Skip the Knife--Try Shock Wave Therapy
In recent years a new treatment method called Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) has been available to veterinary patients after showing promising results in humans. Although it sounds a bit scary, the shock waves are actually high-energy, focused sound waves that speed healing of a range of problems including bone fractures, ligament injuries, and even arthritis. Because doctors can skip the scalpel with this treatment method, patients do not develop additional scar tissue which is often a painful side effect to surgery.
ESWT was first used for human patients in the early 1990s. By the latter part of this decade veterinarians began utilizing these sound waves for treating musculoskeletal disorders in horses with excellent results. Riding on the wave of this success, experimental treatment then began in dogs suffering from orthopedic conditions. In 2003 a survey of veterinarians that were using ESWT in dogs found that about 70 percent of their clients reported a “remarkable” response.
While formal studies on the canine population are currently limited, ESWT may likely benefit your dog if they suffer from osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia, or tendonitis. Results appear strongest for injuries to the shoulders, back, and hips. ESWT is also used to treat another highly common injury in dogs: cruciate ligament tears. For this affliction, ESWT may be used to speed healing from surgical treatment or, in some cases, as a substitute for surgery altogether. Also, ESWT can be used either alone or in conjunction with other types of therapies like hydrotherapy and acupuncture.
The procedure itself can be painful so dogs are usually placed under anesthesia or heavy sedation before the shock waves are administered. Most dog owners notice marked improvement within a week of treatment. A second round of shock waves is typically needed a few weeks later then annual or biannual treatments may be performed to maintain good results.
If you think ESWT could help your dog, consult your veterinarian. Before shock wave therapy can be used on your pet a thorough physical examination must be performed. Each patient also must be healthy enough to receive anesthesia. Although ESWT is generally considered safe, it is important to remember it is still an experimental procedure.
--Dr. Hinson
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Dr. Hinson is a mixed animal veterinarian in Tampa, FL and a regular contributor to Wag Reflex.
arthritis on September 10, 2009 at 06:45 AM
I heard a lot about "Shock Wave Therapy" but haven't try it. And I am thinking to try it...
chronic arthritis on February 04, 2010 at 05:48 AM
There are over 100 kinds of arthritis that can affect many different areas of the body. In addition to the joints, some forms of arthritis are associated with diseases of other tissues and organs in the body. People of all ages, including children and young adults, can develop arthritis.
joesen on December 14, 2010 at 09:34 PM
Because doctors can skip the scalpel with this treatment method, patients do not develop additional scar tissue which is often a painful side effect to surgery.
podiatrist on September 05, 2011 at 12:09 AM
Shock therapy is a pulsar based treatment that is non-invasive. It can relieve and cure tendonitis.
podiatrist on September 05, 2011 at 12:09 AM
Shock therapy is a pulsar based treatment that is non-invasive. It can relieve and cure tendonitis.
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