How does magnetic, ionic and ceramic technology actually work and why should you give it a go with your horses?
With continuous advances in technology the equestrian world is rapidly transforming. With so many new technologies available though, how do we know what to pick?
Magnetic technology
Magnetic technology has been on the equestrian market for some years now – a long term favourite for helping with swollen joints and arthritic muscles.
Magnetic wraps are often used to target specific leg issues and the rugs for travelling or post exercise. Equilibrium Products say that magnetic helps with the following:
- increased blood flow, therefore helping relieve stiffness and reduce filling in the horse’s legs;
- relieve the symptoms of Arthritis;
- improve recovery rates following injury, or relieve problems associated with tendon damage, splints, navicular, bone chips, and general knocks and bumps;
- improve recovery rates following strenuous exercise;
But how does it work? The Equilibrium Products’ website is a good place to go to gain further information, but to summarise, they say:
‘The body’s cells have electromagnetic properties which means they can be energised by a magnetic field. Magnetic encourages blood flow and increases cellular activity in the body however, magnets in themselves, do not heal.’
When a powerful magnet is placed against the body, cellular activity is increased, and this in turn can increase the rate at which cells regenerate and repair.’
Ceramic technology
Ceramic technology is used predominantly with the aim to improve performance pre-exercise (pre-warmed up muscles) and post exercise to help with recovery.
Woof Wear has recently brought out its own range of ceramic wraps, aimed to help with the following:
- reducing inflammation
- promote healing
- prevent swelling
- speed up recovery time
- warm lower leg ready for exercise
- improve flexion
How does it work?
Woof Wear explain:
- ‘The Bio Ceramic Fabric emits and reflects the body’s own Far Infrared Rays (FIR)’
- ‘FIR penetrates deep into the tissue, stimulating the body’s cells’
- ‘The stimulation causes the blood vessels to dilate, increasing circulation’
‘The benefits of increased circulation include aiding efficient removal of toxins that have built up in the body, and increasing oxygen and nutrient delivery to help speed up the healing process.’
Ionic technology
The most recent addition to the equestrian technological world is ionic , introduced by Horseware.
This offers a different technology again in how it works, but predominantly the target is to help with pre-and post-exercise performance and recovery.
So, what does it do and how does it help?
- increased circulation
- stimulates metabolism
- increased oxygen delivery to the cells and tissues
- strengthened immune system
- restores pH balance
- reduced blood pressure
Horseware explain how their rugs work:
‘Designed to release negative ions through the Tourmaline infused inner fabric, this causes an electrical change in the water within your horse’s body which helps increase blood and oxygen circulation, and in turn reduce toxins. Perfect for use before exercise to help prepare the muscles for work, or after to aid recovery and reduce the build up of lactic acid in the muscles.’
What are negative ions?
Negative ions are air molecules that have gained an electron to get a negative charge
What is Tourmaline?
Tourmaline is a naturally occurring crystal. When it is ground down to a powder form it releases an electric charge which converts the surrounding air molecules to negative ions.’
It is worthwhile to note these aren’t a substitute for regular physio/saddler/vet visits and it is a good idea to liaise with these professionals before choosing products.
To help choose, identify what you are trying to treat and which part of the horse (back vs legs for example) and whether you need a pre or post exercise treatment before deciding which product to go for.
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