Shiftwave: A Deployable Solution for Rapid Recovery, Stress Reduction, and Enhanced Human Performance for Air Force Operational Support Teams
AFWERX · AFWERX STRATFI · AFWERX
Award
Description
The United States Air Force faces increasing challenges related to high operational tempo, sustained stress exposure, and musculoskeletal injuries, leading to reduced warfighter readiness, prolonged recovery times, and cognitive impairment. Current recovery solutions—such as cold plunges, red light therapy, and float tanks—are impractical for field deployment and require trained personnel, limiting their scalability.Shiftwave presents an innovative, field-deployable solution that leverages Pulsed Pressure Wave (PPW) technology to accelerate recovery, reduce stress, and enhance cognitive function without requiring medical personnel. The system integrates whole-body vibration (WBV) principles and has been scientifically validated in clinical trials and operational testing with elite U.S. military personnel, professional athletes, and special operations forces.This Phase II effort will focus on military-specific adaptations, testing, and integration to ensure Shiftwave meets the rigorous demands of Air Force personnel. Key objectives include:Field testing Shiftwave with Air Force Operational Support Teams (OSTs) to refine protocols for stress mitigation, pain reduction, and autonomic nervous system regulation.Conducting controlled scientific studies in collaboration with AFRL STRONG Lab and Ohio State University to validate Shiftwave’s physiological benefits using biomarkers, self-reported stress data, and sleep tracking metrics.Ruggedizing Shiftwave for austere environments, ensuring durability under extreme operational conditions (heat, sand, water, and high-intensity use).Addressing cybersecurity compliance for safe integration into Air Force networks.With over $7.3M in commercial sales and existing adoption by NFL, UFC, and corporate wellness programs, Shiftwave has demonstrated strong market traction. A $2M funding commitment from SOCOM S&T further supports its transition into the TACFI, STRATFI, and AFWERX Phase III procurement pathways.By the end of Phase II, Shiftwave will deliver a fully optimized, Air Force-ready recovery system, positioning it for wide-scale DoD adoption to enhance warfighter resilience, operational performance, and mission readiness.