Equine Shockwave Therapy

Equine Shockwave Therapy

 

Shockwave therapy for horses, also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment modality used to manage various

musculoskeletal conditions and injuries in horses. It involves the application of high-energy acoustic waves to targeted areas of the horse's body. Here's an overview of the working principle of shockwave therapy for horses:

Generation of Shockwaves: Shockwaves are generated electromagnetically. Electromagnetic shockwave generators use a projectile mechanism to create shockwaves.

Application: A trained veterinarian or therapist applies the shockwave device to the specific area of the horse's body requiring treatment. The device emits controlled shockwaves that penetrate through the tissues to the desired depth. In some circumstances coupling gel is required.

Some horses may require sedation prior to treatment.

Please consult your veterinarian before use.

 

DISCLAIMER:

SV Equine Therapy Equine Wave generates a powerful mechanical

wave. It's not intended for the diagnosis, treatment or cure of any

physical or medical condition, if your horse is experiencing the

symptoms of a physical or medical condition, you should seek the

advice of your medical professional immediately.

 

The purchaser and/or user of our Equine Shockwave unit sold on this site are fully responsible for their actions in the use, in any way, of the shockwave products.  The purchaser and/or user of our Equine Shockwave unit sold on this site, www.sv-equestrian.com, understands and agrees to these terms before they buy, or, in any way, use these products for any reason whatsoever.  The buyer of these products understands and agrees that the Equine Shockwave unit sold here are sold for and intended for animal use only.

 

ONLY USE UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF YOUR VETERINARIAN.

CONSULT YOUR VETERINARIAN IF YOU FEEL UNSURE ABOUT USING THIS DEVICE.

 

Mechanical Effects: Shockwaves create mechanical forces that induce microtrauma at the cellular level in the targeted tissues. This microtrauma triggers the body's natural healing response, initiating the repair process.

Biological Effects: Shockwave therapy stimulates the release of various biological substances, including growth factors, cytokines, and other signaling molecules. These substances promote tissue regeneration, angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels, and modulation of inflammation.

Pain Relief: Shockwave therapy can help alleviate pain by disrupting pain signals and promoting the release of endorphins, the body's natural pain-relieving chemicals.

Enhanced Blood Flow: Shockwaves improve blood circulation in the treated area, which facilitates the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the tissues, further aiding in the healing process.

Reduction of Scar Tissue: Shockwave therapy can help break down scar tissue and adhesions, promoting better tissue mobility and function.

Controlled Treatment: The intensity, frequency, and duration of shockwave therapy are carefully controlled by the therapist based on the specific condition being treated, the horse's response, and other factors.

Post-Treatment Care: After shockwave therapy, horses may require rest or modified activity to allow for optimal healing. Additional supportive therapies, such as physical therapy or anti-inflammatory medications, may be recommended as part of the treatment plan.

Indications

Tendon and Ligament Injuries: Shockwave therapy can be beneficial in the management of tendon and ligament injuries such as bowed tendons, suspensory ligament injuries, and desmitis. It helps stimulate healing, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue regeneration in these structures.

Muscle Strains and Tears: Shockwave therapy can aid in the healing of muscle strains, tears, and overuse injuries by promoting tissue repair and reducing pain and inflammation.

Osteoarthritis: Shockwave therapy is often used as part of a multimodal approach to manage osteoarthritis in horses. It helps alleviate pain, improve joint function, and promote cartilage repair in affected joints such as the fetlock, hock, and stifle.

Back Pain and Sacroiliac Dysfunction: Horses suffering from back pain or sacroiliac dysfunction may benefit from shockwave therapy to reduce muscle tension, improve mobility and alleviate discomfort in the affected area.

Navicular Syndrome: Shockwave therapy can be used as a complementary treatment for navicular syndrome to reduce pain, improve blood flow, and promote healing in the affected structures, such as the navicular bone, deep digital flexor tendon, and associated soft tissues.

Soreness and Trigger Points: Shockwave therapy can help relieve muscle soreness and trigger points in various areas of the horse's body, promoting relaxation and improved muscle function.

Bone Fractures: In some cases, shockwave therapy may be used to promote healing and accelerate the recovery process in certain types of bone fractures, particularly stress fractures and non-union fractures.

 Wound Healing: Shockwave therapy may aid in the healing of certain types of wounds, particularly chronic or slow-healing wounds, by promoting tissue regeneration and angiogenesis.

Buck Shins: Be careful around Buck Shins as horses are very sensitive in around this area. You may need to sedate them heavily under the guidance of your veterinarian for the first time in that area and turn down the power.

 

Contraindications

 

Pregnancy: Shockwave therapy should not be performed on pregnant mares, particularly during the first trimester, as the effects of shockwaves on fetal development are not well understood.

Open Wounds or Infections: Shockwave therapy should not be applied directly over open wounds or areas with active infections. Doing so could introduce bacteria into the tissues or exacerbate existing infections.

Fractures: Shockwave therapy should not be used on acute fractures or unstable bone injuries. Applying shockwaves to fractured bones can increase the risk of displacement or delay proper healing.

Severe Soft Tissue Injuries: In cases of severe soft tissue injuries, such as extensive tendon or ligament tears, shockwave therapy may not be appropriate initially. It's essential to stabilize the injury and allow for some degree of healing before considering shockwave therapy.

 Cancerous Tumors: Shockwave therapy should not be performed over known or suspected cancerous tumors. The mechanical effects of shockwaves could potentially stimulate tumor growth or metastasis.

Acute Laminitis: In cases of acute laminitis, where there is significant inflammation and damage to the lamellar tissue, shockwave therapy may exacerbate the condition. It's important to address the underlying laminitic episode before considering shockwave therapy.

Metal Implants or Hardware: Shockwave therapy should not be applied directly over metal implants or hardware, such as screws, plates, or nails, as it could cause discomfort or damage to the surrounding tissues. You may need to sedate them heavily under the guidance of your veterinarian for the first time in that area and turn down the power and work around the edges.

Neurological Disorders: Horses with certain neurological disorders or conditions affecting their ability to perceive sensory stimuli may not be suitable candidates for shockwave therapy. The intense pressure from shockwaves could potentially cause undue stress or discomfort.

Skin Sensitivity or Hypersensitivity: Horses with known skin sensitivities or hypersensitivity reactions may not tolerate shockwave therapy well. Care should be taken to assess the horse's skin condition and sensitivity before proceeding with treatment.

 Blood Clotting Disorders: Horses with underlying blood clotting disorders or on anticoagulant medications may have an increased risk of bleeding or hematoma formation with shockwave therapy.