Everything you're wondering about GAINSWave® for recovery at Scoresby Chiropractic.
How does it work?
GAINSWave® for Recovery uses low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy (LI-ESWT) applied to musculoskeletal injuries, chronic pain conditions, and soft tissue damage. The acoustic waves stimulate the body's natural healing response — increasing blood flow, breaking down scar tissue and calcifications, and triggering the regeneration of healthy tissue.
What conditions can it help with?
GAINSWave® for Recovery is commonly sought for back pain, neck pain, knee pain, arthritis, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, patellar tendinopathy, rotator cuff injuries, tennis elbow, and general athletic recovery. Our team will evaluate whether shockwave therapy is appropriate for your specific condition.
Is the treatment painful?
Most patients describe the treatment as tolerable — a pulsing or tapping sensation that may be slightly intense near the injury site, but not painful. The intensity is adjustable, and most people adapt within the first few minutes. There is no anesthesia required, and you can return to normal activities right after the session.
How many sessions will I need?
Your protocol is custom-built around your injury, severity, and recovery goals — so the number of sessions varies by patient. Sessions are spaced several days apart to allow your body's healing response to progress between treatments. Our team will outline your exact plan during your evaluation.
When will I start seeing results?
Some patients notice relief after the first session, though this varies by condition. Improvement is typically progressive — your body continues healing after each session, with many patients reporting peak improvement 4–8 weeks after completing their protocol.
What if I've already tried physical therapy?
GAINSWave® for Recovery is often used when traditional physical therapy has plateaued or has not provided lasting relief. Shockwave therapy reaches tissue depths that manual therapy cannot — encouraging healing where conventional approaches have fallen short. Many patients see meaningful progress with GAINSWave® after years of unsuccessful treatment.
Is it safe?
Yes. Low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy (LI-ESWT) has an excellent safety profile and has been used in clinical settings for over 20 years. It is FDA-cleared for specific musculoskeletal applications. Side effects are rare and typically mild — such as temporary redness or soreness near the treatment area.
Do athletes use it for ongoing maintenance?
Yes. Many athletes and active individuals use GAINSWave® for Recovery proactively to maintain tissue health, reduce the risk of overuse injuries, and speed recovery between competitions or heavy training cycles. Our team can build a maintenance protocol tailored to your athletic schedule and goals.
