REHAB: TENS

As a sport horse owner, you're constantly seeking the best for your equine partner. You're familiar with the rigorous demands of training and competition, and you understand the importance of a comprehensive and proactive approach to their health. At Lavender Fields, we specialize in exactly this, and one of the most effective, yet often misunderstood, tools in our equine rehab toolkit is Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, or TENS therapy.

What is TENS Therapy?

Simply put, TENS therapy is a non-invasive, drug-free method of pain management that uses a small, battery-operated device to deliver a low-voltage electrical current to the horse's skin. The current is delivered through electrodes placed on or near the affected area. TENS works on two primary principles:

1. The "Gate Control" Theory: The electrical impulses from the TENS unit stimulate sensory nerves, effectively "closing the gate" on pain signals before they can reach the brain. This provides immediate, symptomatic pain relief.

2. Endorphin Release: TENS therapy can also trigger the release of endorphins—the body's natural painkillers—which can provide a more prolonged and widespread analgesic effect.

While often confused with other electrotherapies like NMES (Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation) or FES (Functional Electrical Stimulation), TENS therapy is unique in that its primary focus is on pain relief by stimulating sensory nerves, not on causing muscle contractions to build muscle.

Why TENS Therapy is a Game-Changer for Your Horse

At Lavender Fields, we've seen firsthand how TENS therapy can be a vital component of a sport horse's rehabilitation and maintenance plan. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Effective Pain Management: For horses dealing with chronic or acute musculoskeletal pain, such as back soreness, arthritis, or post-operative pain, TENS can provide much-needed relief without the side effects of traditional pain medications.

• Relaxation of Muscle Spasms: Pain often leads to compensatory muscle spasms. By interrupting the pain cycle, TENS can help relax tight, contracted muscles, which in turn improves comfort and mobility.

• Reduced Reliance on Medication: TENS offers a fantastic drug-free alternative or supplement to traditional pain management, which can be a significant benefit for performance horses, especially during a demanding competition season.

• Improved Recovery: By alleviating pain and relaxing muscles, TENS therapy can facilitate a more comfortable and faster recovery from injury or strenuous workouts.

• Increased Circulation: The electrical impulses can help increase blood flow to the treated area, delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to damaged tissues and speeding up the healing process.

Signals Your Horse Could Benefit from TENS Therapy

As a dedicated horse owner or trainer, you're the first line of defense in spotting issues. Here are some signs that your sport horse might be a candidate for TENS therapy:

• Changes in Performance: Is your horse showing a reluctance to perform certain movements, such as refusing jumps, struggling with lateral work, or showing a shortened stride? This could be a sign of underlying discomfort.

• Behavioral Cues: Unexplained spookiness, girthing issues, or a change in attitude could be subtle signals of pain. A horse that is uncharacteristically grumpy or resistant may be trying to tell you something.

• Palpable Soreness: If you notice your horse flinching or becoming sensitive when you palpate their back, neck, or other muscle groups, it's a clear indication of pain and muscle tension.

• Post-Injury or Post-Surgical Recovery: TENS is an excellent tool for managing pain and promoting healing after an injury or surgery, helping your horse get back on track more comfortably.

• Chronic Conditions: For horses with conditions like arthritis, lameness, or certain nerve injuries, TENS therapy can be a regular part of their maintenance plan to manage discomfort and improve their quality of life.

At Lavender Fields, we understand that every horse is an individual. As a certified professional, including ASTR (Animal Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation) certification, we will create a customized rehabilitation plan for your equine athlete. TENS therapy is just one of the many modalities we may incorporate to ensure your horse receives the highest standard of care, helping them return to peak performance and enjoy a long, healthy career.

To learn more about how TENS therapy or our other equine rehab services can benefit your horse, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Your horse's comfort and well-being are our top priority.