Magnetic therapy for horses is a popular therapy type, and it’s easy to see why – it’s low cost, easily available and can be integrated into most management regimes. In addition to static magnetic therapy there’s Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF); still as easy to use, but works in a slightly different way. Here, Serena Hickson, Managing Director of FMBs Therapy Systems, talks to us about the differences and why we might want to use magnetic and PEMF therapy.
Magnetic Therapy
Static magnetic therapy isn’t a new thing, it’s been used for thousands of years. Now, due to modern materials, magnets are smaller and stronger than ever. They can now be integrated into rugs, boots and other products without being clumpy or awkward.
Magnetic therapy is natural and non-invasive. Magnets themselves don’t heal, but they help support the right environment for the body to heal itself. They work by supporting increased blood flow to the areas below them. The blood flow brings increased oxygen levels, helps remove waste products and supports a reduction in inflammation.
Magnets work by supporting increased blood flow to the areas below them. The blood flow brings increased oxygen levels, helps remove waste products and supports a reduction in inflammation.
Magnets are now integrated into a range of products – rugs are popular as they are positioned over key areas, but they can also be put into boots and wraps, or put into pads that are used on different areas of the body. They’re low cost, really easy to use, can be used each day or as-and-when required.
Magnetic therapy is also used for a range of conditions including stiff joints and muscles, sprains and strains, bumps and bruises, after strenuous activity and for general relaxation. Travelling is also a key time when people use magnetic therapy.
Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF)
PEMF is a different type of therapy. It can be used for general well-being, to support peak performance and in the case of injury.
How Does PEMF Works?
When it comes to magnetic therapy for horses, PEMF plays a crucial role in attaining and maintaining equine health. But how does PEMF work?
PEMF uses selected therapeutic frequencies, created by a battery-powered box, that help to stimulate the different cells in the body, so they regenerate and work more efficiently together. Research has shown that cells of different tissues respond to different frequencies, hence why providing a range of frequencies is beneficial. The battery-powered box is a small, fixed unit, or the element can be integrated throughout products such as rugs and boots.
PEMF can be used to support the repair of soft tissue injuries, reduce inflammation, for pain relief, and it can be used to help the healing of fractures. The intensity, duration and frequency of the therapy is changed depending on why it’s being used, which enables it to be used on a wide range of issues. The effectiveness has been FDA approved and is used by a number of organisations, including the NHS.
PEMF is also used with other therapies too, for additional benefits. Massage is a particularly popular therapy that works well alongside it. Some products (such as Activo-Med lines) offer PEMF and massage together in easy to use rugs, boots and more. These are all controlled by a central box that sets the cyclonic massage modules and PEMF spools in action, as per the specified programme.
PEMF is also affordable. Units are found for around £165, and products with integral PEMF and massage can be bought new, or second-hand. They can also be hired if required.
To find out more, see FMBS or call 01494 883433
Suzanne Ashton, Founder of Everything Horse (Est, 2012), has a BA Hons in Marketing Management and a Diploma in Equine Science. Suzanne has ridden and owned horses all her life and has twelve years of experience in marketing, writing, design, SEO, and website creation.