Ultrasound Proof

The efficacy of Equine Spa Hydrotherapy can be verified by using ultrasound scans.

A thoroughbred racehorse sustained a severe superficial digital flexor tendon injury due to a fall in a race. He was first given 5 weeks of stall rest. He was then brought for Equine Spa therapy.

The first scan, shown on the left below, with longitudinal and cross sectional views, was taken on April 11, 2003 prior to commencement of Equine Spa Hydrotherapy treatment. Despite 5 weeks of stall rest, the tendon is still showing over 90% damaged tissue i.e. virtually anechoic.

Scan of Foreleg Before Treatment
(04/11/03)

Scan of Foreleg After 20 Days
(05/01/03)

In the opinion of Bruce Steele, an Equine Vet specialist, with over 20 years experience, it would take at least 2 months to show a relatively minor improvement.

After 2 weeks of Equine Spa therapy, the swelling and heat were considerably reduced, so a second scan was booked. The scan on the right was taken on the 1st of May following 20 days of treatment.

The second scan shows that the peri-tendinous fluid has dissipated and the tendon is showing good parallel alignment of healthy tissue i.e. much whiter in appearance. Also, on palpation there is no longer any pain. In Dr. Steele's expert opinion, this level of recovery was very much faster than normal.

Equine Spa treatment was continued for a further 2 weeks during which period the racehorse was gently exercised in hand and 1 week later was being ridden.

Below is the expanded longitudinal view of the same foreleg.

The two "x's" show the superficial digital flexor (SDF) or tendon which is just below the skin. The SDF is black in color showing over 90% tendon damage.

The right hand "+" is located just on the inside of the layer of skin i.e. there is a gap of approximately 2ml between the skin and the tendon which is filled with peri-tendinous fluid.

The picture above shows the same leg after just 20 days of hydrotherapy treatment.

The scans were taken by leading Northern Ireland Equine Vet, Bruce Steele, of the Equine Veterinary Clinic in Hillsborough.