Page 595 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

and help break down existing ones. Fascia is a web of connective tissue that surrounds and

connects all the tissues of the body. When injury occurs, this tissue tightens and if left
VetBooks.ir untreated will restrict the flexibility, balance and performance of the equine athlete.
Myofascial release alleviates this; it works well with other physical therapies such as

chiropractic and acupuncture. Many horses enjoy these treatments – in addition to pain relief,
it helps them to relax.

Magnetic field therapy

There are two types of magnetic therapy available.

Static magnets are incorporated into boots, tendon wraps and blankets for the horse or
can be bandaged directly in place. These magnets vary in strength. They can be left on the

horse without constant supervision for up to 12 hours at a time.
Electromagnetic field therapy units produce low frequency pulsed magnetic fields.

These may be operated by batteries or require an electricity supply. The settings of the
instrument can be varied according to the condition being treated. The treatment times are

shorter but the horse must be supervised throughout the duration of the treatment.
The effects of magnetic fields on body tissues are not fully understood. Living tissues

generate electromagnetic fields around them. When tissues are injured, the normal electrical
charge across the cell membrane is disturbed and this disrupts cell metabolism. Applied

magnetic fields of the appropriate strength are able to influence the passage of chemical ions
through cell membranes and help to restore the normal electrical charge.

Electromagnetic field therapy has proved useful for:

• improving the circulation, which helps healing of soft tissues
• resorption of haematomas

• pain relief

• bone healing e.g. treatment of sore shins.

It is contraindicated in the presence of infection.

Low intensity laser therapy (LILT)

Low intensity lasers are used in equine practice to stimulate wound healing, tissue repair and
also for pain relief. The machine emits a narrow, focused beam of red or near infra-red

(invisible) light, which penetrates a variable depth into the tissues. The wavelength of the
light governs the depth of penetration and the power and wavelength can be altered by