Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT)

Dr Riggien specialises in extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), an innovative non-surgical method of pain elimination, with a particular focus on horses.

How does it work?

Shock wave therapy uses high-energy sound waves to treat orthopaedic pain by stimulating metabolic activity, activating the body’s regenerative ability, and boosting blood circulation. These radial and focused shock waves are conducted through special transmitters.

What does it do?

Shockwaves have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, and help to repair and grow bones and connective tissue. Radial shockwaves are also increasingly beneficial in the treatment of muscular imbalances, tendon problems and chronic suspensory inflammation in horses. This type of therapy is useful in providing fast pain relief and healing. The therapy usually requires only three to five sessions, and there is no need for sedation or anaesthesia. Technological advances in equipment mean that shock wave therapy can be conducted with minimal discomfort for animals, and there are no side effects.

What can it be used for?

Shock wave therapy can be used to treat a wide range of conditions in horses including:

• Chronic musculoskeletal problems
• Deep heel pain
• Ligament injures
• Muscle pain
• Sacroiliac issues
• Kissing spines
• Ringbone
• Trigger points
• Podotrochlosis syndrome
• Arthrosis
• Myopathies
• Tendinopathy
• Insertional desmopathies
• Incorrectly fitted shoes or poor hoof care

Shock wave therapy can also be used to treat conditions in dogs. These include:

• Tendinopathy
• Hip and elbow dysplasia
• Coxarthrosis
• Bubarthrosis
• Cubarthrosis
• Painful scar tissue
• Back pain