Page 593 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

appropriately bandaged.

Cold can be applied in several ways.
VetBooks.ir COLD HOSING

This is done for 20 minutes, a minimum of 3 times a day.

ICED WATER

The affected limb is immersed in a bucket of cold water with added ice. This is usually done
for 15 minutes, 3 times a day. Standing a horse is a stream is an effective way of providing

cold treatment if there is a suitable one nearby. Special boots are available for cold water
treatment of lower limb injuries. Some can be attached to refrigeration units to control the

temperature of the circulating water (see Figure 7.4). Cold salt water spas are popular in
competition yards to aid recovery after fast work in addition to treatment of injuries.

CRUSHED ICE, FROZEN PEAS

These can be applied to the injured area over a thin layer of material such as a tea towel.
Frozen substances must not be placed in direct contact with the skin or ice scald may occur.

These are left on for up to 30 minutes.

COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE COLD PACKS AND BANDAGES

These can be stored ready for use in the freezer. They stay cold for approximately 15
minutes.

Heat treatment

Heat treatment is often used in conjunction with massage and controlled exercise. It should
not be used within the first 24–48 hours after an injury occurs as it may provoke further

haemorrhage.

Heat increases the blood supply to the damaged tissue. This provides increased oxygen
and more white blood cells to clear up the debris. The improved blood and lymph flow

promote resorption of blood and fluid from the injured area. The warmth helps to relieve
muscle spasm and reduce the pain, making the horse more comfortable and relaxed. It also

improves the horse’s range of motion.

Superficial heat does not penetrate far beneath the skin. It can be applied by:
• infra-red lamps (Figure 13.3)