Acute vs. Chronic Injuries: Why Softwave Treatment Plans Vary

When recommending SoftWave therapy, one of the most important factors we consider is how long the injury has been present. Injuries that developed recently behave very differently from conditions that have existed for months or years.

Understanding this difference helps determine how many treatments may be recommended.

Acute Injuries

Acute injuries are typically recent and may include muscle strains, ligament sprains, or inflammation from overuse or sudden trauma.

These injuries often respond more quickly because the tissue damage is newer and the body’s healing response is already active.

SoftWave therapy can help support this process by:

  • Improving circulation to the injured tissue
  • Reducing inflammation
  • Stimulating cellular repair
  • Supporting faster tissue recovery

Because the tissue damage is relatively new, acute injuries sometimes require fewer sessions.

Chronic Injuries

Chronic conditions often involve long-standing tissue damage that may have developed over months or years. These cases frequently involve scar tissue buildup, reduced circulation, or degeneration in the affected area.

Examples of chronic conditions may include:

  • Tendonitis
  • Chronic joint pain
  • Old ligament injuries
  • Long-term shoulder, knee, or foot pain

In these situations, additional treatments may be needed to help stimulate healing and break up long-standing tissue damage.

Typical SoftWave Treatment Plans

At 614 Chiropractic, most patients begin with a treatment plan ranging from 4–12 sessions, depending on their condition and healing response.

Once the initial treatment phase is completed, some patients continue with occasional maintenance sessions to support tissue health and reduce the risk of recurring issues.

Supporting the Body’s Natural Healing

SoftWave therapy is designed to stimulate the body’s regenerative processes and support real tissue repair. When used alongside chiropractic care and movement-based recovery, it can help improve function and long-term outcomes.

Learn more about SoftWave Tissue Regeneration Therapy and how it may help support recovery.

By Dr. Nicholas Esser, DC

Picture of Nicholas Esser

Nicholas Esser

Dr. Esser, owner and primary provider at 614 Chiropractic of Hilliard, Ohio is a highly experienced chiropractor who welcomes all ages of patients to our practice. Dr. Esser was born and raised in Anna, Ohio, (Go Rockets!) where he has always been a chiropractic patient himself since he was a baby under the care and guidance of his mentor and friend Dr. Kreg Huffer. He attended Ohio State University where he received his bachelor’s degree.

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