What Is StemWave Therapy?
StemWave is a focused form of shockwave therapy that uses acoustic pressure waves to stimulate your body's natural healing response. The waves penetrate deep into damaged tissue, increasing blood flow, reducing inflammation, and activating the cellular repair process. It is FDA-listed, non-invasive, and requires no injections, surgery, or recovery time.
At Core Chiropractic in Waukee, Dr. John Lindstrom uses StemWave as part of a broader treatment approach that often combines acoustic wave therapy with chiropractic adjustments and soft tissue work. Because Dr. Lindstrom holds a B.S. in Exercise Science in addition to his Doctorate of Chiropractic, he is able to assess the full musculoskeletal picture, not just the site of pain.
✔ FDA Listed
✔ Safe and Non-Invasive
✔ No Downtime or Major Side Effects
✔ Drug-Free & Surgery-Free
What StemWave Treats Best
StemWave produces strong results across many conditions, but two areas stand out in clinical practice at Core Chiropractic:
Tendinitis and Tendon Injuries
Tendinitis, the inflammation and degeneration of tendon tissue, is one of the conditions that responds most consistently to StemWave therapy. Common presentations include Achilles tendinitis, patellar tendinitis (jumper's knee), rotator cuff tendinopathy, and tennis or golfer's elbow. When conservative care has stalled or symptoms keep returning, StemWave's ability to stimulate collagen remodeling and increase local blood flow often produces progress where other approaches have not.
Chronic Joint Pain in the Extremities
Persistent pain in the knees, hips, shoulders, and ankles, particularly when it involves degenerative joint changes or calcification, is another area where StemWave is a strong option. The acoustic waves help break down calcific deposits, reduce joint inflammation, and support tissue regeneration. Patients who have been managing joint pain with medication or are trying to avoid surgery often find StemWave a meaningful part of their care plan.
What to Expect at Your StemWave Appointment
Gel Application and Setup
Acoustic Wave Delivery
Same-Day Return to Activity
Is StemWave Right for You?
StemWave is a good fit for patients who:
- Have a tendon, joint, or soft tissue condition that has not responded fully to other conservative care
- Are looking to avoid surgery or reduce dependence on pain medication
- Want to address a chronic or recurring injury alongside their chiropractic care
It is not appropriate for all conditions, and Dr. Lindstrom will assess your case before recommending it. If StemWave is a fit, it will typically be integrated alongside adjustments and any relevant soft tissue or rehab work.
Real Patient Success Stories from Waukee, IA
John D., a Waukee resident: 'After years of knee pain from running, StemWave Shockwave Therapy at Core Chiropractic changed everything. I avoided surgery and am back to my active lifestyle!'
Sarah M.: 'My chronic back pain was debilitating until I tried StemWave. The non-invasive treatments reduced my inflammation quickly—no more relying on pain meds.'
Danielle T.: 'I suffered with chronic plantar fasciitis for years with no relief. After the first session of Stemwave, my pain was reduced by 80%, I was simply amazed!'
These testimonials highlight how StemWave helps everyday Iowans regain mobility.
Read more of our patient testimonials here
Scientific Backing for StemWave Shockwave Therapy
Backed by research, StemWave stimulates stem cell activity and angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation). This can improve blood flow to the treated area up to 30%, further increasing the healing power of the treatment. A 2022 meta-analysis in the American Journal of Sports Medicine found it effective for tendonopathies, with improvement rates over 70%. At our Waukee clinic, we combine this evidence-based approach with personalized plans so our patients can reach their own individual goals. Link to study here
Frequently Asked Questions About StemWave Therapy
We will bill the auto insurance directly on your behalf. Call the office if you have questions about pricing before booking.
StemWave uses focused, high-energy acoustic waves designed for precision targeting of specific tissue layers. It differs from some radial pressure wave devices in its penetration depth and energy delivery. Dr. Lindstrom can explain the distinction as it applies to your condition.
Most patients with tendinitis or localized joint pain complete 4 to 8 sessions. More complex or longstanding conditions may require 8 to 12. Your plan will be based on your initial assessment.
Mild temporary soreness or redness at the treatment site is the most common response. It typically resolves within 24 to 48 hours. Serious side effects are uncommon.
Book a StemWave Appointment at Core Chiropractic
Dr. Lindstrom is accepting new patients at Core Chiropractic, 1360 E. Hickman Rd., Waukee, IA. If you have a tendon injury, chronic joint pain, or a condition that has not responded to other care, StemWave therapy may be worth exploring as part of your treatment plan.
