Equine Shockwave Therapy in Albuquerque, NM

Equine shockwave therapy is a fairly recent innovation in the field of veterinary medicine. It has been shown to produce excellent results in the treatment of many types of soft tissue and orthopedic injuries and conditions. It is a safe, painless, and non-intrusive procedure that can significantly speed up the healing process in horses with bone and joint diseases and both acute and chronic soft tissue injuries and back pain. It is also very useful for alleviating pain, inflammation, and swelling. Chastain Equine Medicine in Albuquerque, NM, is proud to offer our clients equine shockwave therapy using our cutting-edge NeoVet shockwave device.

How Does Equine Shock Wave Therapy Work?

Shockwave therapy has nothing to do with an electric shock. Rather, it uses a high-frequency sound-generating device that produces a hydraulic pressure wave in the fluids that surround the internal structures of a horse’s body and limbs, much as a pebble tossed into a pond produces outward flowing ripples. The shockwaves used for veterinary treatment are produced inside a hand-held transducing head that is also filled with fluid, which allows them to be narrowly focused on the specific area to be treated. These waves readily pass through skin, muscle, and fat tissues. When they encounter a solid surface such as bone, the waves are slowed and reflected, releasing a large amount of energy in the process. Although scientists still dispute exactly how shockwave therapy works, it has been shown to accelerate the process of tissue regeneration and bone growth, reduce swelling and inflammation, increase blood flow, and stimulate stem cells in injured areas. It also helps to reduce pain and prevent the formation of scar tissue. The treatment is entirely non-invasive and painless and in many cases can eliminate the need for surgery and other procedures.

Conditions Commonly Treated With Equine Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is remarkably versatile and can be used to treat many soft tissue injuries and conditions and bony problems both acute and chronic. These include but are not limited to:

Shockwave Therapy Treatment Procedure

Shockwave treatments will vary depending on the nature of the injury or condition to be treated. The energy intensity of the shockwaves can be adjusted with the device and the number of treatments will depend on the individual patient’s diagnosis. Generally, most conditions can be successfully treated with three shockwave sessions spaced at two or three-week intervals. In some cases involving more serious injuries, additional sessions may be required. Equine shockwave treatments can be easily administered by your equine vet at your facility with your horse under mild sedation. Usually, there will be a noticeable reduction in pain and swelling within a few hours of treatment. These initial results will last for a few days, then the horse will revert back to its original condition. The actual permanent healing will begin to take place within two or three weeks afterward.

The NeoVet Equine Shockwave Device

Chastain Equine Medicine uses the NeoVet, a focused shockwave device that represents the next generation in shockwave treatment. It builds on the success of the former gold standard machine used in veterinary medicine, but the Neo was developed specifically for equine practice. The Neo combines 14 years of research with Swiss engineering and invaluable veterinary feedback and experience. Additionally, the energy level and the depth of penetration of the shockwaves can be varied to suit the injury.

Chastain Equine Medicine is ready to serve you in Albuquerque, NM. Contact us anytime to schedule an appointment.