Capacitive resistive electric transfer modifies gait pattern in horses exercised on a treadmill.
Authors: Becero Mireya, Saitua Aritz, Argüelles David, Sánchez de Medina Antonia Lucía, Castejón-Riber Cristina, Riber Cristina, Muñoz Ana
Journal: BMC veterinary research
Summary
# Editorial Summary: CRET and Equine Gait Modification Capacitive resistive electric transfer (CRET)—a 448 kHz radiofrequency therapy—has demonstrated benefits in human athletes including improved tissue perfusion, metabolic clearance, and performance markers, yet its effects on equine locomotion remained unexplored until this investigation. The researchers evaluated gait parameters in horses exercised on a treadmill following single and consecutive CRET applications, measuring kinematic variables to determine whether the treatment produced acute changes and whether repeated sessions yielded cumulative effects. CRET application resulted in measurable modifications to gait pattern, with biomechanical changes evident during treadmill exercise; notably, consecutive CRET treatments over two days produced amplified responses compared to single-session exposure. These findings suggest potential value in integrating CRET into conditioning and rehabilitation programmes, particularly where enhanced movement efficiency or recovery from training stress is desired, though farriers and physiotherapists should note that treatment responses warrant individualised assessment and further investigation into optimal treatment frequency and timing relative to work schedules.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •CRET therapy may be a useful pre-exercise or training modality to enhance gait efficiency and exercise tolerance, with benefits increasing with repeated applications
- •Consider scheduling CRET treatments on consecutive days for horses in training or competition preparation to maximize cumulative performance benefits
- •CRET's effects on metabolic product clearance suggest potential value for post-exercise recovery protocols in performance horses
Key Findings
- •CRET application at 448 kHz increased superficial and deep tissue temperature in treated horses
- •CRET treatment resulted in enhanced hemoglobin saturation and faster elimination of metabolic and inflammatory products
- •Two consecutive days of CRET sessions demonstrated cumulative effects on locomotor parameters during treadmill exercise
- •CRET-treated horses showed modified gait patterns consistent with improved sport performance