Shockwave therapy is based on the use of sound waves which stimulate tissues to repair themselves.
Shockwave can be particularly effective for osteoarthritis, lumbosacral disease, tendinopathies and ligament injuries and has been used to treat a range of other conditions. It can be effective in restarting an inflammatory (healing) response in a chronic inflammatory condition.
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy involves admitting shockwaves to a specific body part where your pet is in pain. The interaction of the high-intensity sound waves with the tissues of the pet's body stimulates blood vessels, reduces chronic inflammation, increases collagen formation, and dissolves calcium deposits. Applying shockwaves to a non-healing location is thought to stimulate healing and ease discomfort in those with chronic illnesses.
Shockwave therapy for pets uses a sonic pulse combined with high-energy acoustic waves, paired with high pressure. The treatment cycle is brief, lasting only a few minutes, and the energy generated by the sonic pulse needs to be concentrated to provide the highest level of care.
The Procedure
For pets with painful conditions or highly sensitive injuries, they may be sedated so they remain calm and the treatment can be performed fully and accurately. The area to be treated will need shaving for optimum contact. A gel will be placed on the skin and the wand used to deliver the therapy is applied to the area to produce the shockwaves. The treatment itself is short however the total preparation time and aftercare will lengthen the total process.
Shockwave therapy is often repeated every two or three weeks. We find that shockwave therapy is generally well tolerated and many pets will tolerate treatment conscious. For some areas sensitive pets or painful conditions, sedation may be required.