Video Library
Mobile 2 RPW Shockwave
Veterinary
Chattanooga’s Radial Pressure Wave technology is mobile.
​
The Mobile 2 RPW (Radial Pressure Wave) is compact and light enough to be easily carried while also delivering a host of features and benefits.
​
When there is need for a powerful, yet portable RPW device in the clinic or in the field, the Chattanooga Mobile 2 RPW is the ideal choice. A lightweight and compact design together with a quiet built-in compressor make it suitable for portable use. A user-friendly experience is at the heart of the Mobile 2 RPW's design. The simple, ergonomically laid out controls enable all of the key parameters to be easily changed. A clear, illuminated LED display removes ambiguity when monitoring pressure, frequency and number of pulses. Pulses can be initiated via a trigger mechanism on the handpiece.
What is shockwave therapy?
Shockwave therapy is a high-energy sound wave technology that generates sound waves outside of the body, offering a noninvasive treatment option of dogs experiencing lameness and pain. The high-energy sound waves – sometimes called pulses – travel through soft tissue at customized depths, reaching a specific treatment area. These waves trigger the body’s repair system. Different sized applicator heads (5mm and 20mm) allow shockwaves to penetrate to different depths and various energy settings allow for customization of application. In comparison to ultrasound or lasers, shockwaves result in a higher energy output and deeper penetration, which has been proven to reduce healing time, improve mobility, and relieve pain in as few as 1-3 treatments. Shockwave can be used instead of an increased NSAID dose, as part of a rehabilitation or routine postoperative program.
​
How does it work?
Shockwave therapy aids in healing by stimulating the body’s regeneration process. The waves work on a cellular level, releasing proteins that accelerate healing. Energy is released as a shockwave as tissue interfaces where the density of the tissue or impedance of the sound waves changes. Neovascularization takes place, leading to increased blood supply to the treated tissue, resulting in tissue regeneration in tendons, joints, and bone. Shockwave is noninvasive so dogs are able to receive treatment with minimal recovery time. While results may appear to be seen immediately, it takes time for the biological responses to take place.
Shockwave therapy is performed on an outpatient basis – treatment, recovery and discharge from the hospital can all be performed while you wait. An average treatment is relatively fast and easy, typically 5-10 minutes in duration. Dealing with only sound energy and deep tissue penetration, your pet will only require a short acting sedative. We do this to ensure optimal comfort and minimal distress. Preparation of the treatment area is minimal and requires clipping of the dog’s fur overlying the treatment area to make certain sound transmission is not disrupted by fur. A conductive gel is used with the applicator while it is gently moved over the treated area but will be removed immediately after treatment – no sticky mess goes home. It is important that dogs do not take part in strenuous or high-impact activity for a few days so their body may effectively heal. An additional treatment may be needed after 2-3 weeks, depending on the indication.
​
Shockwave is beneficial in the following applications:
Osteoarthritis
Joint injuries – hips, elbows, stifle (knee), and shoulder
Chronic back pain, lumbosacral disease
Non-union or delayed union fractures
Tendon/ligament injuries
Chronic soft tissue wounds
How is shockwave therapy different from laser therapy?
Shockwave uses sound energy where laser uses light energy
Shockwave is FDA-approved and is supported by more than 10 years of research in both veterinary and human medicine.
Shockwave creates a higher energy output and penetrates deeper than a laser can. Lasers are mostly beneficial for superficial indications that require a few millimeters in depth.
1-3 treatments provide long-term healing with shockwave whereas lasers require 10-15 treatments for any given injury. Healing with lasers has not been proven long-term.
There is no risk of burns with sound energy and no protective eyewear is required.
No adverse effects have been reported with shockwave therapy.