What is Shock Wave Therapy?

Shock wave uses high-energy sound waves – called pulses or shock waves – to stimulate and speed the body’s own healing process. These sound waves release higher energy and result in deeper penetration than an ultrasound or laser. The waves travel through soft tissue at different depths to a specific treatment area and begin healing. The high-energy sound waves stimulate cells and release healing growth factors in the body that reduce inflammation and swelling, increase blood flow, and help bones form and heal and enhance wound healing.

What conditions can it treat?

Backed by more than a decade of clinical research, shock waves can be used to reduce lameness, increase mobility, and relieve pain in dogs with:

  • Osteoarthritis

  • Tendon/ligament injuries

  • Wounds

  • Bone fractures

  • Back Pain

  • Shoulder Instability

  • Shock wave is noninvasive, so it can be used in these conditions as an alternative to surgery, instead of increased non-steroidal pharmaceuticals, or as part of a rehab plan.

Shock wave is not indicated for dogs who have neoplasia, over a laminectomy site, or an unstable disc.

What to Expect

During Treatment: An average treatment is relatively fast and easy, typically 5-10 minutes total. With our new X-Trode handpiece, we are able to cover a much larger volume of tissue with a significantly reduced peak energy, which leads to a much more comfortable treatment. This means your pet will no longer need sedation for treatment with ProPulse. It is recommended to shave/clip the dog so that the sound waves are not interrupted. The treatment can be loud so sound sensitive dogs may need extra reinforcement. We recommend bringing high value treats, lick mats, or a frozen toppl to keep your dog occupied during the treatment.
Post Treatment: It takes time for the biological responses in the body to take effect and begin healing. Your pet should not take part in any strenuous or high-impact activity during this period, even if it appears it is feeling better. The healing is not complete, so give your pet some rest.

How Much Does it Cost

For most conditions 3 sessions total is recommended for optimal healing.

3 session package: $500. These sessions include complementary laser immediately after the shock wave treatment to allow to optimal healing. Our 3 session package must be used at the recommended 2 week interval. Package will expire after 8 weeks if not used.

My Personal Experience with Shock Wave for my dog with LS Disease

My dog, Soren, was diagnosed with lumbosacral (LS) disease at the age of 5 years old. Unfortunately this ended his career in dog sports, but shock wave has given him the opportunity to be able to be a pet dog again!