
Dr. Sara Lam
Lead Veterinarian
BVSc (Sydney), CCRT, CVA
Veterinary oversight for every rehabilitation plan — ensuring safe, clinically appropriate care for your pet.

This is exactly where shockwave therapy excels. ESWT works at the cellular level — it doesn’t just mask pain, it restarts the biological healing process. The high-energy pressure waves stimulate your dog’s body to grow new blood vessels, produce growth factors, and remodel damaged tissue. Conditions that have been “stuck” for months often start improving within weeks.
Non-invasive. Drug-free. No general anaesthesia. 5–15 minutes per treatment site. And for many dogs, it’s the breakthrough that changes everything.
Five biological mechanisms — this is real medicine, not vibration therapy
Neovascularisation
Shockwaves stimulate the release of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and other angiogenic factors, triggering the formation of new blood vessels in the treated area. This improved blood supply delivers more oxygen and nutrients to damaged tissue — essential for tendons and ligaments that naturally have poor blood supply and heal slowly. Neovascularisation is one of the most important mechanisms, as it addresses the root cause of delayed healing in many chronic conditions.
Pain Reduction (Gate Control)
ESWT reduces pain through multiple pathways: it hyperstimulates nerve endings (overriding pain signals via the gate control mechanism), reduces substance P (a key pain neurotransmitter) in the treated area, and triggers endorphin release. The analgesic effect is often immediate and lasts well beyond the treatment session. With repeated treatments, the pain reduction becomes longer-lasting as the underlying tissue damage actually repairs — not just pain masking, but genuine healing.
Tissue Regeneration & Collagen Remodelling
The mechanical forces produced by shockwaves stimulate fibroblasts (cells that produce collagen) and osteoblasts (bone-forming cells). In damaged tendons, ESWT promotes the breakdown of disorganised scar tissue and its replacement with properly aligned collagen fibres — restoring the tendon's mechanical properties. In bone, it stimulates new bone formation. This remodelling process is why improvements continue for weeks after the treatment course ends.
Anti-Inflammatory Effect
ESWT modulates the inflammatory response by influencing cytokine production — reducing pro-inflammatory markers (IL-1, TNF-α) and increasing anti-inflammatory mediators (IL-10). It also stimulates nitric oxide (NO) release, causing vasodilation, improved metabolic activity, and reduced tissue swelling. This is particularly valuable for chronic inflammatory conditions like osteoarthritis, where persistent low-grade inflammation drives ongoing joint deterioration.
Cavitation Effect
When shockwaves pass through tissue, they create microscopic gas bubbles (cavitation) that collapse rapidly, generating localised mechanical forces. This cavitation effect is particularly useful for breaking down calcified deposits in chronic tendinopathies and disrupting fibrotic scar tissue. In non-union fractures, the micro-mechanical forces stimulate the periosteum (bone membrane) and restart the bone healing cascade.
Two types of shockwave, two different applications — understanding matters
Focused ESWT
High-pressure, pinpoint precision
Focused ESWT
High-pressure, pinpoint precision
At RehabVet, we select the appropriate shockwave type based on your dog's specific condition and treatment goals — not based on which machine we happen to own. The condition dictates the tool, not the other way around.
Quick, non-invasive, and usually well-tolerated — here’s the full walkthrough
Assessment & Preparation
Your therapist examines the treatment area — palpating for the precise location of pain, swelling, or tissue damage. The area may be clipped (if fur is thick) to ensure good acoustic coupling. Ultrasound gel is applied to create an air-free contact surface between the applicator and your dog's skin — air gaps would scatter the shockwaves and reduce effectiveness.
Treatment Delivery
The shockwave applicator is placed firmly against the skin and treatment begins. You'll hear a rhythmic clicking or popping sound as the shockwaves are generated. Treatment starts at lower energy levels and gradually increases to the therapeutic dose. The applicator is moved methodically across the treatment area to cover the entire target zone. Each site receives 500–2,000 pulses depending on the condition, at frequencies of 1–15 Hz.
Monitoring & Adjustment
Throughout treatment, your therapist watches your dog's body language — ear position, muscle tension, weight shifting, facial expression. If your dog shows discomfort, energy is reduced or the applicator is repositioned. Most dogs settle within the first 30–60 seconds as the area begins to desensitise. The total treatment time is typically 5–15 minutes per site.
Post-Treatment & Next Steps
After treatment, mild redness at the site is normal and expected — it indicates increased blood flow (the treatment is working). Your dog may be slightly tender for 24–48 hours. Light activity is fine; avoid intense exercise for 48 hours post-treatment. Improvement is often noticeable within days, with cumulative benefits building over the treatment course. Your next session is typically scheduled 1–2 weeks later.
Particularly effective for chronic conditions that have plateaued on other treatments
Osteoarthritis
The most common application of ESWT. Shockwaves reduce joint pain, stimulate cartilage metabolism, and promote new blood vessel growth in periarticular tissues. Particularly effective for hip, elbow, stifle (knee), and shoulder arthritis. Dogs with chronic arthritis that plateaus on medication alone often show renewed improvement with ESWT — reduced limping, increased activity, and better quality of life.
Hip & Elbow Dysplasia
Dysplastic joints develop secondary arthritis and chronic soft tissue inflammation. ESWT targets the pain and inflammation at the joint capsule, surrounding tendons, and muscle attachments. For dogs managed conservatively (without surgery), ESWT provides pain relief and slows degenerative changes. For post-surgical dysplasia patients, it accelerates healing and reduces scar tissue formation.
Cruciate Ligament Injury
For partial cruciate tears being managed conservatively, ESWT stimulates tissue repair and strengthens the remaining ligament fibres — potentially avoiding or delaying surgery. Post-TPLO or TTA surgery, ESWT accelerates bone healing at the osteotomy site, reduces periarticular fibrosis, and speeds return to function. The anti-inflammatory effect also reduces the chronic synovitis (joint inflammation) that accompanies cruciate disease.
Tendinopathies
Supraspinatus tendinopathy, biceps tenosynovitis, Achilles tendinopathy, and iliopsoas strain respond exceptionally well to ESWT. Shockwaves break down calcified deposits in chronic tendons, stimulate collagen remodelling (replacing disorganised scar tissue with aligned, functional tendon fibres), and restart the healing cascade in tendons that have become "stuck" in chronic inflammation.
Chronic Spinal Conditions
Spondylosis deformans, lumbosacral disease, and chronic IVDD benefit from ESWT's analgesic and tissue-remodelling effects. Shockwaves reduce paraspinal muscle spasm, decrease pain at bridging osteophytes, and improve mobility in dogs with stiff, painful spines. Often used alongside manual therapy and acupuncture for comprehensive spinal management.
Delayed & Non-Union Fractures
When fractures fail to heal within the expected timeframe, ESWT can restart the bone healing process. The shockwaves stimulate osteoblast activity (bone-forming cells), promote new blood vessel growth at the fracture site, and trigger the release of growth factors essential for bone repair. This can potentially avoid revision surgery in some cases.
Muscle Contractures & Trigger Points
Chronic muscle contractures restrict range of motion and cause compensatory gait changes. ESWT breaks down fibrotic tissue within the muscle, improves blood flow, and reduces pain — allowing the muscle to return to its normal length and function. For trigger points (taut bands of painful muscle), shockwaves provide rapid relief that complements manual therapy.
Patellar Luxation (Supporting Structures)
While ESWT cannot correct the anatomical defect causing patellar luxation, it can treat the secondary soft tissue changes — inflamed joint capsule, strained medial or lateral retinaculum, and associated muscle pain. Post-surgical patellar luxation patients benefit from ESWT to reduce scar tissue and accelerate healing of the reconstructed soft tissues.
Why shockwave when there are other options?
Factor NSAIDs / Medication Surgery Shockwave (ESWT) Mechanism Masks pain, reduces inflammation Physically repairs/replaces structures Stimulates natural healing + pain relief Invasiveness Non-invasive (oral) Invasive (general anaesthesia) Non-invasive (no anaesthesia) Recovery time None 6–16 weeks restricted activity None (48h light activity) Long-term organ risk Liver/kidney with prolonged use Low (one-time event) None known Addresses root cause No — symptom management Yes — structural repair Yes — cellular-level healing Cost (typical) $30–$80/month ongoing $3,000–$8,000+ one-time $120–$200 × 3–6 sessions Best when Mild–moderate ongoing pain Structural failure requiring repair Chronic conditions plateauing on medication
ESWT is not a replacement for surgery when surgery is genuinely needed. It’s a powerful tool for conditions where conservative management has plateaued and surgery isn’t indicated — or as an adjunct to either medication or post-surgical recovery.
Most effective when combined — and at RehabVet, everything is under one roof
Muscle Contractures & Trigger Points
Chronic muscle contractures restrict range of motion and cause compensatory gait changes. ESWT breaks down fibrotic tissue within the muscle, improves blood flow, and reduces pain — allowing muscle to return to normal length and function. For trigger points (taut bands of painful muscle), shockwaves provide rapid relief complementing manual therapy.
Patellar Luxation (Supporting Structures)
While ESWT cannot correct the anatomical defect, it treats the secondary soft tissue changes — inflamed joint capsule, strained retinaculum, and associated muscle pain. Post-surgical patellar luxation patients benefit from ESWT to reduce scar tissue and accelerate healing of reconstructed soft tissues.
Chronic Spinal Conditions
Spondylosis deformans, lumbosacral disease, and chronic IVDD benefit from ESWT's analgesic and tissue-remodelling effects. Shockwaves reduce paraspinal muscle spasm, decrease pain at bridging osteophytes, and improve mobility in dogs with stiff, painful spines. Often combined with manual therapy and acupuncture.
Delayed & Non-Union Fractures
When fractures fail to heal within the expected timeframe, ESWT can restart the bone healing process. Shockwaves stimulate osteoblast activity, promote new blood vessel growth at the fracture site, and trigger release of growth factors essential for bone repair — potentially avoiding revision surgery.
Transparent pricing — no one else publishes this
ESWT Session Per treatment site, 5–15 min
$120 – $200
Combined Session ESWT + manual/laser/electro
$180 – $300
An initial rehabilitation assessment is required for new patients. Package rates available for multi-session treatment plans. Contact us for a personalised quote.
Ready to take the next step?
Our rehabilitation team will assess your pet and build a personalised care plan.
Experience, expertise, and every modality under one roof
Condition-first approach — not machine-first
Some clinics lead with their equipment brand. We lead with your dog's diagnosis. The condition determines which shockwave type, energy level, pulse count, and treatment frequency is appropriate. Equipment is a tool — clinical expertise is what makes it work.
Comprehensive rehabilitation, not standalone treatment
ESWT works best as part of a multimodal programme. At RehabVet, your dog can receive shockwave therapy alongside manual therapy, laser therapy, electrotherapy, acupuncture, hydrotherapy, and HBOT — all coordinated by one team in one visit. No referrals between clinics. One plan, one team, integrated care.
Led by Dr. Sara Lam — veterinarian and rehabilitation specialist
Every treatment protocol is designed or supervised by Dr. Sara, who combines veterinary medical knowledge with rehabilitation expertise. This matters because shockwave therapy has contraindications (tumours, growth plates, infections) that require veterinary assessment, not just therapist training.
Shockwave for dogs AND cats
Many clinics focus exclusively on canine patients. RehabVet has experience treating cats with ESWT — adapting energy levels, applicator size, and handling protocols for feline anatomy and temperament. If your cat has arthritis or a chronic musculoskeletal condition, ESWT may be appropriate.
229 verified 5-star Google reviews
Real outcomes from real pet owners across all rehabilitation modalities. Our reviews reflect the quality of clinical assessment, treatment planning, and hands-on care — not just the equipment we use.
Qualified rehabilitation specialists, led by Dr. Sara Lam

Lead Veterinarian
BVSc (Sydney), CCRT, CVA
Veterinary oversight for every rehabilitation plan — ensuring safe, clinically appropriate care for your pet.

Senior Therapist

Therapist

Hydrotherapist

Hydrotherapist

Client Relations, Marketing & Business Development Manager
Everything Singapore pet owners want to know about ESWT
My family and I would like to thank RehabVet team for the care, dedication, and professionalism shown to our beloved Border Collie, Patches. During his rehabilitation journey, the therapists and staff were always patient, compassionate, and willing to answer our questions. It was evident that they genuinely cared about his well-being and worked hard to help him maintain the best quality of life possible.
Clean environment and knowledgeable people who loves pets. Highly recommended.
Great place for rehab and therapist
The only place that Aiko loves so wholeheartedly, greeting all staffs cheerfully the moment she enters and resting on their thighs after hydrotherapy so peacefully. The trust and demure of your dog tells it all. No bias or pre-conceived perceptions. We were surprised that the first five hydrotherapy sessions have helped to strengthen her hips and improve her level of energy. Sean is just the consummate professional!
This clinic combines effective treatment, compassionate handling, and up-to-date evidence-based rehabilitation tools. My dog has experienced very visible improvement after just a few sessions with them. Very effective. Many pet owners I spoke to at the clinic also gives it a thumbs up. They have a team of well trained and very caring professionals. I have not seen any dogs that are not comfortable with them over here. 👍🏻
We visited Rehabvet as Bruno was having some mobility issues with his hind legs. We had an excellent experience. They structured a massage / exercise / hydro schedule that worked wonders. Bruno is feeling much better now.
This is the best rehab clinic for my dog.
We've been bringing Kuma to RehabVet for physiotherapy and the experience has been outstanding. The team truly cares for every fur patient, and you can feel the warmth and dedication the moment you walk in. A special thank you to Hazel, Kuma's therapist, who is incredibly patient, attentive, and knowledgeable. She not only conducts the sessions with great care but also provides practical advice for us to continue strengthening Kuma's muscles at home and the results really show. Thank you as well to Dr. Sara, Xan, and the entire RehabVet team for the love and professionalism you show to every pet. If your furkid needs rehabilitation or physiotherapy, RehabVet is truly a place you can trust.
Had a very positive experience at the rehab vet. The entire team was professional, gentle, and reassuring throughout the session. Dr Sara was especially wonderful — knowledgeable, patient, and took the time to explain everything clearly without rushing. You can tell she genuinely cares about the animals and their recovery. The facility has also just been renovated and is very clean, modern, and calm, making it a comfortable and conducive environment for both pets and owners. Highly recommended.
We're truly grateful to Dr. Sara, the entire RehabVet team, and especially Xan, who has been exceptionally detailed and patient. The whole team has shown such genuine care throughout Milo's recovery journey. Milo was diagnosed with IVDD Grade 3 in late June 2025. Although he hasn't fully recovered yet, we've seen significant improvement over the past 3.5 months with pain relief treatments, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, acupuncture, and regular exercise sessions. We believe that slowly but surely, Milo will make a full recovery. Never give up!
Haru has been going to rehabvet since Nov 2025 to manage his mobility caused by luxating patellar and hip dysplasia. Thus far, we witnessed huge improvements thru several methods of rehabilitation such as ultrasound/laser therapy, land exercises and hydrotherapy! Aside from the treatments, what made us continue with them is the hospitality of the staff! They are always so welcoming and you could feel the warmth everytime you step into the clinic! Also, they treat your furkid with love and respect. Highly recommended.
I can't recommend RehabVet highly enough! My Happy, a pomeranian with patella luxation grade 3 on her left hind leg and hip dysplasia, has made incredible progress since starting physiotherapy here. The team is so knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely caring. All the therapists were fantastic and tailored the sessions perfectly to Happy's needs. The facilities are clean and well-equipped, and my dog always seemed comfortable and even enjoyed their sessions. If your furry friend needs some extra support, look no further than RehabVet!
We've been taking our dog to Rehab Vet Singapore for about 6–7 years, mainly for EMF therapy, water treadmill sessions, and joint and muscle supplements. After her hip surgery, she needed a comprehensive recovery plan, and the team here has provided just that and more. Their treatments have helped her regain strength and mobility, and the long-term maintenance has been invaluable in keeping her active and comfortable. The staff is knowledgeable, caring, and always focused on her needs. We truly appreciate the dedication they've shown over the years – highly recommend!
Went to RehabVet for a second opinion on a serious limp my husky had developed. They were exceptionally knowledgeable, gave practical advice and were very generous with their time. We moved forward with treatment and the non invasive options they gave have made him much more comfortable and the future is promising. From the first time I reached out via whatsapp they gave clear helpful advice, follow up on treatment, pictures, liaised with pet transportation and more. A really amazing full service experience. Thank you very much.
As a fur mummy, finding people who genuinely care for and love our babies is so important. I've found exactly that here, especially with Judette, Xan, Noelle, and Joyce. My babies, Barley (17yo cat) and Lexi (9yo dog), come in for pain management and rehab sessions, and I'm always completely comfortable with how they're treated. The team is incredibly patient, gentle, and kind, and it shows in the way they handle my pets. So grateful to have found a rehab centre I truly trust. Highly recommended.
My Shih Tzu, August, has osteoarthritis and he was unable to walk. We took him to RehabVet Clinic after reading good reviews about it on Google. Since November 2023, he has been having therapy here and has shown improvement in his mobility under the tender loving care from Dr Sara Lam and the staff members, with special mention and appreciation to Angeline, Joyce, Hui Tze and Shaun. My Puppy King will continue his treatment here as we have trust in this lovely team. Thank you!
Bubble has been with Rehab Vet for years as he grows older and manages his luxating patella. I am truly grateful to Doc Sara, Xan, Sean, Joyce, and the entire rehab team for always taking such wonderful care of Bubble and watching over him during every session. Bubble came from a condition whereby he couldn't even walk, he was paralysed. But really thankful to rehab vet that made the impossible, became possible. Thank you Doc Sara & all Rehab Team
Great team! Brought my dog Bunny in for a consultation because her luxating patella was getting worse. Bunny is an anxious dog so I expected her to be a handful during the consult but she was very calm in the therapists' presence! Shout out to Xan and Noelle for helping her feel at ease in a foreign place. I love the clinic's interior as well, the warm lights and pastel colours are very welcoming for both me and Bunny :)
Rehabvet was recommended to us by our vet because our dog dislocated her hip when she was a puppy. We've been going to Rehabvet for several years now and their standard of care has been consistently high throughout. Special shoutout to Sean for always trying his best to make her visits as comfortable as possible 👍 (She gets easily anxious)!!
Having been to several vets and rehabs with my senior Shih Tzu, my experience at RehabVet has been the best. My only regret was not bringing him here sooner when his issues first came up! My very anxious 15 year old kiddo was diagnosed with IVDD and is unable to move all his limbs voluntarily at all times. After the initial testing and diagnosis by Dr. Sara, he has had a few trips to the Hyperbaric O2 Therapy, Laser Therapy, and Electrical Stimulation with massages. Now, I can tell that he is in less pain and is also more comfortable and less anxious. I would highly recommend RehabVet to anyone thinking about it!
I can't thank Xan and his team at RehabVet enough for the incredible care they've given my dog. After a sudden incident where my dog started dragging both hind legs, the vet diagnosed him with IVDD stage 2. I decided to try physio at RehabVet, and it was the best decision I could have made. Within just 2-3 sessions, my dog's hind legs showed significant improvement—they were no longer wobbly. Now, after 7-8 sessions, he's regained his mobility and is even jumping around at home again. Xan's patience and dedication made all the difference. I highly recommend RehabVet to anyone in need of compassionate, effective care for their pet.
Always a pleasant experience here at RehabVet- clean area, calm ambience and super patient therapists. Staff are very willing to share tips on home care massages and explain in detail how our pups muscles work, gait observation and strength training for them!
Sean is an incredibly caring and skilled rehab therapist. He's gentle, patient, and truly treats every dog like his own. We saw clear improvement in our dog's mobility, and sessions are always handled with professionalism and compassion. Highly recommend!
Have a wonderful experience with the team at Rehab Vet. The staff are warm, friendly, and always patient in answering our enquiries. Their care and professionalism make every visit reassuring.
My senior dog has been with rehabvet since Sept 2025 after her leg surgery. We're happy to see improvement! Everyone is helpful and friendly here. Thanks rehabvet team!
Newly renovated place, more conducive for therapy sessions. Therapists are experienced in handling older dogs. Have been sending my 18 year old dog for therapy for more than a year.
The therapists are patient and helped improved my dog's arthritis condition. They taught us how to massage his joints and told us to use heat therapy.
My dog has been coming to rehabs for hips dysplasia at a young age of 2 years old & now is 10 years old & condition did not detoriate - glad we started early.
Mochi enjoys his physio sessions with Rehabvet. His LP grade reduced from 3 to 2 with regular weekly sessions. The therapists are friendly and always make sure the sessions intensity are suitable for him.
We've sent both our dogs to RehabVet for some years now. Thanks to the staff for always being so welcoming and caring. Butter loves his swim here.