Thermal Imaging

Infrared Thermography, or thermal imaging, is a non-invasive monitoring tool that uses the very latest infrared imaging equipment and computer software to detect small differences in the horse's thermal condition and allows us to quickly and efficiently identify abnormal thermal patterns that may be related to injury or disease. We do not diagnose BUT by identifying abnormal patterns, often before other clinical signs are apparent, we hope the investigation can be instigated at an earlier stage. Early identification of injury or disease may prevent development of more severe conditions, and also allow monitoring of horses during the recovery process. Infrared Thermography also offers the trainer or rider the opportunity to monitor the effects of training before, during and after competition.

Previous research in human and equine fields has demonstrated that many injuries and physical conditions can be accurately detected using Infrared Thermography, even before any physical signs and symptoms are visibly apparent. Feeling the horse's legs for signs of heat is universal, however the hand can only detect heat where there is a 3-4° difference in temperature  from what is considered to be normal and by this stage the damage is more severe. Because Thermography measures minute changes in the thermal and neural conditions it allows for the vet to be called earlier to diagnose problems therefore preventing serious injury trauma and stress to the animal. Infrared Thermography also provides a unique way to monitor the horse's recovery from intense activity, injury and illness. 

Our objective

Our objective is find potential areas of inflammation that can be related to injury, stress, or disease faster by bringing awareness to things where symptoms may not yet be seen. We aim to empower owners, riders and trainer with knowledge and imaging so that we can prevent rather than react. The sooner you know, the sooner you and your vet can get your horse on the right track or even prevent injury.

Unlike Radiography and Scintigraphy, Infrared Thermographic Imaging does not involve radiation or radioactive materials and is therefore perfectly safe for the horse and the handler. In most cases the results of the Thermographs can be provided within 3-5 days  to enable vets, owners and riders to make prompt decisions on appropriate treatment.