Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment used in veterinary medicine for cats and dogs to help manage pain, promote healing, and improve mobility.

What is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy involves the use of high-energy sound waves, which are directed at a specific area of the body. These sound waves stimulate healing by increasing blood flow, reducing inflammation, and encouraging tissue regeneration.

How Does it Help?

• Pain Relief: The therapy interrupts pain signals and stimulates the release of endorphins, providing relief for chronic or acute pain.
• Improved Healing: It enhances the healing process by increasing circulation to the treated area and encouraging the growth of new blood vessels.
• Reduced Inflammation: Shockwave therapy helps reduce inflammation in tissues, aiding in recovery.
• Enhanced Mobility: By relieving pain and reducing stiffness, it can improve joint and muscle function.

Common Uses in Cats and Dogs

• Osteoarthritis
• Tendon and ligament injuries
• Hip or elbow dysplasia

The number and frequency of shockwave therapy treatments for cats and dogs depend on the condition being treated and the individual patient’s needs. Generally:

Number of Treatments

• Chronic Conditions (e.g., arthritis, tendon injuries): Often require 3–5 treatments.
• Acute Conditions (e.g., fractures, soft tissue injuries): May require fewer treatments, typically 1–3 sessions.

Frequency of Treatments

• Treatments are usually spaced 1–3 weeks apart, depending on the severity of the condition and the patient’s response to therapy.

Follow-Up

• Many pets show improvement after just one session, but a full treatment course ensures lasting benefits.
• In chronic conditions, periodic maintenance treatments may be recommended every few months to manage ongoing symptoms.

The veterinarian overseeing the treatment will tailor the plan to the pet’s specific condition and monitor progress to adjust the schedule as needed.