| Shock Wave Therapy.
What are shock waves? The thunder after lightning is a well known shock wave. Shockwaves are pressure waves characterized by rapid increases in pressure to 1000 times atmospheric pressure followed by a rapid decrease to a negative pressure. In medicine these waves are formed outside the body (extracorporeal) and focused into tissue by a special probe. In urology it is referred to as lithotripsy, used for breaking up stones, and in orthopaedics as shock wave therapy. Focused shock waves enable precise tissue depths to receive stimulation. How are shock waves different from ultrasound? They are different from ultrasound waves in that they have a lower frequency , minimal tissue absorption and don’t heat up the tissues. How does it promote healing? The exact nature of the healing mechanism is still under debate. It is felt that shock waves enhance circulation to an area and cause local release of cellular mediators, such as growth factor, that promote healing. The end result is that tissue remodeling and healing is achieved with minimal or no side-effects. This is exciting news for the treatment of many lower leg injuries to horses, which have poor or delayed healing times. Studies have shown that tendons injuries treated by shock wave had an increase in tensile strength compared to the control group. Neovascularization, a term used for ingrowth of new blood vessels, seems to be a major contribution to tendon healing after shock wave therapy. Recruitment of local stem cells is yet another aspect of its proposed effects. Its effects on bone seems to be one of stimulating fracture healing and combating osteoporosis. We have had cases of obstinate arthritis respond and can only assume that the affects are on the joint capsule and adjacent bone. How is shockwave treatment performed? First, a veterinarian must determine the exact source of the pain. A radiographic or ultrasound exam allows the proper depth of treatment to be established. Sedation is required for application of the shockwaves, which takes no more than 10-20 minutes per site. Most horses require a series of one to three treatments; each one administered about 2-3 weeks apart. Conditions vary but appropriate healing time and a controlled exercise program should be established prior to return to work. What injuries will benefit from Shockwave Therapy? Here is a list of some of the more common areas that are being treated. This is an expanding field and more applications are appearing all the time.
Racing Rules BC racing commission has followed the example of other jurisdictions and does not allow racing within 4 days of therapy. It was initially thought that shock waves are temporarily numbing nerves and injured horses could compete with severe injuries. Studies indicate that the majority of pain relief occurs secondary to the healing process and any direct numbing would not extend past 24 hours. Results: Shock wave therapy usually enhances the quality of healing and appears to shorten the convalescence time by about one third. It is used in conjunction with other therapies as needed. We have been using this technology since the fall of 2003 and continue to have very positive results. If interested in watching a short video of the shock wave in action please view our website at www.horsebc.com/kvs. |