An example of ‘near infrared’ is the LED, or light-emitting diode. Christina Reguli, who with her husband Dennis developed According to ‘Gospel’ – Equine Light Terapy LED light pads to help heal their show jumper Gospel Hour, reports that photon receptors in the body’s cellular mitochondria absorb and use the energy from the LED lights. “Damaged cells can’t produce the energy needed to repair themselves; exposing them to the energy from the LED lights provides the extra resources they need to heal,” says Reguli, adding that anyone can use LEDs safely. “Te delivery of the energy is very gentle with LEDs. One of the beauties of this form of light therapy is that you don’t necessarily need special training to use it.”
Laser Terapy Invented in 1960, the term ‘laser’ is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. A laser is a focused stream of oscillating electric and magnetic waves, and different types can result in visible light, or invisible radiation (eg, X-rays, microwaves), depending on the wave’s length.
While they’ve become commonplace in our society, some lasers are extremely powerful and require special handling and safety precautions, yet others have been identified as ideal in the treatment of soft tissue injuries. “Our laser wavelength is 904nm, which we’ve determined allows for the greatest penetration into joints and muscles while still providing a safe and easy-to- use device,” reports Doreen Hudson, vice president at Respond Systems. “It allows enough energy for a rapid treatment, but not so much that it can heat tissue, which can be a problem with stronger lasers.” Lasers can stimulate circulation to speed healing; when combined with another modality such as acupressure, lasers can even help break up scar tissue.
Lasers can stimulate circulation to speed healing; when combined with another modality such as acupressure, lasers can even help break up scar tissue.
Understanding laser power classifications can be complicated, but the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has made it easier for the consumer with ‘danger logo’ labeling that specifies the potential eye damage hazard from a 20cm distance. “If you’re advertising a true laser therapy system, it’s a federal law to show the danger logo,” advises Hudson.
Magnetic Terapy Magnetic therapy works via creating a magnetic field that penetrates into a horse’s soft tissue and bone. One result is the charging of blood particles, enhancing their movement patterns to stimulate both healing nutrients and blood flow to an injured area. Options include different sizes, strengths, and even types of magnets; for example, ‘static’ or ‘stagnant’ continued on p. 6
Holistic Horse™ • October/November 2010 • Vol.16, Issue 69
HOOF PAD
Horsemen know that problems
often start from the feet!
Abscess Concussion Bruised Feet 3 MONTH RENTALS
1 - 8 0 0 - 3 8 7 - 8 3 2 6
www.centurion-systems.com
Pocketbook Therapy
Some therapeutic equipment is very reasonably priced, while others can be costly. When you’re ready to try something new, a few financial tips: * Consider a co-op approach, pooling resources for the purchase of large-ticket items. Set up a contract as to who uses the equipment and when, and what the group will do in the event of a co-owner buyout, or should a complete equipment sale become necessary.
* Keep your eye out for used or reconditioned equipment; contact manufacturers or search online for options.
* Have a friend who already uses the equipment you want to try? Ask if you can borrow it for a specified trial period. Or, you might be able to rent equipment from a manufacturer or other resource such as your local veterinarian.
* If you’re looking at equipment that’s geared toward medical recovery rather than wellness or conditioning purposes, you might want to check with your insurance agent to see if it’s eligible under your equine mortality/major medical policy. While most equine policies don’t currently cover holistic treatments, it never hurts to ask.
www.holistichorse.com | 5
Thermotex, Ltd.
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