Shockwave vs. PEMF
If you’ve spent enough time around a barn, you’ve likely seen a veterinarian roll up with a shockwave machine or a bodyworker toting a PEMF device. At first glance, these therapies might seem similar—both involve fancy equipment and promise to help your horse feel better. But they are actually quite different. Let’s break down the differences, benefits, and considerations 👇🏼
Shockwave Therapy: High-Impact Healing
What is it? Shockwave therapy uses high-energy acoustic sound waves to stimulate healing in a horse’s body. These powerful waves penetrate deep into tissues, intentionally creating controlled micro-trauma. This micro-trauma triggers an inflammatory response, essentially telling the body, “Hey, you’re injured—get to work healing!” By kickstarting the body’s natural repair processes, shockwave therapy accelerates recovery for specific injuries.
When is it used? Veterinarians often recommend shockwave therapy for soft-tissue injuries, such as:
Tendon and ligament damage (e.g., bowed tendons or suspensory ligament strains)
Back or sacroiliac soreness
Chronic conditions like navicular syndrome or osteoarthritis
Treatments are typically administered 1–2 times per month for 3–5 sessions, depending on the injury and the veterinarian’s protocol.
What’s the experience like for the horse? Shockwave therapy is intense. The machine generates loud, high-energy pulses that can be uncomfortable or startling for horses. To keep the horse calm, veterinarians often administer a mild sedative. Because of its potency and potential risks, shockwave therapy is a regulated treatment that can only be performed by a licensed veterinarian.
Benefits and risks One unique feature of shockwave therapy is its analgesic effect, which can reduce pain for up to 72 hours post-treatment. This is a double-edged sword. While it provides relief for horses with acute pain, it can also mask discomfort, potentially leading to overexertion if the horse is worked too soon after treatment. For this reason, most equine governing bodies prohibit shockwave therapy within 3–5 days of competition to prevent overuse injuries.
Cost and accessibility Shockwave therapy tends to be more expensive due to the need for veterinary administration and specialized equipment. Costs vary depending on location and the number of sessions, but it’s generally a significant investment.
PEMF Therapy: Gentle Cellular Stimulation
What is it? Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy uses low-frequency magnetic pulses to stimulate cells and promote healing. Unlike shockwave’s high-impact approach, PEMF delivers gentle energy pulses that “wake up” cells, encouraging them to function more efficiently. While the machine may produce a faint clicking sound, it’s much quieter than shockwave and far less invasive.
When is it used? PEMF is incredibly versatile and can be used for:
Tendon and ligament injuries
Muscle soreness or stiffness
Joint issues or arthritis
General wellness and recovery after intense training
Stress reduction and improved mood
It’s often used as part of a regular maintenance program to keep horses feeling their best, even without a specific injury.
What’s the experience like for the horse? Most horses find PEMF sessions relaxing and enjoyable, often standing quietly without the need for sedation. The treatment is non-invasive, and the horse may feel a slight tingling or warmth as the magnetic pulses work their magic. PEMF devices can be operated by trained professionals, such as certified equine bodyworkers, making it more accessible than shockwave therapy.
Benefits and risks PEMF therapy promotes increased circulation, oxygenation, and cellular repair, which can speed recovery and improve overall well-being. It’s also known for reducing stress and enhancing mood, making it a favorite for horses in high-stress environments like competition barns. Unlike shockwave, PEMF has no significant analgesic effect, so there’s less risk of a horse overdoing it post-treatment. However, some veterinarians remain skeptical of PEMF due to inconsistent regulation in the industry. For best results, always choose a certified and insured PEMF practitioner.
Cost and accessibility PEMF is generally more affordable than shockwave therapy, with sessions often costing less and requiring no veterinary oversight. This makes it a practical option for regular maintenance or for owners on a budget.
Which is the Better Option for Your Horse?
The choice between shockwave and PEMF therapy depends on your horse’s specific needs, your budget, and your veterinarian’s recommendations. Here’s a quick comparison to guide your decision:
Condition: Shockwave is ideal for targeted, severe soft-tissue injuries or chronic conditions requiring deep tissue stimulation. PEMF is better suited for general soreness, wellness, or less severe injuries.
Invasiveness: Shockwave is more intense and often requires sedation, while PEMF is gentle and non-invasive.
Cost: PEMF is typically more affordable and accessible.
Regulation: Shockwave is restricted to veterinarians, while PEMF can be administered by certified practitioners.
Competition rules: Shockwave is banned within days of competition due to its analgesic effects, while PEMF is generally permitted (some restrictions apply depending on the organization).
Ultimately, the best approach is to consult with your veterinarian to develop a tailored treatment plan. In some cases, combining both therapies—shockwave for acute injuries and PEMF for ongoing maintenance—can yield excellent results.
Both shockwave and PEMF therapies offer valuable tools for supporting your horse’s health and performance. Shockwave’s high-energy approach is a powerful option for specific injuries, while PEMF’s gentle, versatile nature makes it a go-to for wellness and recovery. By understanding their differences and discussing options with your veterinarian, you can make informed choices to keep your horse happy, healthy, and ready to thrive.
