In 40 seconds
Hock arthritis (bone spavin, distal hock pain) is one of the most common causes of poor performance in older sport horses. Standard management includes intra-articular medication, oral joint supplements, controlled exercise, and farriery. PEMF therapy reduces joint inflammation and supports cartilage cell function — increasingly used in dressage, showjumping, and eventing yards.
Quick facts
- Common in: Older sport horses
- Treatments: Joint injections, oral supplements, exercise, farriery
- PEMF role: Reduces joint inflammation, supports cartilage
- Sessions: 3× per week, ongoing maintenance
- Always with: Vet-led management
Practical guidance
See FAQ below for specific scenarios.
Contraindications
Hard exclusions — do not have PEMF if any apply:
- Pacemaker, implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), or any cardiac electronic device
- Cochlear implant or other implanted electronic hearing device
- Spinal cord stimulator, deep-brain stimulator, vagus nerve stimulator
- Intrathecal pump or implanted drug pump
- Insulin pump (continuous glucose monitors are usually fine — confirm with the clinic)
- Active infection at the treatment site
- Pregnancy — when treatment would be over the abdomen, lumbar spine, or pelvis
Discuss with your GP or specialist before booking if any apply:
- Active malignancy or recent cancer history (oncologist clearance required)
- History of seizures or epilepsy
- Multiple sclerosis or other neurological condition under specialist care
- Anticoagulant therapy (PEMF itself does not thin blood, but bruising risk if local circulation is already compromised)
- Children under 14 (most UK clinics will not treat under-18s without paediatric specialist input)
- Recent surgery within the last 14 days at the treatment site (confirm with surgeon)
NOT contraindications — these are commonly misunderstood:
- Plates, rods, screws and other passive metal orthopaedic hardware
- Dental implants and dental crowns
- Joint replacements (hip, knee, shoulder)
- IUDs (copper or hormonal)
- Tattoos and piercings (jewellery should be removed for the session)
Specific to this condition: pacemakers, defibrillators, cochlear implants, insulin pumps, electronic implants; active malignancy without specialist clearance; pregnancy (over the abdomen); active infection; epilepsy without GP clearance.
Frequently asked questions
Will PEMF avoid hock injections?
Sometimes — for mild cases combined with PEMF and good management. Severe cases still benefit from injections.
Best applicator?
Equine wrap directly over the hock joint.
Compatible with joint injections?
Yes — PEMF can be used alongside injection therapy.
Looking for a PEMF clinic near you?
We list every credible PEMF therapy provider in the UK so you can find one near home.