Advanced Applications of Pulsed Electro-Magnetic Field Technology on Horses
By Richard Armentrout APF I, CJF
A vast number of clinical studies now support the use of PEMF therapy in both animals and humans. These benefits range from bone healing, wound healing, arthritis and associated inflammation, and even improving recovery times post-surgery by reducing pain and edema. PEMF energy penetrates through tissue of all types, allowing for effective, non-invasive delivery of the therapy.
Other physiological benefits include high increases in blood flow, accelerated reduction of inflammation in the locally treated area, increased cell metabolism and membrane permeability, and production of more nitric oxide resulting in more regulated blood flow to promote healing.
It’s well established by modern science that the root of most diseased states is chronic inflammation. Any natural therapy that reduces inflammation and increases circulation will have a profound effect on healing and overall health. For the equine athlete, PEMF’s beneficial effects are harnessed to treat tendon and ligament injuries, sore backs, stifles, shoulders, chronic hock soreness, non-union fractures, laminitis, stone bruises or abscesses, ulcers, slow-healing wounds, and even colic.
PEMF therapy is a natural alternative to drugs and invasive medical procedures and is becoming widely accepted among natural health advocates. This safe, natural, and noninvasive therapy is worth exploring for yourself and your animal friends.
General Equine Application
Over the last several years, the equine industry has seen the introduction of high-powered PEMF systems into race tracks, stables, and barns. Using specially designed delivery loops, a technician can target known problem areas like joints and major muscle groups on the horse.
For most equine athletes, after short treatments over several days, owners and trainers can generally see and feel an improvement in the way the horse moves. The PEMF field provides beneficial outcomes for tendon and ligament injury, sore backs, stifles, chronic hock soreness, sore shoulders, non-union fractures, laminitis, stone bruises, and non-healing wounds.
Multi-Powered / Multi-Frequency PEMF Device
To be effective, the device must create a PEMF strong enough to completely penetrate the injured area at a therapeutic level. The challenge is that the strength of a PEMF signal dissipates rapidly with increased distance from the loop. Often, the injured area is several inches below the skin.
If the PEMF device is not properly designed, the signal may drop below therapeutic levels before reaching the injury site, rendering treatment less effective. Deep blockages, scarring, and trauma of connective tissue or ligaments may also hinder magnetic field penetration.
When using a multi-powered, multi-frequency PEMF device, maximum penetration can be achieved as the intensity and resulting gauss levels are increased.
Hyper-Targeted PEMF Applications
After 20 years of equine PEMF use, veterinarians and equine care specialists now employ specific protocols for targeted body parts:
Hooves – The hoof is a primary anchor in a horse’s overall health. Without healthy hooves, a horse will inevitably suffer. The Hoof Pro System delivers PEMF applications from under the hoof for increased effectiveness.
Poll – PEMF use on the poll has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety.
Jaw – Applications for TMJ are challenging when using a traditional loop. The Mag Disc offers an ergonomic fit and can properly target the area.
Stifle – The inside of the stifle is too small for a traditional loop to fit. The Mag Disc fits easily inside the stifle for focused treatment.
Under the Abdomen – Applications for colic can be challenging, but the Mag Disc can target specific areas of the abdomen and provide deep penetration into the intestinal tract.
HERO PEMF Technology
The newly released HERO PEMF Technology is designed for hyper-targeted applications on both humans and animals. When a highly focused PEMF signal is needed, traditional loop applications can be unwieldy because they cover too large an area.
A proprietary series of Mag Discs now focus the entire PEMF signal into an area ¾” to 1½” in diameter, increasing gauss output by 5–8 times compared to a traditional loop. This highly focused signal penetrates much deeper into the targeted body part.
Where a traditional loop generates 800 gauss at a high setting, a Mag Disc at the same setting will generate 5,100 gauss. A white handheld 2.5” diameter wand with a 6” handle can be used as an alternative accessory.
Finding Economic Value and the 110 Volt Outlet Alternative
The Mag Disc and Hoof Pro Kit have been available since 2015, but they originally required purchase of an EquiPulse PEMF model ranging from $10,000 to $25,000. While EquiPulse technology is versatile, the cost can be prohibitive for buyers seeking a high-powered device at a lower price.
The HERO is now available in two models: the HERO X1 ($1,995) and the HERO X2 ($2,495). Buyers can customize their HERO with optional accessories. All HERO devices can be powered by a 12-volt adapter or the optional HERO Power Bank, capable of providing 3–15 hours of continuous power and eliminating the need for a wall outlet.
Summary
Both small and large animal veterinary practices are adapting to the evolving animal care landscape. Pet owners and caretakers increasingly prefer non-invasive, non-toxic, at-home treatments that are feasible and well-tolerated. There’s also growing emphasis on rehabilitation for chronic conditions, postoperative recovery, and “prehabilitation” to reduce the risk of injury or disease before surgery or competition.
Early PEMF devices lacked systematic evidence, and skepticism was compounded by unsubstantiated claims and unregulated products. However, over the past 30 years, research involving cells, animals, and humans has demonstrated PEMF’s biological effects and clinical value across many conditions.
The advancement of PEMF technology holds significant promise for both human and veterinary medicine—particularly in pain management, inflammation reduction, bone healing, and wound healing. The most rigorous and compelling results come from devices regulated by the FDA.