EQUINE CRYOTHERAPY - What does it do?
Equine Whole Body Cryotherapy - How does it achieve the result?
introduces the equine athlete to temperatures of -200 to -250F for a period of 4-6 minutes. WIthin 30 seconds, the body reacts by entering a state of "thermal shock". this cutaneous thermal shock must be achieved in only a few seconds in order to trigger a central neurological response. The cells need to be exposed to extreme cold temperatures for a short period of time in order to create "life danger" condition without the risk of tissue damage. "COLD ENOUGH-SHORT ENOUGH" is the key. Cryotherapy is the only method to achieve this reaction.
In comparison with the more traditional application of ice, the cooling of the Cryotherapy cabin intensity is so high that the body doesn't have enough time to compensate for the loss of heat. Within 15 minutes post treatment overcompensation occurs, creating increased blood flow to the body, helping damaged tissues to recover faster. Lactic acid in the blood returns to the same level as it was prior to extensive physical exercise. The elevated levels of adrenaline & testosterone improve performance. The endorphins relieve stress & improve overall mental state.
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In short the whole body treatment is able to accommodate the entire body & treats areas that are not treatable with other modalities.
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Some of the areas that are addressed during a treatment session include: all lower limbs, feet, back, SI, Shoulders, neck, stifles, hamstrings and so much more!!
MORE INFORMATION:
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Cold therapy has long been known to reduce swelling, speed up the healing process, alleviate pain & inflammation. Bringing down the temperature of muscles & ligaments after a work out can prevent soreness & speed healing of minor tears or injuries that may have occurred, thus avoiding a costly injury.
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The temperature drop activates the cutaneous neuroreceptors & thermoreceptors, generating an immediate remote corrective reflex in the body that activates the neurovegetative system sending the body into a defensive mode. The defensive mode quickly transports the bodys blood, nutrients & resources to the organs in the core. During this process the body starts oxygenating the blood, flushing it of toxins & lactic acid.
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This then produces several effects on endocrinal & enzymatic production, an inhibitive effect on pain receptors. The relaying of nervous impulses, the activation of the vascular & lymphatic systems. There is also the additional benefit of muscle relaxation, mental focus & immune system activation
FAQ's
Q: Will my horse grow a winter coat?
A: No, the treatment is only "cold enough, long enough" to create a thermal shock to activate the body's corrective response. It is not a long term cold to make the horse physically cold.
Q: Will my horse be cold?
A: No, they are not subjected to the cold temperature to create a physical cold. In fact, the body begins overcompensating before they exit the cabin and will actually feel warm to the touch.
Q: Will this affect my stallions semen:
A: Yes - in a good way. The therapy actually increases testosterone, semen count and motility.
Q: Can I treat my pregnant mare:
A: No, we suggest not treating a pregnant mare - the therapy can slow down the heartbeat of the fetus
Q: My horse urinated when returned to his stall after therapy - is this normal?
A: Yes!!! this is the body starting a detox & flushing toxins. You may also notice your horse take on water - this to is normal.
Q: My horse is resting flat out in their stall - is this normal?
A: Yes! your horse is relaxed and regenerating. You may also find your horse will perform at a higher level, in a more relaxed, focused & willing state and with more confidence!
Q: Can my horse be wet?
A: No, your horse can be damp sweaty, but not wet.
