Short answer
SoftWave uses sound waves, laser uses light, and PRP uses your own platelets. All three are non-surgical ways we help chronic joint and tendon pain at Charleston Pain Relief Center in North Charleston, SC.
SoftWave and laser need no needles and are often used together. PRP is an injection, usually for cases that need more support. The right choice depends on your evaluation.
Three tools, one goal
Tool 1 · Sound
SoftWave
Focused acoustic waves reach deep into the tissue to help activate connective tissue and improve blood supply. About 10 to 15 minutes, no needles.
Tool 2 · Light
Class IV laser
Light energy that calms inflammation and eases pain. Warm and soothing, no needles.
Tool 3 · You
PRP
Platelets from your own blood, concentrated and injected into the area for extra repair support.
The plan
Often combined
We often combine two of these for chronic knee and back pain.
Side by side
| SoftWave | Class IV laser | PRP | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Works with | Focused sound waves | Light energy | Your own platelets |
| Needles | None | None | Injection |
| Visit length | About 10 to 15 minutes | Short | Longer visit (blood draw and injection) |
| Downtime | None | None | Short rest for the area |
| Often used for | Chronic tendon, heel, knee, shoulder, back | Inflammation and pain, often alongside SoftWave | Joints and tendons that need more support |
Learn more: SoftWave therapy · Class IV laser therapy · PRP therapy
Quick check: is SoftWave worth a look for you?
Tap each one that sounds like you.
I want to start with something that has no needles.
SoftWave or laser, or both together, are good places to start.
My pain is in a joint and has lasted a long time.
We will look at all three options at your evaluation and recommend a plan.
I have already tried one of these and want the next step.
Tell us what you tried; combining tools is often the next move.
Two or more sound like you? Start with a free consultation. Pick a time here.
Ready to find out if SoftWave fits your pain?
Your consultation is free. If you want to move forward, your exam and first SoftWave session are $49, so you feel it before you decide. New patients; Medicare and Medicaid rules apply.
Book my free consult Text us (message is ready)Rather talk? Call (843) 604-2276
Questions people ask us
What is the difference between SoftWave and laser therapy?
SoftWave uses focused acoustic waves; our Class IV laser uses light energy to calm inflammation. They work in different ways, which is why we often use them together.
Is PRP better than SoftWave?
They are different tools. PRP uses concentrated platelets from your own blood, given by injection. SoftWave needs no needles. Some patients start with SoftWave and move to PRP if the tissue needs more support.
Can I combine SoftWave and laser?
Yes, often in the same visit. It is one of our most common combinations for chronic knee and back pain.
What does it cost to try SoftWave?
SoftWave: the consultation is free, and your exam and first SoftWave session are $49.
How do I know which one I need?
Start with an evaluation. We look at where the pain is, how long it has lasted and what you have tried, then recommend one option or a combination.
Keep reading: SoftWave vs cortisone vs surgery · SoftWave vs shockwave
This article is general information, not medical advice. Individual results vary. Charleston Pain Relief Center, 2294 Otranto Rd, North Charleston, SC 29406.