How PEMF Therapy Can Help Laminitis in Horses

Laminitis is a serious and often painful condition that affects horses, causing inflammation in the laminae of the hoof. These soft tissues connect the hoof wall to the coffin bone, and when they become inflamed, they can lead to severe pain, lameness, and even long-term damage. In some cases, laminitis can be life-threatening, making early detection and effective management crucial.

In this blog, we’ll explore what laminitis is, the common causes, symptoms to look out for, and how MagnaWave PEMF can play a role in managing and alleviating this condition.

What is Laminitis?

Laminitis is an inflammation of the sensitive laminae that bond the hoof wall to the underlying coffin bone in a horse’s hoof. When the laminae become inflamed, they weaken, which can cause the coffin bone to rotate or sink. This is not only extremely painful for the horse but can also lead to long-term lameness or in severe cases, euthanasia.

Common Causes of Laminitis

Several factors can trigger laminitis in horses, including:

• Overeating grains or lush grass: Excessive consumption of carbohydrates can cause a metabolic overload, leading to laminitis.
• Endocrine disorders: Conditions like equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) and Cushing’s disease can predispose horses to laminitis.
• Obesity: Overweight horses are at a higher risk of developing laminitis due to the added pressure on their hooves and the potential for metabolic disturbances.
• Injury or overuse: Laminitis can develop as a secondary condition from an injury or excessive work on hard surfaces.
• Systemic infections or inflammation: Serious infections or inflammatory responses can lead to laminitis.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Laminitis symptoms can range from subtle to severe. Early detection is key to managing the condition before it progresses. Some common signs include:

• Reluctance to move or bear weight on one or more hooves
• Heat in the hoof wall
• Lameness, especially on hard surfaces or when turning
• The horse adopting a “rocked back” stance to take pressure off the front hooves

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian immediately for diagnosis and treatment.

How MagnaWave PEMF Can Help

MagnaWave PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) therapy offers a non-invasive, drug-free option for managing laminitis by sending pulsed electromagnetic waves through the body. PEMF therapy targets cells and tissues, leading to several key benefits for horses suffering from this condition: 

1. Improves Circulation: PEMF therapy can enhance circulation, promoting oxygen and nutrient delivery to the tissues, which helps the healing process.
2. Reduces Inflammation: PEMF is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing inflammation in the laminae, MagnaWave can help decrease pain and discomfort, allowing the horse to be more comfortable.
3. Accelerates Healing: MagnaWave promotes cellular regeneration, which is crucial for horses recovering from laminitis. Faster healing can prevent further complications and help the horse return to normal activity sooner.
4. Pain Management: PEMF therapy has been shown to relieve pain by increasing endorphin release, making it a natural alternative to medication.
5. Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Horses suffering from laminitis are often stressed due to the pain and restricted mobility. PEMF therapy has a calming effect that can help reduce stress and anxiety during recovery.

Learn more about the science of PEMF here.

How to Incorporate MagnaWave PEMF into Your Care Plan

If your horse is experiencing laminitis or is prone to it, consider incorporating MagnaWave PEMF into their care routine. Regular sessions can help manage pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing over time. It’s important to work closely with your veterinarian to create a comprehensive treatment plan that includes PEMF therapy along with other necessary treatments like diet management, corrective shoeing, or medication.

If you want to learn more about how MagnaWave can benefit your horse or want to schedule a session, contact us today! We’re here to help your horse feel their best.