Post-Workout Recovery: Infrared Therapy for Riders, Horses, and Active Pets
May 17,2025 | ClinicPBM
Post-Workout Recovery: Infrared Therapy for Riders, Horses, and Active Pet
1. Introduction
Athletes and animal caregivers increasingly seek advanced recovery methods beyond traditional rest or massage. Photobiomodulation (red and infrared light therapy) has gained traction for accelerating healing and reducing soreness. Used by equestrians, equine therapists, and veterinarians, infrared (IR) therapy—including near-infrared (NIR) and far-infrared (FIR)—shows promise in improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and speeding tissue repair across species. A 2023 veterinary review notes its frequent use in animals for musculoskeletal injuries and pain relief. This article explores the science, applications, and evidence behind IR therapies for human riders, horses, and active pets.
2. Types of Infrared Therapy
2.1 Red Light (∼630–700 nm) and Near-Infrared (NIR, ∼800–900 nm)
- Mechanism: Penetrates skin to stimulate cellular biochemistry (photobiomodulation). Photons activate mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase, boosting ATP production and releasing nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species. This enhances energy metabolism, reduces inflammation, and accelerates tissue repair.
- Applications:
- Red light (shallow penetration, ~millimeters) aids surface healing (wounds, skin) in small animals.
- NIR (deeper penetration, ~centimeters) targets deep muscle soreness, joint inflammation, and tendon injuries in larger animals and humans.
2.2 Far-Infrared (FIR, >1000 nm)
- Mechanism: Primarily thermal, absorbed by water molecules to raise tissue temperature and improve circulation. Unlike NIR, FIR’s effects are not photochemical.
- Applications:
- Used in saunas, heating pads, or equine “solariums” to relax muscles, enhance blood flow, and relieve joint stiffness.
- A 2023 study showed 20-minute post-exercise FIR sauna sessions reduced next-day muscle soreness in human athletes.
3. Scientific Evidence
3.1 Human Athletes
- Key Studies:
- Chen et al. (2023): FIR lamp treatment reduced muscle soreness by 55–60% and accelerated strength recovery in women after eccentric exercise. Plasma markers of muscle damage (creatine kinase) were 45–89% lower in treated groups.
- Tseng et al. (2024): Elite female soccer players receiving 60-minute FIR sessions post-simulated match showed minimal leg power loss (-1% vs. -11% in placebo) and lower CK levels (172 vs. 466 IU/L).
- Ahokas et al. (2023): Infrared sauna use blunted performance decline and halved next-day soreness in basketball players.
- Conclusion: IR therapies attenuate strength loss, reduce inflammation, and speed neuromuscular recovery in humans.
3.2 Horses
- Key Findings:
- Harrison (2024) Case Study: FIR blanket pre-exercise improved muscle force symmetry and balance in three athletic horses.
- Zielińska et al. (2023): High-intensity NIR laser reduced back pain and increased skin temperature (+2.5°C) in racehorses.
- Michanek (2020): Pulsed red/NIR LED light did not accelerate equine wound healing; treated wounds healed slower than controls.
- Challenges: Limited high-quality studies; a 2023 review notes mixed results for laser/LED therapies in horses, though many trainers use IR to warm tissues and enhance circulation.
3.3 Pets (Dogs/Cats)
- Key Studies:
- Looney et al. (2018): Dogs with elbow osteoarthritis treated with NIR laser (10–20 J/cm²) reduced NSAID use; 9/11 dogs improved lameness and pain scores.
- Alves et al. (2022): Class-IV laser therapy reduced pain and improved gait in dogs with hip osteoarthritis, with benefits lasting up to 90 days.
- Applications: Near-IR laser (810–980 nm) at 10–20 J/cm², applied 2–3 times weekly, alleviates chronic pain in arthritis and supports injury recovery.
4. Real-World Applications
4.1 For Riders
- Usage: Post-ride infrared sauna sessions (10–20 minutes) or targeted NIR/LED pads on sore muscles (e.g., back, legs).
- Safety: Maintain 10–15 inch distance from lamps, protect eyes, and hydrate. Combine with stretching.
4.2 For Horses
- Protocols: 20–30-minute FIR blanket sessions post-exercise, targeting back and hindquarters. Avoid direct skin contact to prevent burns; pair with massage.
- Caution: IR complements veterinary care but does not replace it. Monitor skin temperature post-treatment.
4.3 For Pets
- Home Use: Vet-approved NIR laser devices (1–5 minutes per area, 2–3 times weekly) for arthritic joints. Keep lasers away from eyes; follow dosage guidelines.
- Combination Therapy: Pair with rest, joint supplements, and physical therapy for acute injuries (e.g., sprains).
5. Conclusion
Infrared therapy offers tangible post-workout recovery benefits for humans and animals, reducing pain, inflammation, and accelerating healing. While equine research is limited, human and pet studies show consistent promise. Always consult professionals, follow evidence-based protocols, and use IR as part of a holistic recovery plan (including rest, nutrition, and hydration). With careful application, infrared and photobiomodulation therapies can help riders, horses, and active pets return to peak performance safely and efficiently.
Key Sources:Chen et al. (2023), Tseng et al. (2024), Looney et al. (2018), Alves et al. (2022), Millis & Bergh (2023), Ahokas et al. (2023), Zielińska et al. (2023), Michanek et al. (2020).
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