Description
Shockwave therapy has gained popularity in human physiotherapy for its ability to treat musculoskeletal injuries, reduce pain, and promote tissue healing. In recent years, its benefits have expanded into veterinary medicine, providing animals with a non-invasive treatment option for a range of orthopedic and soft tissue conditions. As an innovative therapy used at Next Step Physiotherapy , Shockwave Therapy Edmonton can be an effective tool for improving the quality of life for pets and working animals alike.
Applications in Veterinary Medicine
Shockwave therapy has been widely used for both pets and larger animals, such as horses. It offers a viable alternative to surgery for many conditions, particularly those affecting the musculoskeletal system. Below are some of the common veterinary applications for shockwave therapy:
Joint and Ligament Injuries
Joint and ligament injuries are common in active animals, including working dogs and performance horses. Shockwave therapy can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in injured ligaments, making it an ideal treatment for animals suffering from joint conditions such as osteoarthritis or ligament strains.
Tendon Injuries
Tendon injuries are notorious for slow healing due to the limited blood supply to the area. Shockwave therapy improves circulation and accelerates tissue repair in injured tendons, making it especially beneficial for animals with chronic tendon issues. It’s often used for horses that develop tendonitis from repetitive strain or poor biomechanics.
Bone Healing
Shockwave therapy is highly effective in stimulating bone healing. For animals with fractures, delayed bone healing, or bone infections, this treatment can promote faster recovery and reduce the need for surgical intervention.
Chronic Pain Management
For animals with chronic pain conditions, such as degenerative joint disease or arthritis, shockwave therapy can provide significant relief. It helps reduce inflammation and improves mobility, enhancing the overall quality of life for pets experiencing discomfort from age-related conditions.
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Animals
Shockwave therapy offers several benefits that make it an attractive option in veterinary care:
Non-invasive: Unlike surgical options, shockwave therapy doesn’t require anesthesia or lengthy recovery times, making it less stressful for both the animal and its owner.
Fast Treatment Time: Sessions typically last around 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated.
Accelerated Healing: By promoting the body’s natural healing process, shockwave therapy can speed up recovery and allow animals to return to their normal activities sooner.
Long-lasting Results: Many animals experience significant improvement after just a few sessions, with results lasting for several months.
How Shockwave Therapy is Performed in Veterinary Care
During a shockwave therapy session, the veterinarian or physiotherapist will apply a gel to the animal’s skin over the affected area. The shockwave device is then placed against the skin, delivering focused acoustic waves into the tissue. Most animals tolerate the procedure well, although sedation may be necessary for anxious or sensitive pets.
Acute injuries may require only a few sessions, while chronic conditions may need ongoing maintenance treatments to ensure long-term relief.
Is Shockwave Therapy Safe for Animals?
Shockwave therapy is generally safe for animals, with minimal risks and side effects. The most common side effect is mild soreness at the treatment site, which typically resolves within a few days. It is important to work with an experienced veterinary physiotherapist or veterinarian, such as those at Next Step Physiotherapy in Edmonton, to ensure the therapy is properly applied for each individual case.
Conclusion
Shockwave therapy is revolutionizing the way veterinarians treat musculoskeletal and soft tissue injuries in animals. From reducing pain and inflammation to promoting faster recovery, this non-invasive treatment offers numerous benefits for pets, working animals, and performance animals alike. At Next Step Physiotherapy in Edmonton, we are excited to bring this cutting-edge technology to our practice, providing compassionate and effective care for animals in need of rehabilitation and pain management.
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