Page 592 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

EXERCISE THERAPY

Controlled exercise is a very important part of the rehabilitation programme following an
VetBooks.ir injury. It is essential that the demands on the horse are increased very slowly to build up

strength and muscle tone before normal exercise is resumed. The programme will depend on
the nature of the injury and how long the horse has been off work. It should be designed to

develop suppleness and balance while gradually building up muscular strength. In the early
stages the horse is likely to benefit from exercise without the weight of a rider. He may have

become accustomed to moving in a certain way to alleviate pain and need help to restore the
normal movement pattern.

The following may be used for rehabilitation:
• mobilisation and core strengthening exercises

• horse walker

• water treadmill

• swimming pool (see Figure 8.7)

• cold water hydrotherapy unit
• training aids such as the Chambon, Pessoa or Equiband ®

• application of weights to a limb

• application of materials such as kinesiotape in a way that heightens sensation in

particular muscle groups and causes the horse to alter its gait, helping to re-establish a
normal movement pattern.

The use of all of these aids requires experience and an in-depth understanding of the goals of

treatment. Incorrect use has the potential to aggravate the existing injury or even create a new
problem. The rehabilitation programme should be drawn up following consultation between

the vet and the physiotherapist.

Some of these treatments are now discussed in more detail.

Cold treatment

Cold treatment is used for bruises and strains of tendons, muscles, joints and ligaments. It is
of maximum benefit immediately after the injury occurs and in the following 24–48 hours.
The low temperature causes constriction of the blood vessels which decreases the amount of

haemorrhage in the damaged tissue; it also helps to relieve pain. In order to minimize further
swelling when the cold treatment has finished, injuries to the lower limb should be