’re not the same thing. There are two main types of shockwave therapy: focused and radial.
Shockwave therapy can refer to a few different technologies. The two main types are focused shockwaves (like Piezowave) and radial shockwaves (sometimes called pressure waves). Both use mechanical pulses, but the way they affect the body is different.
Here’s how they compare:
Depth: Focused shockwaves can reach deeper into the body, into tissue near joints or tendons. Radial waves stay more at the surface.
Precision: Focused shockwaves can be directed to a very specific spot. Radial tends to spread out and affect a broader area.
Sensation: Focused therapy often feels sharper and more concentrated. Radial feels more like rhythmic tapping or pressure across a wider area.
Use in practice: Radial is often used for general muscle tightness or soreness closer to the surface. Focused is used when treatment needs to reach deeper tissue or when a more targeted approach is needed.
Why the Difference Matters
If you're considering treatment, it's helpful to know which type is being used. While both have their place, they’re not interchangeable. The right option depends on what you’re trying to treat, and how deep or specific the problem is.
What a Treatment Feels Like
A typical Piezowave therapy session is pretty straightforward and short.
1. Quick consultation
Your provider will start by asking about your symptoms, check the area, and decide whether Piezowave makes sense for your case.
2. Gel and probe placement
If it's a match, a bit of ultrasound gel is applied to the skin. The therapist then places a hand-held probe over the treatment area.
3. Focused acoustic pulses: The device delivers a series of sound wave pulses to the tissue. This part takes around 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the size of the area and the condition being treated.
Does It Hurt?
Most people experience a gentle pressure or a deep tapping sensation during treatment. In some sensitive areas, it might feel slightly sharp, but it’s usually not painful. If it ever feels too uncomfortable, the therapist can easily adjust the settings to make it more tolerable.
After the Session
There’s no downtime. You can get back to normal activities right away, including work, exercise, or walking. Some people feel mild soreness or fatigue in the area afterward, but it usually passes within a day.
Is It Safe?
You might be wondering if Piezowave therapy could mess with your health, which is a fair concern. Fortunately, the answer is usually no, it’s gentle, non-invasive, and very low-risk and when done by a trained provider, it’s very safe.
You might feel some mild soreness or redness afterward, but that usually goes away quickly.
Pregnancy
Cancer or tumors near the treatment area
Pacemaker or implanted devices
Blood clotting disorders or blood thinners
Circulatory conditions
Active infection in the area
Growth plates (if you're still growing)
To be on the safe side, always discuss your full medical history with your provider to ensure it’s right for you.
When Will I Feel Results?
Most people notice some pain relief or better movement within the first few sessions, sometimes even right away. But for others, especially with more stubborn or deep-tissue issues, it can take a few weeks to feel the full benefit.
Some people with tendon problems report better function and an overall improvement in quality of life after completing a series of treatments.
Here’s what’s typical:
Improvements in 1–3 sessions for many
6 sessions total is common (twice a week for 3 weeks)
Long-term healing may continue over several weeks as tissue remodels
Results usually last, especially if the root cause (like posture or overuse) is addressed
Because Piezowave therapy is non-invasive, there’s no medication or numbing involved, which means less risk of swelling or irritation compared to other treatments. That said, it’s not unusual to feel some mild soreness or aching in the treated area a few hours later. This usually fades within a few days and is often a sign that the healing process has started.
Is this a quick fix or something that lasts?
It depends on your body and your injury, but many people find that the improvements hold up well, especially when they also work on any underlying causes, and dietary or lifestyle factors.
Cost & Insurance
How Much Does it Cost?
Pricing can vary depending on your location, the condition being treated, and how many sessions you’ll need.
In Canada, most clinics charge between $100 and $300 per session per session
In the U.S., rates are typically between $250 and $450 in the U.S per session
Some clinics offer discounts for first-time patients or package pricing for multiple sessions. For example, 3- to 6-session packages often range from $550 to $1,050, which can help make treatment more affordable if several visits are recommended.
Is It Covered by Insurance?
Usually not. Piezowave therapy is often seen as elective or “alternative,” so it’s typically not covered. In the U.S., many people use their HSA or FSA (Health Savings Account/Flexible Spending Accounts) to pay for treatment.
In Canada, some private insurance plans may cover part of the cost if the treatment is prescribed and medically necessary.
In some clinics, shockwave therapy is provided by a licensed physiotherapist and billed as physiotherapy, which may be covered like a regular physio session.
Many clinics also offer direct billing to major insurers. Coverage will vary widely between regions and providers so it's best you check with your insurer to see what options are included.
Is It Worth It?
That depends on your goals and what other options you’re weighing. Here’s how Piezowave compares in cost to other common treatments:
Treatment | Estimated Cost |
Cortisone injection | |
PRP injection | |
Physical therapy (10–12 visits) | |
Surgery | |
Piezowave (6 sessions) |
It’s not the least expensive option, but for some, it offers relief without the side effects, downtime, or risks that come with injections or surgery.
Finding a Provider
Looking for treatment? Start by searching “piezowave therapy near me” or check out our full guide to finding trusted clinics here.
What to Look For
Certified providers using the PiezoWave 2 system
Experience with your condition (e.g., tendon pain, sports injuries, nerve issues)
Transparent answers about training, pricing, and expected results
Don’t hesitate to ask about credentials and patient reviews before booking.
Questions to Ask First
A smart patient’s checklist:
Is this focused or radial shockwave?
Do you use a PiezoWave system?
How many sessions will I need?
What results should I expect?
What if it doesn’t help?
What Are Other People Saying?
If you’re wondering, “Has this actually worked for someone like me?” – you’re not alone. Real people are seeing real results with PiezoWave therapy. Here's one example from someone who experienced its impact firsthand:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “A Godsend” — Tari (Local Guide, 19 reviews) “Today I brought my wife to see Dr. Perkins to help with her extreme neck and head spasms. She was in so much pain, she was crying in the office. The staff was incredibly kind and gentle with my wife — Christy even brought her an ice pack while we waited. Dr. Perkins evaluated her and recommended PiezoWave treatments. Christy performed them with such care. Everyone in the office was friendly and kind to us. Dr. Perkins was attentive and never made us feel rushed, he gave us confidence he knew what he was doing. The PiezoWave treatment worked wonders and got my wife out of her pain crisis, she left smiling and feeling light years better. She'll need more treatments, but we found a chiropractic practice for life. When I was looking for a chiropractor for my wife, I contacted six. I spoke with Christy at Dr. Perkin's office and found her friendly and knowledgeable, based on my interaction with her and her follow up with me on some questions we chose Dr. Perkins. The paperwork was online and easy to complete as well”.
Conclusion: Should You Try Piezowave Therapy?
Piezowave therapy offers a lot of upside, especially if you’re dealing with ongoing pain or stiffness that hasn’t responded to other treatments.
It’s non-invasive, requires no drugs, and can work relatively quickly
Targets pain and dysfunction with precise, focused energy
That said, it's not a miracle fix, but it’s science-backed and used by professionals who specialize in rehab, sports medicine, and chronic pain.
If you’re curious, start by searching “piezowave therapy near me.” Ask questions, learn about your options, and find a provider who knows what they’re doing. At the end of the day, it’s your body, and you know what’s best for it.
Quick FAQs
Is it the same as ultrasound?
No. It may look similar, but PiezoWave uses shockwaves, not sound waves. It goes deeper and helps your body heal faster.
Can I get it if I’m already doing physical therapy?
Yes! PiezoWave works great with physical therapy. It can even help you heal quicker.
Can I work out afterward?
Most people can! It depends on how you feel. Just ask your provider what’s best for you.
How do I know if it’s working?
You’ll usually feel less pain and move better after a few sessions. Some people feel a difference right away!