 Yes. IRAP and Shockwave are both forms of regenerative medicine yet, they serve unique functions. IRAP blocks damaging proteins while Shockwave stimulates stem cells. Using them in conjunction can improve sport injury outcomes for horses.
IRAP is a protein derived from the horse’s blood and is injected into a damaged join. The therapy servers to block harmful and destructive inflammation proteins from binding to receptors. It effectively and naturally reduces inflammation, and its subsequent damage, by breaking the infinite loop of inflammation – joint damage – further inflammation.
Shockwave is a sudden burst of energy directed at damaged tissue. A hand-held trode is placed over the injury and delivers a series of focused pressure waves. The size, strength, and depth of the wave is adjustable, allowing the veterinarian to pinpoint the therapy directly to the damaged soft tissue. The treatment stimulates the release of growth factors that drive stem cells to damaged tissue, restoring integrity and function with minimal scar tissue.