Shockwave Therapy, or Extracorporeal Shockwave Treatment (ESWT), has gathered much attention for its effective treatment of chronic orthopedic conditions in animals.
ESWT is a non-invasive treatment option that is widely used for reducing pain and inflammation in dogs, cats and horses.
Dr. Meghan Barrett is now offering this innovative therapy for her rehabilitation patients!
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about ESWT for animals.
What is Shockwave Therapy (EWST)?
ESWT is the use of pulsed high energy sound waves to stimulate the body’s natural healing process in injured or damaged areas. Treatments will increase circulation to tissues and collagen production, and decrease inflammation and calcium deposits. This therapy has been used for years to treat various musculoskeletal problems in both humans and animals. It is highly effective in treating conditions such as arthritis, hip and elbow dysplasia, and non-healing wounds.
Photo from http://pulsevet.com/
How does Shockwave Therapy work?
During an ESWT treatment session, Dr. Barrett uses a specialized wand to emit shockwaves into the affected areas. These shockwaves penetrate deep into the tissues, stimulating the body’s natural healing process, and promoting the formation of new blood vessels. The result is increased blood flow and the stimulation of the body’s healing response. The sound waves penetrate deeper than the light energy from laser therapy.
The treatment may need to be repeated 1-3 times two to three weeks apart. For treatment of osteoarthritis, treatment may be repeated annually or semi annually.
The shockwave therapy unit that Dr. Barrett uses does not typically require sedation or anesthesia.
Benefits of ESWT for Animals
- Non-invasive treatment option
- Decreases pain and inflammation
- Increases range of motion
- Accelerates healing
- Replaces the need for surgery in some cases
Is ESWT Safe for Animals?
Yes, ESWT is a safe and effective treatment option for animals, but it must be performed by a qualified veterinary professional. The treatment has been extensively studied over the years and has shown no significant negative side effects. It is an FDA approved treatment and is often covered by pet insurance.
Conclusion
ESWT is an innovative and safe treatment option for animals with chronic injuries, orthopedic conditions, and slow-healing wounds. It is quickly gaining recognition within the veterinary community for its effectiveness in reducing pain and inflammation, increasing range of motion, and accelerating healing. It is a non-invasive alternative that replaces the need for surgery in some cases. If you’re considering this therapy for your animal, be sure to contact Dr. Barrett to discuss what ESWT can offer!
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