Shock wave therapy in dogs

Written by Tammy Gagne

Whenever we can treat a medical problem without the invasive step of a surgical procedure, we save our dogs’ time and energy and eliminate risks for complications such as post-operative infections. In addition to being costly, surgeries also typically require lengthy healing periods, during which an animal’s mobility is severely limited. At one time many orthopedic injuries left few other choices than operating, but advancing technology is bringing dog owners some surprising new options.

Overview

In recent years an innovative new treatment method called extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) has made the jump from human medicine to helping veterinary patients. Although it sounds a bit intimidating, the so-called shock waves are actually high-energy, focused sound waves that speed the healing of a range of problems – including bone fractures, ligament injuries, and even arthritis. Because doctors can skip the scalpel with this treatment method, patients do not develop additional scar tissue – another common and often painful side effect to surgery.

ESWT was first used for human patients in the early 1990s, but by the latter part of this decade vets began utilizing sound waves for treating musculoskeletal disorders in horses, as well. Experimental treatment in dogs suffering from orthopedic conditions began in 1999 with very good results. In 2003 a survey of small animal practitioners found that about 70 percent of their clients reported a “remarkable” response to ESWT. And another 15 percent experienced a less extreme yet still noticeable improvement.

Uses of ESWT

While formal studies on the canine population are currently limited, ESWT may likely benefit your dog if he suffers from osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia, or tendonitis. Results appear strongest for injuries to the shoulders, back, and hips. ESWT is also used to treat another highly common injury in dogs: cruciate ligament tears. For this affliction, ESWT may be used to speed healing from surgical treatment or, in some cases, as a substitute for surgery altogether. Also, ESWT can be used either alone or in conjunction with other types of therapies, such as hydrotherapy and acupuncture.

The age of the dog receiving treatment has not appeared to affect the results. Both young, active dogs and older, slower animals have shown improvement following ESWT treatment. Since the procedure itself can be painful, however, a dog is usually placed under anesthesia or heavy sedation before the shock waves are administered. Most dog owners notice marked improvement within a week of treatment. Often a second round of shock waves – typically two to three weeks later – generate even further positive results. An annual treatment may be necessary to maintain good results.

Cost

The cost of ESWT treatment can vary greatly, depending on the specific machine used and how many areas of the body are treated. The average cost is between $200 and $300 per treatment site, plus the cost of a preliminary physical exam, blood tests, and anesthesia. In many cases the cost of this procedure rivals that of the surgical route, but for many dog owners, the benefits of ESWT are worth the investment.

Think you're ready to try shock wave therapy?

If you think ESWT could help your dog, consult your veterinarian. Before shock wave therapy can be used on your pet, a thorough physical examination must be performed. Each patient also must be healthy enough to receive anesthesia. The machines that generate the sound waves can be quite loud. This is another reason sedation is advised, since many animals may find the noise frightening.

Although ESWT is generally considered safe, it is important to remember it is still an experimental procedure. It not recommended for dogs with clotting disorders, since the pulses often bruise the skin surrounding the treatment area. Above all else, make sure that any vet who performs ESWT on your pet has been trained to perform this procedure.