BioElectronics Corporation announced the results and publication of a study investigating the efficacy of its FDA-cleared pulsed-shortwave-therapy (PSWT) device in initiating a systemic anti-inflammatory response to improve functionality of canines diagnosed with osteoarthritis. 96% of the treatment group showed either increased passive range of motion, improved behavioral changes, or both compared to 4% for the placebo group. A randomized, blinded, placebo-controlled 14-day study of 60 dogs having prior veterinary-diagnosis OA in at least one limb joint.

Two outcomes measuring the dog's quality of life were assessed: subjectively determined changes in eight behaviors associated with discomfort, and objectively determined changes in passive range of motion (PROM). BioElectronics' Model 088 device was secured near the cervical region of the dog's spine. PROM measures were taken at baseline and day 14.

Behavioral measures were taken daily. Forty-nine animals completed the study. No negative side effects were reported.

Average subjective discomfort scores for the treatment group (N=26) were reduced from 4.26 to 2.31 (45%) compared to no improvement in the placebo group (N=23) over the study period. Average PROM scores increased by 5.51 (4.59--6.23) degrees relative to the placebo group. Most changes occurred within the first 8 days of treatment.

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis in dogs and is the most common source of chronic pain in older dogs. This is due to the constant wearing away of the cartilage from dogs running, jumping, and other continuous exercise. The prevalence of osteoarthritis can be as high as 20% in dogs more than a year old, with middle-aged and older dogs being at higher risk.

dogs that are diagnosed with arthritis tend to be lethargic, have difficulty moving from a sitting or lying position, cracking joints, stiffness, muscle wastage, and visible pain. Current treatment options for arthritis are typically NSAIDs given alone or in combination with other disease-modifying agents. In recent years, chronic use of NSAIDs has been linked to numerous side effects, including gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, and renal and hepatic dysfunction.

Anti-inflammatory drugs such aspirin and ibuprofen may also result in side effects, such as GI bleeding. BioElectronics Model 088 applied at the cervical spine level, may have the potential to significantly improve the quality of life for dogs and other small domestic animals with OA. Armed with these published results, BioElectronics Corporation will pursue appropriately qualified distribution partners to market and sell its unique pulsed shortwave device into the veterinary medicine market.