Is radial pressure wave therapy the same as shockwave therapy?

They fall under the same family, but they deliver energy a bit differently. Standard shockwave therapy sends concentrated acoustic energy straight to a single, deep point in the tissue. Radial Pressure Wave (RPW) therapy, on the other hand, creates pressure waves at the surface of your skin that spread outward over a broader treatment area.

You will feel a rapid tapping or pulsing sensation over the target area. While it can feel slightly uncomfortable—especially over tender spots or tight muscle knots—the settings are controlled to ensure the session remains effective while staying within your limits.

How long does a session take?

The session itself is very quick. Delivering the pressure waves usually takes around 5 minutes per treatment area, making it easy to fit into a quick visit or pair alongside your other recovery services.

How many sessions are typical?

Most care plans range between 4 to 6 sessions to achieve optimal tissue healing and lasting pain relief. Many people begin noticing positive changes in how their body feels and moves after just one to two visits.

Can I exercise after RPW?

Yes, but keeping it light is best. Light movement, mobility work, or easy active recovery can actually support the increased blood flow stimulated by your treatment. However, you’ll want to hold off on heavy strength training or intense, high-impact workouts on that specific area for 24 hours to give your tissues time to heal and respond.

Recovery + Wellness · St. Louis, MO

Radial Pressure Wave (RPW)

RPW is a fast, non-invasive treatment that uses gentle sound waves to quickly relieve muscle and tendon pain. It is highly effective for breaking up painful trigger points and treating stubborn tendon issues.

Call 314-698-2211

MARC practitioner applying radial pressure wave therapy to a client’s arm

01 — The Technology

How RPW Targets Pain at the Source

RPW works by spreading soothing acoustic waves across your muscles and tendons to treat targeted areas. These acoustic pulses increase local circulation and jumpstart your body's natural recovery process. By bringing fresh blood flow to tight tissues, RPW helps to quiet down persistent pain, break up tight knots, and kickstart your body's natural healing power so you can get moving comfortably again.

02 — The Visit

Fast, Convenient Care With Minimal Downtime

A typical RPW session takes only five minutes per treated area, making it easy to fit into your schedule. Expect to feel a strong tapping or pressure during treatment. It comes with some mild to moderate discomfort, but the settings are controlled to ensure the session remains effective while staying within your limits.

You can return to most daily activities right away, but you should hold off on strenuous exercise using the treated area for 24 hours to let your body recover.

03 — Targeted Applications

Unlock Mobility and Accelerate Your Recovery

If you are dealing with chronic issues like tennis elbow, Achilles stiffness, plantar fasciitis, or lingering muscle tension, RPW offers a fast path to relief. Treatments average just five minutes per area, making it seamless to fit into your routine. By helping break up stubborn scar tissue and improving movement quality, RPW accelerates your body's inherent repair process so you can stay active without relying on invasive options or extended downtime.

04 — Get Started

Ready to Feel the Difference with RPW Therapy?

Schedule your session online or give our team a call at 314-698-2211 to get started.

RPW Therapy is a key offering on MARC's Recovery + Wellness menu. You can also explore our other options, including Laser Therapy , Infrared Salt Sauna, or Vitality Suite. To build long-term strength and capacity as you heal, your plan can also integrate personal training alongside your treatments.

05 — Cost

Accessible Options for Every Goal

RPW sessions start at $60 for up to two treatment areas, with flexible package options available to support a continuous recovery regimen and lower your cost per visit. Treatments are HSA and FSA eligible, and financing through Cherry or CareCredit allows you to focus on your healing now while paying over time.

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