Non-Surgical
StemWave Treatment
If you are not ready for surgery and want a treatment that supports your body’s natural healing process, StemWave may be right for you.
StemWave Therapy
with Dr. Drew Ratner
StemWave Therapy is an advanced, non-invasive treatment designed to reduce pain and stimulate healing in injured or chronically inflamed tissues. Using targeted acoustic wave technology, StemWave activates the body’s natural repair processes—helping patients recover without surgery, injections, or downtime.
At American Orthopedics, Dr. Drew Ratner offers StemWave as part of a comprehensive approach to orthopedic care. For patients dealing with persistent tendon pain or soft tissue injuries, this treatment provides an effective alternative when traditional therapies haven’t delivered results.
Many patients experience meaningful improvement in pain and function—allowing them to return to activity faster and avoid more invasive procedures.
“My goal is always to help patients heal without surgery whenever possible. StemWave Therapy allows us to stimulate the body’s natural repair process and treat pain at its source.”
- Dr. Drew Ratner, MD, Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon
Why Patients Choose Dr. Ratner
The region’s most preferred orthopedic surgeon
At American Orthopedics, patients receive expert care in a personalized, patient-first environment.
Advanced Non-Surgical Expertise
Dr. Ratner specializes in both surgical and non-surgical treatments, ensuring you receive the right approach for your condition.
Personalized Treatment Plans
Every patient receives a customized care plan based on their goals, lifestyle, and injury.
Continuity of Care
You’ll work directly with Dr. Ratner from consultation through treatment and follow-up.
1. Fellowship-Trained Sports Medicine Surgeon
Dr. Ratner trained at one of the nation’s top sports medicine fellowships, giving him advanced experience in treating chronic pain with non-surgical & surgical treatments.
2. Consistent, Personalized Care
Patients see Dr. Ratner at every stage—from diagnosis to treatment, to follow-up. No handoffs, no confusion—just direct, one-on-one care.
3. Modern Tools, Boutique Experience
With access to advanced surgical & non-surgical tools, mobile-friendly scheduling, and minimal wait times, patients receive expert care in a warm, welcoming environment.
How the procedure works.
StemWave Therapy works by delivering high-energy acoustic waves directly to the affected area. These waves penetrate the tissue and stimulate a cascade of healing responses, including:
- Increased blood flow to the injured area
- Activation of stem cells and growth factors
- Breakdown of scar tissue and calcifications
- Improved tissue regeneration and repair
The treatment is performed in-office and typically takes only a few minutes per session. Because it is non-invasive, there is no need for anesthesia or recovery time.
Who Is a Candidate?
StemWave Therapy is ideal for patients experiencing chronic pain or soft tissue injuries that have not improved with conservative treatment.
You may be a candidate if you have:
- Persistent tendon or ligament pain
- Chronic inflammation or overuse injuries
- Pain that has not improved with rest or therapy
- A desire to avoid injections or surgery
It is commonly used for both active individuals and patients dealing with everyday orthopedic conditions.
During your consultation, Dr. Ratner will evaluate your condition and determine whether StemWave Therapy is the right option for your recovery.
What Conditions can StemWave Treat?
StemWave Therapy is commonly used to treat a variety of orthopedic conditions, including:
- Plantar fasciitis (heel pain)
- Achilles tendonitis
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
- Golfer’s elbow
- Patellar tendonitis (jumper’s knee)
- Shoulder pain and rotator cuff tendonitis
- Chronic soft tissue injuries
By targeting the root cause of pain, StemWave helps restore function and improve mobility.
Benefits of StemWave Therapy
StemWave offers a number of advantages for patients seeking a non-surgical solution:
- Non-invasive treatment with no incisions
- No downtime or recovery period
- Quick in-office sessions
- Stimulates natural healing
- Reduces chronic pain
- May help avoid injections or surgery
Because it enhances the body’s own healing response, many patients experience long-lasting improvements.
What to Expect
Experience advanced care at American Orthopedics.
1. Your consultation
StemWave Therapy is performed in the office and does not require anesthesia.
During treatment:
- A handheld device is applied to the targeted area
- Acoustic waves are delivered to the tissue
- Each session typically lasts 5–10 minutes
Most patients describe the sensation as mild discomfort during treatment, followed by relief shortly afterward.
2. The Procedure
One of the biggest advantages of StemWave Therapy is that there is no downtime.
Immediately after treatment:
- Patients can return to normal daily activity
- Mild soreness may occur but typically resolves quickly
Over the following weeks:
- Pain gradually decreases
- Mobility and function improve
- Healing continues as the body responds to treatment
Most patients undergo a series of treatments for optimal results.
3. After Surgery
One of the biggest advantages of StemWave Therapy is that there is no downtime.
Immediately after treatment:
- Patients can return to normal daily activity
- Mild soreness may occur but typically resolves quickly
Over the following weeks:
- Pain gradually decreases
- Mobility and function improve
- Healing continues as the body responds to treatment
Most patients undergo a series of treatments for optimal results.
Advanced care for maxium results & comfort
StemWave Recovery Tips
Stay Consistent with Treatments
Completing the recommended series of sessions is key to achieving the best outcome.
Follow Activity Guidance
Avoid overloading the treated area while healing is underway.
Stay Active, but Controlled
Light movement helps promote circulation and recovery.
Communicate Progress
Keep Dr. Ratner informed about your symptoms so adjustments can be made if needed.
With consistency and support, most patients achieve excellent outcomes and return to their active lifestyle.
FAQ
Q: Is StemWave Therapy painful?
Q: How many treatments will I need?
A: Most patients require a series of sessions, typically spaced over several weeks, depending on the condition.
Q: When will I see results?
A: Some patients notice improvement after the first treatment, with continued progress over time.
Q: Is StemWave better than injections or surgery?
A: StemWave is often used as a non-invasive alternative before considering injections or surgery.
