At Newmarket Equine Physiotherapy, we combine advanced science with hands‑on expertise to deliver comprehensive rehabilitation for equine athletes. Each therapy is carefully selected to address specific needs — from pain relief and injury recovery to performance optimisation and long‑term soundness.
Our Core Modalities
Our Core Modalities
- Sports Massage & Stretching – keeps muscles supple, prevents injury, and supports agility and stride efficiency.
- Electrotherapy (H‑Wave, TENS, Microcurrent) – provides pain relief, improves circulation, and accelerates soft‑tissue healing.
- Therapeutic Ultrasound – penetrates deeply to reduce inflammation, stimulate repair, and enhance flexibility.
- K‑Laser Therapy (Class 4 Dynamic Laser) – delivers targeted wavelengths for pain relief, faster healing, and improved cellular energy.
- Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF) – restores cellular balance, reduces swelling, and supports fracture and orthopaedic recovery.
- Kinesio Taping – supports joints and muscles without restricting movement, reducing pain, swelling, and recovery times.
Sports Massage & Stretching
Racehorses are elite athletes. Like human competitors, they can suffer from muscular stiffness, strains and injuries — all of which respond well to targeted sports massage.
Through skilled palpation, we assess muscle condition and identify areas of tension or imbalance. Massage works by manipulating soft tissue to encourage drainage, relieve pain, reduce inflammation and promote relaxation. It can benefit tight or contracted muscles, tendons and ligaments, as well as chronic conditions such as scar tissue and oedema.
Massage also helps loosen dense connective tissue, supports circulation and lymphatic flow, and has a calming effect on the nervous system. Because subtle changes in muscle tone are often the earliest signs of injury, regular manual therapy is a powerful tool for prevention — keeping tissues mobile and reducing the risk of fibre damage.
We combine massage with stretching exercises to maintain a healthy range of motion. Speed alone is not enough for a racehorse: agility and stride turnover are equally vital. Elasticity in muscles, tendons and ligaments allows for quicker, more controlled movement and helps prevent pulls or strains. Stretching increases tolerance within the muscles and connective tissue, supporting both peak performance and long‑term soundness.
Racehorses are elite athletes. Like human competitors, they can suffer from muscular stiffness, strains and injuries — all of which respond well to targeted sports massage.
Through skilled palpation, we assess muscle condition and identify areas of tension or imbalance. Massage works by manipulating soft tissue to encourage drainage, relieve pain, reduce inflammation and promote relaxation. It can benefit tight or contracted muscles, tendons and ligaments, as well as chronic conditions such as scar tissue and oedema.
Massage also helps loosen dense connective tissue, supports circulation and lymphatic flow, and has a calming effect on the nervous system. Because subtle changes in muscle tone are often the earliest signs of injury, regular manual therapy is a powerful tool for prevention — keeping tissues mobile and reducing the risk of fibre damage.
We combine massage with stretching exercises to maintain a healthy range of motion. Speed alone is not enough for a racehorse: agility and stride turnover are equally vital. Elasticity in muscles, tendons and ligaments allows for quicker, more controlled movement and helps prevent pulls or strains. Stretching increases tolerance within the muscles and connective tissue, supporting both peak performance and long‑term soundness.
Champion Filly Snow Fairy and the mighty Red Cadeaux doing their daily stretching routine post exercise
H‑Wave Therapy
The H‑Wave is a unique system combining muscular and neurological stimulation. Unlike traditional square or diamond waveforms, its bipolar exponential decaying signal penetrates deeply yet remains comfortable, with minimal dermal resistance and no muscle fatigue.
Two modes of action:
- 2Hz Muscle Pump – Creates gentle contractions that boost oxygenated blood flow and stimulate lymphatic drainage. This accelerates the removal of pain‑producing chemicals and toxins, reduces oedema, and promotes healing.
- 60Hz Analgesia – Provides deep pain relief by blocking pain signals and stimulating natural endorphin release. This mode is especially effective in breaking the “vicious cycle of pain” before therapeutic work begins.
TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)
TENS uses low‑voltage currents to stimulate nerves and block pain signals from reaching the brain.
- TENS vs EMS: TENS targets nerves for pain relief, while EMS mimics natural nerve impulses to contract muscles. Both deliver controlled electrical impulses to aid recovery.
Microcurrent Therapy (MENS)
Microcurrent Electrical Neuromuscular Stimulation (MENS) works at the cellular level. It is the only electrotherapy capable of penetrating the cell wall, helping restore normal cellular activity and resolve soft‑tissue problems.
Treating a girth pinch
Therapeutic Ultrasound
Therapeutic ultrasound is distinct from diagnostic ultrasound. While diagnostic ultrasound is used to obtain images without producing biological effects, therapeutic ultrasound is designed to actively influence tissues and promote healing.
How it Works
Ultrasound waves are mechanical pressure waves that travel in a straight line with minimal divergence, giving them strong penetrating power.
Clinical Benefits
Therapeutic ultrasound is widely used in physiotherapy to:
Therapeutic ultrasound is distinct from diagnostic ultrasound. While diagnostic ultrasound is used to obtain images without producing biological effects, therapeutic ultrasound is designed to actively influence tissues and promote healing.
- Frequencies: Diagnostic units operate between 1–10 MHz, whereas therapeutic units range from 0.8–3 MHz. Around 1 MHz is ideal for absorption in body tissues.
- Depth & Effect: Ultrasound penetrates deeply enough to reach damaged tissues, raising tissue temperature by up to 5°C at depths of around 5 cm — without heating the skin surface.
How it Works
Ultrasound waves are mechanical pressure waves that travel in a straight line with minimal divergence, giving them strong penetrating power.
- Each wave cycle consists of compression (particles densely packed) and rarefaction (particles spread apart).
- These longitudinal waves move “to and fro” through tissue, much like a slinky toy in motion.
- Unlike electromagnetic waves, ultrasound requires a medium — in therapy, a conductive gel — to transmit energy effectively.
Clinical Benefits
Therapeutic ultrasound is widely used in physiotherapy to:
- Treat soft‑tissue injuries and inflammation
- Improve circulation and reduce swelling
- Stimulate tissue repair and regeneration
- Provide deep warming to support flexibility and healing
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K‑Laser Therapy - Class 4 Dynamic Laser
Gráinne is a Certified K‑Laser Practitioner. The K‑Laser is a Class 4 dynamic therapy that uses multiple pulse frequencies to deliver a combination of pain relief, inflammation reduction, tissue biostimulation, and antimicrobial effects. By accelerating cellular energy production, it helps tissues absorb nutrients more efficiently and eliminate waste, speeding up the repair of tendons, ligaments, and muscles.
How It WorksK‑Laser therapy promotes vasodilation and activates lymphatic drainage, reducing swelling and improving circulation. Different wavelengths penetrate to varying depths and target specific structures:
- 660 nm – absorbed by melanin in the skin; supports wound healing and scar tissue regulation, while inhibiting bacterial growth.
- 800 nm – optimally absorbed by enzymes such as Cytochrome C oxidase, boosting ATP production and cellular energy.
- 905 nm – absorbed by haemoglobin, water, and melanin; increases oxygen availability to cells, accelerating natural healing.
- 970 nm – absorbed by blood; transforms energy into localised heat, improving microcirculation and oxygen delivery.
Clinical Benefits
K‑Laser therapy is widely used in both physiotherapy and veterinary rehabilitation, with proven protocols for a range of conditions:
- Anti‑inflammatory: reduces oedema by promoting vasodilation and lymphatic drainage.
- Analgesic: raises pain thresholds, reduces pain signal transmission, and stimulates endorphin release.
- Improved vascular activity: accelerates capillary formation, speeds wound healing, and reduces tissue damage.
- Enhanced nerve function: supports recovery from nerve injuries and neuropathic conditions.
- Boosted metabolism: increases enzyme activity for oxygen transport, aiding cell repair and regeneration.
- Soft‑tissue healing: accelerates recovery of wounds, ulcers, and mucositis through biostimulation.
Benefits at a Glance
- Rapid pain relief and reduced inflammation
- Faster healing of tendons, ligaments, muscles, and soft tissue
- Improved circulation and oxygen delivery
- Enhanced nerve recovery and function
- Increased cellular energy (ATP production)
- Effective support for wound and scar tissue healing
Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy
Biomag 2 Therapy Unit
The Biomag 2 system was developed by internationally recognised Chartered Scientist and Clinical Engineer Dr David Somerville, incorporating the latest research in pulsed magnetic field therapy and phototherapy.
How It WorksPulsed electromagnetic fields induce tiny electrical currents within tissues. These currents help restore normal cellular potentials, which may have been reduced by injury or disease. By re‑establishing near‑normal voltages, cells can resume healthy nutrient exchange and waste removal, supporting repair and recovery.
Clinical Applications
Biomag therapy can be used for:
Practical Advantages
Benefits at a Glance
Biomag 2 Therapy Unit
The Biomag 2 system was developed by internationally recognised Chartered Scientist and Clinical Engineer Dr David Somerville, incorporating the latest research in pulsed magnetic field therapy and phototherapy.
How It WorksPulsed electromagnetic fields induce tiny electrical currents within tissues. These currents help restore normal cellular potentials, which may have been reduced by injury or disease. By re‑establishing near‑normal voltages, cells can resume healthy nutrient exchange and waste removal, supporting repair and recovery.
Clinical Applications
Biomag therapy can be used for:
- Pain management
- Reduction of swelling, oedema, and bruising
- Sports therapy and muscle toning
- Orthopaedics, including fracture support
Practical Advantages
- Safe with implants: Metal implants do not interfere with effectiveness.
- Works through bandages/casts: Pulsating magnetic fields penetrate without obstruction, allowing treatment even with dressings in place.
- Combination therapy: Can be used alongside phototherapy for enhanced results.
Benefits at a Glance
- Non‑invasive pain relief
- Reduced swelling and faster recovery from injury
- Supports fracture healing and orthopaedic care
- Safe with implants, casts, and bandages
- Evidence‑based protocols from human and veterinary research
EQUINE KINESIO TAPING
Kinesio Taping is a rehabilitative technique designed to support joints and muscles without restricting natural movement. The elastic tape gently lifts the skin, creating space that assists with lymphatic drainage and circulation.
How It Helps
- Provides targeted support while maintaining full range of motion
- Reduces pain and discomfort from injury or strain
- Minimises bruising and swelling
- Assists in the management of lymphedema
- Speeds up recovery times following sports injuries
Benefits at a Glance
- Joint and muscle support without restriction
- Pain reduction and improved comfort
- Faster recovery from sports injuries
- Reduced bruising, swelling, and lymphedema
- Effective for both human and equine athletes
SUREFOOT Stability PadsWhat are Equine SUREFOOT Pads?
SUREFOOT Pads are innovative equine stability tools designed to help horses improve balance, posture, stance, movement, and even behaviour. They can be used before or after exercise, during training sessions to enhance performance, or in rehabilitation programmes for horses recovering from injury or restricted movement. By resetting proprioceptors, the pads encourage horses to re‑establish normal, healthy patterns of movement.
Launched in 2016 after two years of development, the Official SUREFOOT Stability Pad programme is now widely recognised. Gráinne completed the SUREFOOT Practitioner Program through IRVAP at the Newmarket Horseracing Museum and Retraining of Racehorses Centre at Palace House.
Pad Design
- Four densities – each offering different sensations and responses.
- Two shapes – rectangular and angled, sized at 25cm x 30cm x 5cm to comfortably support a horse’s hoof.
- Dual surfaces – a coloured side that distributes weight evenly, and a direct side that yields to hoof contact.
- Impression Pad – retains the imprint of the hoof temporarily, allowing therapists to assess how weight is borne across different structures.
Benefits at a Glance
- Improves balance, posture, and stance
- Enhances performance during training
- Supports rehabilitation and recovery from injury
- Resets proprioception for healthier movement patterns
- Provides valuable insight into hoof loading and weight distribution
Rehabilitation: Long‑Reining, Polework & Prescriptive ExercisesTargeted exercise is a cornerstone of equine rehabilitation. Long‑reining, polework, and prescriptive exercise programmes are designed to restore strength, symmetry, and confidence in horses recovering from injury or returning to training.
Long‑ReiningLong‑reining allows controlled, progressive exercise without the weight of a rider. It encourages correct posture, straightness, and engagement of the hindquarters while maintaining a safe distance for horses in early rehabilitation.
PoleworkPolework exercises improve coordination, stride regulation, and proprioception. By challenging the horse to lift and place limbs accurately, polework strengthens muscles, enhances balance, and supports joint mobility. It is particularly effective for rebuilding core stability and stride elasticity.
Prescriptive ExercisesEvery rehabilitation plan is tailored to the individual horse. Prescriptive exercises may include:
- Core strengthening routines
- Balance and symmetry drills
- Controlled stretching and mobilisation
- Progressive conditioning for return to work
Benefits at a Glance
- Safe, progressive return to exercise
- Improved posture, balance, and coordination
- Enhanced core strength and stride elasticity
- Reduced risk of re‑injury through controlled conditioning
- Tailored programmes for individual rehabilitation needs
Hydrotherapy ConsultancySPA • Water Treadmill • Swimming • High‑Speed Treadmill
With extensive experience managing advanced equine hydrotherapy facilities, Gráinne provides specialist consultancy on the safe and effective use of hydrotherapy equipment. Her guidance ensures that each system is operated to the highest standards of welfare, performance, and compliance.
Areas of Expertise - Equine SPA – Cold salt‑water therapy to reduce inflammation, treat limb injuries, and support recovery.
- Water Treadmill – Controlled exercise in water to improve stride symmetry, build strength, and aid rehabilitation.
- Swimming Pools – Full‑body conditioning and cardiovascular training, carefully managed for safety and recovery.
- High‑Speed Treadmills – Advanced conditioning and fitness assessment, with protocols to minimise risk and optimise performance.
What Consultancy Provides - Facility design and operational advice
- Staff training and safety protocols
- Evidence‑based rehabilitation programmes
- Integration of hydrotherapy into wider conditioning and veterinary care
- Compliance with welfare and health & safety standards
Benefits at a Glance - Safe, effective use of hydrotherapy equipment
- Faster recovery from injury and reduced inflammation
- Improved conditioning, stride symmetry, and cardiovascular fitness
- Tailored programmes for rehabilitation and performance horses
- Assurance of best practice and welfare compliance
