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PULSEVET The Basics and Benefits of Shock Wave Therapy for Horses. By PHOEBE BROWN Originally published in The Plaid Horse. Reprinted with permission.
H
orses carry the dreams, hopes, and goals of equestrians in all disciplines. Riders, owners, trainers, veterinarians, farriers, and countless others work hard to put horse welfare first. In the equine industry, various modalities are used to maintain the health and well-being of horses, including shock wave therapy. The term shock wave is a bit of a misnomer because there is no shock delivered. The goal of any treatment is to reduce pain and improve how horses feel and heal. However, while many therapies appear similar to shock wave, they are all vastly different. While shock wave therapy offers many health and healing benefits to horses, PulseVet’s Director of Client Education, Trudy Gage, says, “Not all shock wave is the same, and not all shock wave is created equal. Find one that is made in the U.S. and backed by science.” Understanding shock wave therapy and where to find licensed veterinarians providing this treatment are added tools in the horse welfare toolbox.
SHOCK WAVE THERAPY BASICS
According to the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), shock wave therapy for horses, or extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), is a noninvasive treatment option which
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uses sound waves to promote the healing of joints, ligaments, tendons, and wounds. It is completely noninvasive. Instead of going straight to invasive procedures, such as injections, licensed veterinarians can deliver a safe and effective treatment that helps the horse’s body regenerate healthy tissue to promote healing from within, shock wave treatment has no negative side effects.
“Protect your horse and your pocketbook. Know what you’re paying for because the results will not be the same if you go with an unproven, not covered treatment.” —Trudy Gage, Director of Client Education
The goals of shock wave therapy include increasing blood flow, improving the growth of new blood vessels, providing pain relief, reducing inflammation, and promoting a healing environment in the treated area.
HOW SHOCK WAVE THERAPY WORKS
Shock wave treatment is provided using a machine that has a trode attached to a generator unit. The unit sends the
sound waves directly to the treatment area through the trode. Typically, there are several trode sizes that penetrate different depths of tissue. This gives the veterinarians the ability to treat various indications from superficial injuries to deep injuries of the muscles, joints, or even the spine. Because of the high-energy treatments and immediate pain relief offered, only licensed veterinarians should prescribe treatment. Be aware of anyone claiming to provide a shock wave treatment who is not a veterinarian. Check with your governing body regarding regulations on shock wave therapy treatments before and during competition.
CONDITIONS TREATED BY SHOCK WAVE THERAPY
This type of therapy can be used for acute injuries, chronic conditions, and as a prophylactic for general wellness. Numerous studies have proven the effectiveness of shock wave therapy. Many common equine conditions (acute or chronic) benefit from shock wave therapy, including: • Tendonitis • Ligament injuries and inflammation • Osteoarthritis • Fractures and bone injuries • Navicular disease
