Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)
FES is a specialized form of electrical therapy used in horses to generate deep muscular contractions, aiding in rehabilitation. FES treatments have been successfully utilized to:
- Stimulate muscles, tendons, and ligaments to restore normal movement to injured tissue.
- Promote edema reduction and enhance tissue healing by increasing blood and lymph circulation through muscle movement.
- Stimulate muscle activity and sensory nerves for pain relief.
Shockwave Therapy
Shock wave therapy uses high-energy sound waves that penetrate through soft tissue at customized depths to reduce lameness, increase mobility and relieve pain.
Shockwave therapy uses high-energy sound waves that penetrate soft tissue at targeted depths to reduce lameness, improve mobility, and relieve pain. With over a decade of clinical success, shockwave treatments can help your horse return to work faster. The ProPulse system is covered by most insurance companies (up to three treatments), making it a valuable option for owners. For more information, visit PulseVet.
Equine Biologic Therapies
Equine biologic therapies utilize the horse’s own blood or bone marrow to promote healing. A sterile sample is collected and concentrated into a treatment dose, with each preparation method uniquely modifying the therapy’s properties. Following an injury, the body often produces scar tissue that lacks elasticity and is prone to re-injury. Biologics like PRP and IRAP introduce growth factors and anti-inflammatory proteins, encouraging improved healing and reducing the risk of re-injury. Examples of when to use biologics includes:
- Joint disease, such as cartilage damage or osteoarthritis, when steroids have not resolved lameness.
- Cases with contraindications to steroids (e.g., endocrine disorders).
- Soft tissue injuries.
- Post-surgical rehabilitation.
Biologic Therapy Options:
- PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma): A concentrated platelet solution that, once injected, releases growth factors promoting new blood vessel formation, reducing inflammation, and encouraging tissue regeneration.
- Prostride: A concentrated blood product containing cells, platelets, anti-inflammatory cytokines, and growth factors. It is prepared stall-side and administered on the same day, offering immediate benefits.
- Stem Cells: Derived from bone marrow, mesenchymal stem cells are cultivated to produce a high number of cells for treating conditions like meniscus injuries and tendon healing. Dr. Daniel has achieved remarkable success using stem cell therapy in horses that historically may not have regained soundness.
- IRAP (Interleukin-1 Receptor Antagonist Protein): A targeted anti-inflammatory cytokine therapy. Blood is incubated in a specialized syringe for 20 hours to multiply the IL-1ra protein. The serum is then separated, stored, and injected, commonly used for joint or suspensory ligament injuries. Learn more at The Horse.
Polyacrylamide Gels:
Polyacrylamide gels are advanced injectable treatments used to restore joint function and alleviate pain associated with osteoarthritis and other joint disorders. These hydrogels integrate into the synovial lining and surrounding tissues, providing long-term joint lubrication and cushioning. By enhancing the joint’s structural integrity, polyacrylamide gels reduce inflammation and friction, leading to sustained pain relief and improved mobility. They are particularly beneficial for horses that have not responded to traditional therapies, offering a non-steroidal, regenerative approach to joint care.
Regenerative Laser Therapy
Combining Therapeutic and regenerative components, our RLT laser from sound is the best on the market. Short, HIGH energy pulses are produced from light to create photo-acoustic sound waves. The photo-acoustic waves are produced isotropically (in all directions) to agitate the extracellular matrix and release growth factors. This component of the laser is what separates it from others on the market.