Horses With EPM
Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (EPM) is a neurological disease that affects the central nervous system in horses. Not only is EPM detrimental to the horse’s health, it can affect performance as well. When a horse is diagnosed with EPM, it leads to months of medications and recovery time, which can alter plans for training and shows. It is essential to have a veterinarian involved with the process to determine the best medication and plan for the horse.
What is EPM?
EPM stands for Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis. Protozoa are single-cell organisms that contain a nucleus and derive nutrition from the host. EPM is typically caused by the ingestion of the protozoan sarcocystis neurona from contaminated feed or water. The protozoa undergo multiplication in extra-neural tissues and then attack the central nervous system. The common signs of EPM include depression, atrophy, obscure lameness, ataxia and paresis, and personality change. Any of these conditions can impact everyday behavior and athletic performance in the arena.
The main definitive host in the United States is the opossum. The opossum obtains the protozoan by consuming tissue from an infected intermediate host. There is a brief prepatent period, then the infected sporocysts are passed in the feces, then ingested by the horse.
How MagnaWave Can Help
MagnaWave can help the horse with several sessions to relive some of the discomfort and inflammation associated with EPM. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, “Protozoa may be found in association with a mixed inflammatory cellular response.” PEMF can penetrate down to the cellular level making the membranes more permeable to stimulate movement across the membranes. This can help provide comfort for the horses.
“We have had success with this procedure several times now, with those (horses) we treated returning to competition”
Elaine S
We recommend waiting a full week after the medication cycle is complete before beginning sessions. Make sure to talk and consult with your veterinarian as some recommend sessions during the medication cycle to optimize the absorption and utilization of what is prescribed. Horses may never fully recover from the damage caused by EPM and can have lasting effects for the rest of their lives. MagnaWave may be a continuous plan to help the horses feel their best and get back to performance!
Talk With Us Today About How to Manage EPM with MagnaWave!
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