Shockwave therapy
Shock wave therapy is a physical form of therapy that has been used in human orthopedics since the 1990s. Shock wave therapy is also being used more and more in veterinary medicine.
What are shock waves and how do they work?
Physically, shock waves are acoustic waves. They can propagate in the body like a pressure wave. This energy develops its force when the shock wave hits an obstacle and is absorbed. In the body of an animal, this "obstacle" is then hardened tissue, bones or calcifications.
The shock waves stimulate the tissue, promote blood circulation and cell metabolism. This favors remodeling and healing processes, reduces pain, and improves mobility by remodeling and breaking down hardened and calcified tissue.
The extracorporeal shock wave used in orthopedics lasts only a few milliseconds but several thousand 'shocks' are administered per treatment.
Fields of application in small animal medicine
- Osteoarthritis patients
Especially for thickened joint capsules with scarring and calcification (restriction of mobility) of elbows, knees, or toes.
- Chronic inflammation of tendons and ligaments
e.g. chronic biceps tendonitis in dogs and calcifications.
- Delayed healing for fractures
to activate slowed or even stopped healing.
Procedure
One treatment usually consists of two to three sessions lasting about 15-20 min. Many patients tolerate the treatment well and do not require sedation, as pain inhibition already occurs during the therapy.
However, if we have to treat particularly painful areas, areas very deep inside the body, or if it is a rather anxious or nervous patient, medication sedation in combination with pain therapy should be considered in the treatment.
A therapy is only possible and responsible after an exact diagnosis!
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