Equine Electrotherapy

Available since the 1960s, electrotherapy treatment has found many veterinary applications, especially in the treatment of equine injuries, by promoting healing, reducing pain and increasing blood flow. It also has been used to force medication through the skin.

  1. How it Works

    • According to the Equine Health Care website, electrodes applied to the skin, in a manner similar to acupuncture needles, allow intermittent, low-voltage stimulation of the nerves in a particular area. This stimulation blocks pain impulses and encourages the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers. Removal of pain is the body's signal to begin the healing process. Electrotherapy also is used to rebuild muscle strength by stimulating muscle contraction.

    Uses

    • Electrotherapy has been found useful in the treatment of such equine conditions as osteoarthritis, bucked shins, tendinitis and even laminitis. It also has proved useful in removing edema and increasing motion range.

    Benefits

    • Not only has electrotherapy proved effective in treating pain and promoting healing, it is also non-addictive and without the negative side effects of such medicines as phenylbutazone, which has been known to cause stomach ulcers and other digestive upsets. In addition, the effects of electrotherapy do not lessen with repeated use.