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The thunder after lightning is a well known shock wave. Shockwaves are characterised 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 and in orthopaedics as shock wave therapy. Focused shock waves enable precise tissue depths to receive stimulation. 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 remodelling 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.

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. We recommend that a controlled exercise program be established prior to return to work.

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.

• Suspensory Ligaments
• Bowed tendons
• Sore backs
• Ringbone
• Bucked shins
• Splints
• Stress fractures
• Navicular syndrome
• Joint disease (sore hocks)
• Delayed unions

Results:

Shock wave therapy usually enhances the quality of healing and appears to shorten the duration 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.