Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses targeted soundwaves to support healing, reduce pain, and improve tissue quality. It is commonly used for musculoskeletal conditions, particularly where healing has been slow or pain has become chronic.
At Holistic Vet Care, shockwave therapy is performed by our fully qualified vets and is used as part of an individualised, holistic treatment plan tailored to your pet’s needs.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether shockwave therapy may be appropriate for your pet.
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy
Book your free introductory consult
Not sure if we can help? Book a free 15min introductory consult with one of our holistic vets!
It’s a chance to get to know us, ask questions, and decide if you want to use our services with zero obligation.
Introductory consults can be in person or via Teams. Terms and Conditions apply.
Shockwave therapy as part of a holistic approach
At Holistic Vet Care, shockwave therapy is provided by fully qualified veterinary surgeons who have undertaken additional training in its safe and effective use.
We often use shockwave therapy as part of a wider holistic treatment plan, rather thanas a standalone treatment. By combining shockwave therapy with approaches such as acupuncture, laser therapy, herbal medicine, and lifestyle support, we aim to encourage both short-term comfort and longer-term, sustained improvement.
In the past, shockwave therapy often required sedation. However, with the advanced equipment we use and the way treatments are delivered, sedation is not required. Treatments are carefully adapted to each individual pet, and many find the experience calming and soothing.
Is shockwave therapy suitable for my pet?
Shockwave therapy is a gentle, soothing, non-invasive treatment that does not usually require sedation, making it a suitable option for many pets. However, as with any therapeutic intervention, there are certain situations where shockwave therapy may not be appropriate, or where additional caution is required.
Shockwave therapy may not be advised in the following circumstances:
- Cancer patients – we avoid using shockwave therapy near tumours as it may increase circulation, which could potentially stimulate tumour growth.
- Pregnant animals – shockwave therapy is avoided during pregnancy due to limited research into its effects on developing foetuses.
- Active infections or open wounds at the treatment site – shockwave therapy is not applied over infected or damaged skin.
- Growth plates in young animals – care is taken to avoid growth plates, as shockwave therapy may affect developing tissues.
- Bleeding disorders or anticoagulant use – shockwave therapy can increase local blood flow, so additional caution is required.
Before recommending shockwave therapy, our qualified vets will always carry out a thorough assessment of your pet’s medical history, current condition, and overall wellbeing. This allows us to determine whether shockwave therapy is appropriate and how it may be safely incorporated into your pet’s individual treatment plan.
If you’re unsure whether shockwave therapy is right for your pet, we’re always happy to discuss their needs and answer any questions you may have.
What can shockwave therapy help with?
Shockwave therapy is most used to support conditions involving chronic pain, soft tissue injury, or areas where healing has been slow or incomplete. There is published research supporting its use in a variety of musculoskeletal conditions.
Conditions where shockwave therapy may be used include the following. Please be advised that this list is not exhaustive. If your pet’s ailment has not been listed, it is still likely that we can help. Please do not hesitate to reach out!
How much does shockwave therapy cost?
Shockwave therapy at Holistic Vet Care is delivered alongside laser therapy and costs £145.66 for a 40-minute session.
Claiming insurance
Many pet insurance providers now offer cover for complementary and holistic therapies, including herbal medicine, acupuncture, and laser therapy. However, we recommend checking what is included in your plan as cover varies between policies. Please bear in mind that all consultations, treatments, and herbal prescriptions must be paid for at the time. We will then help you claim back from your insurer.
Frequently asked questions
What is shockwave therapy?
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) was first used for the treatment of orthopaedic disorders in the mid-1990s. Since then, it has become a standard procedure in pain therapy for humans, horses and small animals to treat disorders affecting muscles, joints, and bones.
The shockwaves are audible, low energy, high pressure sound waves that are passed through the skin to the affected area.
How does shockwave therapy work?
- Reducing pain – by gently desensitising nerve endings, shockwave therapy can help provide rapid pain relief for some pets.
- Supporting longer-term healing – shockwave therapy encourages the body’s own repair processes by delivering soundwaves to the tissues. This prompts controlled mechanical stimulation, increased blood circulation, and the release of growth factors helping to support healing and promote a more sustained response over time.
- Improving tissue quality – it may help address areas of disorganised or thickened tissue and calcification, encouraging healthier tissue repair.
Can I claim through my insurance?
Most insurance companies will cover/contribute towards our services. However, we always advise checking with your insurance company regarding your individual policy.
Do I need a referral from my vets?
If you get in touch with us, we are more than happy to contact your primary vets to organise consent for treatment, if needed.
Get in touch
Where are we located?
Suite A, Blisworth Marina, Blisworth, Northampton, NN7 3FG.
We are located just outside of Blisworth, between Northampton and Towcester. Our clinic is at the Blisworth Marina, providing a peaceful, relaxing setting, with ample parking.
