Static magnet therapy has been in use for thousands of years and offers a non-invasive means of increasing circulation and supporting the body’s natural ability to repair and restore itself. As technology has advanced over time, so too has our understanding and ability to harness this therapy.
The creation and use of Pulsed Electro Magnetic Field (PEMF) therapy in the late 1970’s was a huge turning point for magnetic therapy, as it was now able to be electrified, pulsed, and directed to where it was needed most, at a frequency best suited to its task.
Nowadays, both static and PEMF therapies are available for personal therapeutic use, although the way they work and the results they offer do vary. So, what’s the difference between the two? And which one is right for your horse?
Static Magnets
When used directly against the skin, static magnets will influence the bioelectrical composition of the tissue underneath. While the magnetic field generated is unchanging, the blood flowing through the tissue contains charged ions, which are drawn to the magnetic placement.
While the effects of static magnets have historically been largely anecdotal, scientific studies into their use have yielded encouraging results. In 1997, a study into the use of static magnets in a hospital environment found that when the magnets were placed over trigger points, they provided significant pain relief to patients suffering from nerve damage. A 2009 study yielded similar results, with one patient citing a 90% reduction in pain upon application of magnet therapy. This has resulted in magnets being utilised for pain relief, both chronic pain and temporary by promoting blood flow to the region.
It has also proven to be a gentle way of helping both people and horses recover with very few side effects seen by using magnets in treatment.
Static magnets are low cost and easy to use and can assist in the treatment of a range of equine issues, including:
- Joint stiffness
- General tightness
- Muscle strains
- Bruising
- Localised swelling
The use of magnets is also often beneficial following long-distance travel and may assist in the promotion of general relaxation. See our magnetic horse rug option.
Pulsed Magnetics (PEMF)
PEMF is separate treatment entirely, in which a magnetic field is pulsed through tissue fibres at a range of pre-set, variable frequencies. The pulsing nature of the magnetic therapy stimulates circulation and cellular activity, and the varied range of frequencies allows the therapy to achieve fast and deep results. On top of this, PEMF therapy is both anti-inflammatory and analgesic, relieving pain and swelling without compromising immune system functions.
The therapeutic benefits of PEMF have been scientifically proven and documented to the point that PEMF machines are now commonplace in hospitals, in which they are successfully used to treat fractures, sprains, and to assist in bone reparation following specific types of cancer.
Equine studies into the use of PEMF have found the therapy to be successful in the treatment of a wide range of ailments, including:
- Tendon and ligament injuries
- Sore backs
- Sacro-iliac injuries/soreness
- Sore stifles
- Chronic hock pain
- Non-union fractures
- Laminitis
- Founder
- Stone Bruising
- Non-healing wounds
How to utilise PEMF for your horse
The Activo-Med Therapy system sets a new standard for performance therapy. Activo-Med leads the world as the only system combining Pulsed Electro Magnetic Field (PEMF) and Massage. By offering the choice of multiple therapy programs, you can personalise the treatment to the needs and issues of your horse. PEMF therapy is created by passing an electric current (from the battery) through a number of copper coils. The frequency at which the current is sent is controlled by the control box. This is set up to frequencies suitable for therapeutic use to suit pre and post exercise plus specific conditions and rehabilitation.
To learn more about how Activo-Med can assist your horse, talk to us today. Our team can tailor a therapeutic solution that’s perfect for your stable.
