As every equestrian knows, taking care of your horse is crucial in ensuring they perform to their best abilities. And while proper diet, exercise, and grooming are important, many owners are turning to alternative therapies to help their performance horses stay in peak condition. One such therapy is pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy, which has shown significant benefits for horses both before and after competition.
PEMF therapy involves the use of low-frequency electromagnetic fields to stimulate cells and tissues in the body, promoting healing and overall wellness. The therapy, first approved by the FDA for its abilities to promote bone healing after fractures, has been used for decades in human medicine, but it is now gaining traction in the equine world as well.
Benefits for Before Competition
PEMF therapy can be extremely beneficial for horses before an event, as it can help to prepare the horse’s body for the demands of competition by increasing circulation, oxygenation, and nutrient delivery to muscles, helping to reduce inflammation and promote overall health and healing. Additionally, it increases the production of ATP, which fuels the cells themselves, and helps reduce fatigue and lactic acid build up. This promotes increased muscular energy levels and improved performance.
It’s been noted that roughly 72 hours or the third day after receiving PEMF therapy seems to be the “peak” or optimal time following a session. It is recommended to try a session with your horse well in advance of a competition though, just to see how they respond, as it can be quite relaxing for some horses, and depending on the sport, may or may not work against them on competition day.
Additionally, PEMF therapy can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can be especially helpful for horses (and their riders!) that are prone to nervousness or performance anxiety. By helping to calm the mind and reduce muscle tension, PEMF therapy can improve focus and concentration, leading to a better performance overall.
Benefits After Competition
After a show or other strenuous activity, PEMF therapy can help to speed up the horse’s recovery time and reduce the risk of injury. The therapy can help to increase blood flow and oxygenation to damaged tissues, promoting healing and reducing inflammation. PEMF therapy can also help to reduce muscle soreness and stiffness, allowing the horse to recover more quickly and return to training or competition sooner.
Moreover, PEMF has been shown to help improve the immune system, which can be especially beneficial after an event where horses may be exposed to new pathogens or stressors. By boosting the natural immune response, PEMF can help protect the horse from illness or infection and keep them in optimal health.
Overall, PEMF therapy is a safe, non-invasive, and effective way to support the health and performance of our equine companions – before, after, or in-between – while helping them to feel their best.