Shockwave Therapy for Horses: A Comprehensive Approach to Healing
- Anushka von Oppen
- Oct 1
- 2 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Shockwave therapy is a safe, non-invasive treatment that supports healing and reduces pain in musculoskeletal conditions. At Core Equine Biomechanics, we use shockwave therapy for horses as part of our comprehensive approach to lameness, rehabilitation, and performance care. Based in Melbourne, we integrate this therapy with diagnostics, chiropractic treatment, and rehabilitation planning to keep horses comfortable and performing at their best.
How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?
Shockwave therapy delivers high-energy acoustic waves into targeted tissues. The radial pressure waves produced spread out from the applicator head, stimulating a biological response in the underlying tissue.
This treatment increases circulation, promotes collagen production, reduces pain sensitivity, and encourages healing in areas where recovery is often slow, such as tendons, ligaments, and joints.
When Is Shockwave Recommended?
Shockwave therapy is commonly used in horses with:
Tendon or ligament injuries
Arthritis and joint discomfort
Back pain or kissing spines
Chronic muscle soreness or poor performance
Slow-healing or recurrent lameness
Because every case is different, shockwave is often combined with chiropractic assessment, gait analysis, or imaging to ensure treatment is targeted and effective.
Most horses are treated every 2–3 weeks for a short course of 3-5 sessions. Some require only a few treatments, while others benefit from periodic maintenance to remain comfortable in training or competition. Sessions are quick, performed on-site, and generally well tolerated.
Part of a Complete Care Plan
At Core Equine, shockwave therapy is rarely used in isolation. We combine it with:
Chiropractic treatment (see our Chiropractic Services)
Rehabilitation planning tailored to each horse
This integrated approach ensures that we treat not only the symptoms but also the underlying cause of discomfort.
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy offers numerous benefits for equine health. It can significantly reduce recovery time for injuries. The therapy enhances blood flow, which is crucial for healing. Additionally, it helps to break down scar tissue, improving mobility and flexibility.
Another advantage is the non-invasive nature of the treatment. Unlike surgeries, shockwave therapy does not require lengthy recovery periods. Horses can often return to their normal activities shortly after treatment.
The Treatment Process
The shockwave therapy process is straightforward. Initially, a thorough assessment is conducted to determine the specific needs of the horse. This may include diagnostic imaging or gait analysis.
Once the treatment plan is established, the shockwave device is applied to the affected area. The procedure typically lasts about 15-30 minutes. Most horses tolerate the treatment well, and many show immediate signs of relief.
After the session, owners are often given guidelines for post-treatment care. This may include rest periods and gradual reintroduction to exercise.
Book Your Horse's Shockwave Therapy Today
If your horse is struggling with lameness, back pain, or a slow-healing injury, shockwave therapy may provide the support they need.
Book an appointment with Core Equine Biomechanics to discuss whether shockwave is the right option for your horse. As an experienced horse vet in Melbourne, we combine shockwave therapy with advanced lameness diagnostics and chiropractic care to help horses stay sound, comfortable, and performing at their best.
Comments