Shockwave Therapy for Horses: An Innovative Tool for Equine Injury Management
When it comes to keeping our horses comfortable, healthy, and performing at their best, having different treatment options available can make a big difference. One treatment that has become increasingly popular in equine veterinary medicine is Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT).
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic (sound) waves to target specific areas of the body. It can be a helpful addition to a horse's treatment and rehabilitation plan, particularly when dealing with certain tendon, ligament, joint, and musculoskeletal conditions.
But what exactly is shockwave therapy, and how can it help your horse?
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy uses high-energy sound waves that are delivered through a handheld device placed against the horse's skin. These waves travel into the targeted tissues, creating mechanical stimulation that may encourage local circulation, influence cellular activity, and help support the body's natural healing processes.
In addition to its potential benefits for tissue healing, shockwave therapy can also provide temporary pain relief.
Unlike surgery or injections, shockwave therapy is non-invasive and does not require an incision or injection into the affected area.
What Conditions Can Shockwave Therapy Help Treat?
Shockwave therapy is commonly used as part of a treatment plan for several equine musculoskeletal conditions, including:
Suspensory ligament injuries: Including suspensory body and branch injuries.
Tendon injuries: Such as superficial and deep digital flexor tendon injuries.
Osteoarthritis: May help manage discomfort associated with certain joint conditions.
Back and muscle soreness: Can be used in selected cases involving muscular discomfort and back pain.
Chronic soft tissue injuries: May be beneficial for certain injuries that have been slow to respond to traditional treatment.
Every horse and injury is different, so shockwave therapy is not appropriate for every condition. A veterinary examination is important to determine whether it is a good option.
What Does a Shockwave Treatment Involve?
One of the benefits of shockwave therapy is that it is relatively quick and non-invasive.
During treatment, the veterinarian identifies the area that needs attention. A special contact gel is applied to the skin, and the shockwave applicator is placed over the targeted area.
The device delivers a series of acoustic pulses to the affected tissue. Treatment settings, including the depth and intensity of the waves, are adjusted based on the injury and the individual horse.
Some horses may require light sedation to remain comfortable and relaxed during the procedure.
A treatment plan may involve multiple sessions spaced over several weeks, depending on the condition being treated and the horse's response.
What Happens After Treatment?
Rest and appropriate rehabilitation are important parts of the shockwave therapy process.
Although shockwave therapy can temporarily reduce pain, this does not necessarily mean an injury has healed. In fact, temporary pain relief can make it especially important to follow your veterinarian's exercise and rest recommendations.
Horses are generally given a period of rest following treatment, with a gradual return to activity based on the underlying injury and veterinary rechecks.
For tendon and ligament injuries, follow-up ultrasound examinations may be recommended to monitor healing and help determine when it is safe to increase exercise.
Is Shockwave Therapy Right for Your Horse?
Shockwave therapy is another tool available to help manage equine injuries and support rehabilitation. It is not a replacement for a thorough lameness evaluation, diagnostic imaging, appropriate rest, or a well-planned rehabilitation program.
The best treatment approach depends on the type of injury, its severity, and your horse's individual needs. Your veterinarian can help determine whether shockwave therapy may be beneficial and how it can fit into an overall treatment plan.
Have questions about shockwave therapy or wondering if it might benefit your horse? We're happy to help- Contact Shoreline Equine at 231-740-3887 or office@shoreline-equinevet.com to discuss whether this treatment could be a good addition to your horse's care plan!
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