For dog owners, hip dysplasia is a common condition that occurs. Although hip dysplasia is more common for large dogs such as Great Danes, Labradors, and St. Bernards, it can happen to small dogs as well such as bulldogs, poodles, Pomeranians, and Yorkshire Terriers.

Hip dysplasia in dogs occurs when the ball and socket of the hip joint grind against each other causing deterioration, loss of joint function, and sometimes arthritis.

Genetics is usually the main cause of hip dysplasia. However, factors such as excessive growth rate, types of exercise, weight, and nutrition also contribute to the increased likelihood of hip dysplasia, especially for larger breeds.

For dogs with hip dysplasia, shockwave therapy is a treatment method that offers long-term results.

How Does Shockwave Therapy Treat Hip Dysplasia in Dogs?

Shockwave therapy uses pressure and trigger points for pain control and to promote bone healing. The high-energy sound waves stimulate the cells and releases healing growth factors that reduce inflammation, decrease swelling, and increase blood flow to heal the wounds.

It’s a non-invasive way for dogs to receive therapy without causing them pain during or after the treatment process. This allows dogs to be treated comfortably with minimal post-treatment side effects.

Scientific Evidence

In a study published on The Veterinary Record, 24 dogs were studied on the effectiveness of shockwave therapy on canine hip osteoarthritis, which develops because of hip dysplasia.

The dogs were separated into the treatment group receiving shockwave therapy, and the control group left untreated. The study used a treadmill to test the hindlimb function before receiving treatment, four weeks after the last treatment, and three to six months after treatment.

Results showed the treated dogs had significantly improved symmetry in forces exerted by the right and left hindlegs. There were also significant improvements in the peak vertical force of the hindlegs three months after treatment which indicates improved leg strength.

Another study by a team of researchers at the School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science in Brazil followed 30 dogs with arthritis in both hips that underwent three weekly shockwave therapy sessions over sixteen days.

The dogs were evaluated on symmetry, peak vertical force, and vertical impulse after treatment and at the one-month, two-month, and three-month marks.

According to the findings, all dogs treated with shockwave therapy showed significant improvements in all three measures. In addition, the visual analog scale scores indicated improvement in the dogs’ pain, lameness, and ability to perform physical activities.

If you are trying to treat canine patients with hip dysplasia, shockwave therapy is a proven effective method of alleviating pain and increasing body function. To learn more or request a demo, contact us by calling 1 (888) 741-SHOC(7462) or visiting https://shockwavecanada.com/.