# The Effect of Magnetotherapy on Back Pain Sensitivity and Muscle Tension in Recreational Horses—A Pilot Study

## TL;DR

A pilot study found that magnetotherapy may reduce back pain and muscle tension in horses without causing heat-related side effects.

## Contribution

This is the first pilot study evaluating low-frequency pulsed magnetic field therapy for back pain in recreational horses.

## Key findings

- Magnetotherapy reduced back pain sensitivity and muscle tension in horses.
- Thermal imaging confirmed the therapy did not increase surface temperature.
- Horses showed decreased heart rate, suggesting a relaxing effect.

## Abstract

Back pain is a common issue among riding horses and can negatively affect their comfort and performance. Magnetotherapy, as a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic fields, is believed to reduce pain and help muscles recover. In this pilot study, four recreational horses with back problems (hypersensitivity to palpation) received magnetotherapy treatments. Their responses were measured by evaluating back pain sensitivity through palpation and movement tests and using thermal imaging to assess changes in temperature. The results showed a decrease in back pain and muscle tension after the therapy. The horses were visibly more relaxed during and after the treatment, as evidenced by a reduction in heart rate. Importantly, the therapy did not raise the temperature of the horses’ backs, confirming that it does not generate heat and is safe to use, even with acute, early-stage inflammation. These findings support the use of magnetotherapy as a helpful addition to standard care for horses with back problems. This therapy may improve equine comfort and support their long-term well-being.

Back pain in horses is a frequent musculoskeletal issue that affects performance and welfare. Magnetotherapy has been proposed as a complementary, non-invasive treatment to reduce pain and support soft tissue recovery, but studies in horses remain limited. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the effects of low-frequency pulsed magnetic field therapy on horses with hypersensitivity to palpation along the longissimus dorsi muscle. Four recreational horses participated in a 10-session magnetotherapy program, with changes assessed using palpation, neck flexibility tests, heart rate measurements and thermal imaging. Results showed a reduction in pain sensitivity and muscle tension, particularly in the withers, thoracic, lumbar and sacral regions. Heart rate decreased after treatment, which may indicate a relaxing effect. Thermal imaging confirmed that magnetotherapy did not increase surface temperature, confirming its non-thermal nature. No adverse effects or swelling were observed in any of the horses. These findings provide preliminary data from this pilot study, suggesting that magnetotherapy may be a beneficial adjunct in the treatment of back pain in horses, promoting relaxation and pain relief without inducing tissue heating. Further research on larger populations with a negative control group is needed to validate these findings and support broader clinical application.