{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Shockwave Therapy in Veterinary Rehabilitation.
{Author}: Medina C;
{Journal}: Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract
{Volume}: 53
{Issue}: 4
{Year}: Jul 2023 22
{Factor}: 2.148
{DOI}: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2023.02.009
{Abstract}: Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a noninvasive treatment that involves the transcutaneous delivery of high-energy sound waves into tissue creating therapeutic effects. Shockwaves are nonlinear, high-pressure, high-velocity acoustic waves characterized by low tensile amplitude, short rise time to peak pressure, and a short duration (less than 10 milliseconds). ESWT has been shown to increase the expression of cytokines and growth factors leading to decreased inflammation, neovascularization, and cellular proliferation; activation of osteogenesis by osteoblast differentiation and then by increased proliferation; inhibition of cartilage degeneration and rebuilding of subchondral bone; and increased serotonin in the dorsal horn and descending inhibition of pain signals. Musculoskeletal conditions that can benefit from ESWT include osteoarthritis, tendinopathies, fracture/bone healing, and wound healing.