Shockwave Therapy for Dogs in Bellevue, WA
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to promote healing, reduce pain, and improve mobility. At Animal Wellness and Rehab Center, we use shockwave therapy for dogs with arthritis, tendonitis, ligament injuries, and slow-healing fractures. By increasing blood flow, reducing inflammation, and stimulating tissue regeneration, shockwave therapy harnesses the body’s natural healing mechanisms, often in just a few sessions and without surgery.
How Shockwave Therapy Works
During treatment, a handheld device delivers focused acoustic pressure waves into the injured tissue. These waves trigger a healing response that encourages new blood vessel formation, breaks down scar tissue, and stimulates the repair of tendons, ligaments, and bone. Many pets experience noticeable pain relief that can last for weeks or months after a series of treatments.
Conditions Treated With Shockwave Therapy
- Osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Tendon and ligament injuries, including partial cruciate tears
- Tendonitis and bursitis
- Non-healing or slow-healing fractures
- Back pain and chronic muscle pain
- Wound healing and scar tissue
What to Expect During Treatment
Sessions are quick, usually lasting just a few minutes per treatment area. Some pets receive mild sedation for comfort, as the sound waves can feel unusual. Most dogs need about three treatments spaced a week or two apart, with occasional maintenance sessions for chronic conditions. Shockwave therapy works well alongside laser therapy, acupuncture, and rehabilitation therapy as part of a complete pain management plan, and it can support recovery after orthopedic surgery.
Shockwave Therapy FAQs
What is shockwave therapy for dogs?
Shockwave therapy uses high-energy sound waves to reduce pain and inflammation and stimulate healing in bones, tendons, ligaments, and muscles.
What conditions can shockwave therapy treat?
It is commonly used for arthritis, hip and elbow dysplasia, tendon and ligament injuries, tendonitis, back pain, and slow-healing fractures.
Is shockwave therapy painful?
Most dogs tolerate treatment well. Some feel mild discomfort, so light sedation may be used to keep your pet relaxed.
How many shockwave sessions will my dog need?
Most dogs receive about three sessions spaced one to two weeks apart, with maintenance treatments for chronic conditions as needed.
How soon will I see results?
Many pet owners notice improved comfort and mobility within days of the first treatment, with continued improvement over the following weeks.
Can shockwave therapy replace surgery?
For some conditions, shockwave therapy can help avoid or delay surgery. For others, it is used to support healing after surgery.
Help Your Dog Move Comfortably Again
Find out if shockwave therapy is right for your pet. Call Animal Wellness and Rehab Center at (425) 455-8900 or request an appointment online.