Very Common
Less Common
Related Observations
This treatment might be used for a horse exhibiting these signs.
Treatment
A way to improve or resolve a condition or diagnosis. This might include resolving the underlying cause or treating the signs of disease (symptomatic treatment).
Cost: Under $100
These cost ranges are approximate and may vary from region to region.
Additional charges may also apply.
YOUR VET MAY Recommend
Cold Therapy, Ice, Generally
Cost: Under $100
These cost ranges are approximate and may vary from region to region.
Additional charges may also apply.
Summary
Cold therapy is helpful for horses with musculoskeletal injuries, especially of the limbs.
When an injury occurs, an early goal of therapy is to reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain. Cold therapy is an important part of that. It has maximal effects if applied as soon as possible (within 24-48 hours of injury). Ice and very cold water constricts blood vessels. This slows bleeding into the tissues, and decreases swelling, inflammation, and pain. Ice also slows the inflammatory process and thus the formation of mediator molecules of pain and swelling.
Research has shown that commercial cold packs are easy to use and convenient but ice water immersion is the only treatment method where ideal tissue temperature levels were achieved.
When an injury occurs, an early goal of therapy is to reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain. Cold therapy is an important part of that. It has maximal effects if applied as soon as possible (within 24-48 hours of injury). Ice and very cold water constricts blood vessels. This slows bleeding into the tissues, and decreases swelling, inflammation, and pain. Ice also slows the inflammatory process and thus the formation of mediator molecules of pain and swelling.
Research has shown that commercial cold packs are easy to use and convenient but ice water immersion is the only treatment method where ideal tissue temperature levels were achieved.
my vet's role
Related Diagnoses
This treatment might be used to treat these conditions or ailments.
Very Common
Less Common
Know Related Treatments
Your vet considers other treatments that might be used along with or instead of this treatment.
CONSIDER POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS & COMPLICATIONS
Long term application of cold or excessively cold temperatures can damage tissues.CONSIDER REASONS NOT TO USE THIS TREATMENT
If the wound is already more than 3 days old, cold therapy can impede healing by slowing down the metabolism of the healing tissue.your role
Is it working? Timeframe for effect.
The affect of cold should be seen within minutes to hours, reduced swelling and pain at the site of injury. Related References:
AAEP Website. Cold Therapy & Ice Bandages. Available at:
http://www.aaep.org/info/horse-health?publication=772. Accessed 2014.
Kaneps AJ. Tissue temperature response to hot and cold therapy in the metacarpal region of the horse. 46th Annual AAEP Proceedings 2000;46:208-13.
Lehmann JF, Warren CG, Sham SM. Therapeutic heat and cold. Clin Orthop Relat Res 1974;(99):207-45.