In 40 seconds
Suspensory ligament injuries — proximal, body, or branch — are notoriously stubborn in horses. The ligament has poor blood supply, contributing to slow healing. PEMF therapy improves microcirculation, reduces inflammation, and supports collagen synthesis in the ligament. Used widely in racing, dressage, and eventing yards as part of structured rehabilitation.
Quick facts
- Common types: Proximal, body, branch suspensory desmitis
- Heal time: 6–12 months typical
- PEMF role: Improves microcirculation, supports collagen
- Sessions: Daily for 2 weeks → 3× per week
- Always with: Vet-led controlled exercise programme
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
Best for proximal suspensory desmitis?
Yes — proximal lesions have particularly poor blood supply and respond well to PEMF's microcirculation effects.
Daily PEMF for suspensory?
Yes — initial loading phase typically daily for 2 weeks, then 3× per week.
Will it stop reinjury?
Healing biology improvement reduces but doesn't eliminate reinjury risk. Proper return-to-work is essential.
Looking for a PEMF clinic near you?
We list every credible PEMF therapy provider in the UK so you can find one near home.