Combining science, space and horses – Understanding PEMF
It’s being trailed by NASA, is used by trainers and athletes within the Australian Institute of Sport, and has been a focus point of Activo-Med therapeutic systems for years. So, what exactly is PEMF? And how does it help?
If you own, ride or train horses, chances are that you’ve probably come across equine massage therapy at some point. Whether you’ve seen horses sporting customised massage units at shows, have enlisted the help of a trained therapist, or even hired a system to ‘give it a try’, there’s no denying the rise in demand for equine massage – and with good reason; the circulatory benefits to massage have been well documented, as has its relaxation and therapeutic effects along with being part of treating aliments such as kissing spine.
Relatively new to the Australian equine scene, however, is Pulsed Electromagnetic Field therapy – and if its popularity within Europe and the United States is anything to go by, it’s set to take the Australian community by storm. So, what exactly is PEMF therapy? And (most importantly!) how can it benefit our equine companions?
What Is PEMF Therapy?
Scientifically speaking, Pulsed Electro-Magnetic Field Therapy is a non invasive treatment which applies a magnetic field to the cells within the body by pulsing electromagnetic impulse at a pre-set (but variable) frequency and intensity. The impulse interacts with the ions present within specific cells, accelerating activity and expediting the flow of oxygen and nutrients. When applied to injuries, PEMF Therapy can assist in both kick-starting and boosting the healing process at a cellular level, whilst simultaneously accelerating the disposal of toxins and waste products.
In fact, the therapeutic benefits of PEMF have now been so well documented that the space administration NASA recently dropped over $3.5 million in PEMF research, with a view to use the treatment to reverse the bone loss experienced in astronauts following extended periods of time in gravity-free environments. In 2009 NASA was awarded the patent for PEMF use to enhance tissue repair in animals, and ultimately concluded PEMF to be successful in the repair of damaged tissue, noting the following in their report:
“One may use this electrical potentiation for a number of purposes, including developing tissues for transplantation, repairing traumatized tissues, and moderating some neurodegenerative diseases and perhaps controlling the degeneration of tissue as might be effected in a bioelectric stasis field.”
You may also be interested in our article on the difference between PEMF and static magnets.
What are the benefits of PEMF?
For horse riders, PEMF therapy offers an ability to proactively ‘jump start’ the healing process, minimising downtime due to injury or illness. When used as part of a cool down routine, PEMF therapy can also assist in facilitating post-work recovery and reduce the soreness associated with muscle strain and lactic acid build up. The option to vary the frequency at which it operates allows PEMF therapy to be modified to specifically target the area (and density) at which its needed most. In short, PEMF therapy devices can help your horse train at its best, compete to its fullest, and bounce back from injury or work as quickly as possible.
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. It can also be used in combination with other rehabilitation strategies including using the Equiband system or using a horse treadmill. 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. See also our article on the difference between Equissage and Activo-Med.
You may also be interested in out recent article on causes and symptoms of colic in horses.
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.
