SPORTS MEDICINE

Therapeutic Shoeing
Understanding the importance of the old saying among horsemen, "no foot, no horse",. Dr. Martinez completed a farrier course in 1991 under the instruction of Scott Simpson. He received entry-level certification from the American Farriers Association. and this training helps him understand the difficulties encountered by farriers. The use of digital radiography during a farrier appointment allows the team to optimize trimming and shoeing for soundness and performance. Conditions in which this team approach is valuable include the foundered horse, long toe/low heel foot conformation and mediolateral imbalance (uneven foot landing).
Regenerative Medicine
Regenerative medicine or biologic therapies are treatment modalities in which blood is collected from the horse to concentrate anti-inflammatory, regenerative proteins and cells that, when injected into an abnormal joint, tendon, or ligament, enhance healing and/or decrease joint inflammation. Some of these therapies, such as IRAP and ProStride (Autologous Condition Serum), can be more potent than corticosteroids without the risk of laminitis. Other advantages can include longer duration of soundness and shorter withdrawal time before competing.
We offer IRAP, ProStride and Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) at our clinic; the latter two are same-day procedure collections and injections.
Shockwave Therapy
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (E.S.T.) is a treatment modality in which high-energy sound waves are electrically produced and directed into an injured area through a probe contacting the skin. Research has shown that E.S.T. stimulates the formation of new blood vessels (neovascularization) and growth factors in the treated area, as well as increases bone formation and healing of non-union fractures. The release of specific proteins (cytokines) has been measured and proven to have a response at the cellular level. This cellular response may one day allow for regulatory authorities to measure biomarkers for up to three weeks post-treatment. A brief period of analgesia or decreased pain for up to 4 days has been observed, prompting FEI and racing regulatory authorities to not allow EST for five days prior to competition.
Our focused type units allow treatment of superficial and deep structures and EST can be particularly helpful in managing tendon and ligament injuries (including proximal suspensory), "splints," and sore back. We generally perform three treatments two weeks apart. In addition, our new unit is portable, allowing on-the-farm treatment.
Mesotherapy
Mesotherapy was introduced in France in 1964 to manage chronic painful conditions. Mesotherapy uses multiple intradermal (into the skin) injections along the back or neck to manage and mitigate chronic pain. The mechanism of action is believed to be associated with the gate-control principle and can be combined with other forms of treatment, such as shockwave therapy, chiropractic, and physiotherapy. The procedure is performed on the farm under sedation, and the horse can return to light work after three days.