COLD compression is well documented as the most effective way of treating inflammation, swelling and bruising of muscles, tendons and ligaments.

Optimum temperature reduction of the body after work and the dissipation of heat from tendons and joints has long been a challenge for horse owners. Equi-N-icE bandages, socks and rugs work by drawing heat away from the surface of the skin as opposed to driving cold in, as is the case with ice packs. A coolant containing a unique mixture of non-irritating, rapidly evaporating alcohols is applied to specialised rugs and bandages. The bandages are made from special 100% undyed cotton, which has its own natural elasticity, so compression can be applied during application. The skin is as much as 15 degrees cooler after the bandage or rug is removed.

Kay Russell, who developed Equi-N-icE, explains how the products can be useful for hunters: “The bandage works by giving instant access to cooling compression and support for two to three hours. This makes it ideal for any bruising or inflammation your horse might develop after a day’s hunting.

“The horse can be treated while being transported home and the quicker you start getting the inflammation and swelling down the quicker you are going to get the horse back to the job – Equi-N-icE bandages are a must for any first aid kit.”

REDUCING BODY TEMPERATURE

Russell continues, “Equi-N-icE bandages are also brilliant at keeping old or tired legs on the road as it reduces the swellings associated with hard working joints and concussion. The bandages can be applied and then left on overnight.

“The cooler rug is proven to reduce heart rate and temperature when the horse has a raised temperature due to overheating, so it is ideal after hard work, or for horses that travel badly and sweat up. The cooler can be used whilst walking off a horse, alleviating the worry of a horse tying up. Or if the horse has a leg injury and can’t be walked then the cooler will help steady heart rate and temperature.

“Equi-N-icE products are easy to use as there is no need for refrigeration. Once the coolant has dried out simply top-up the coolant on the bandages or the rug and reuse again. The newly developed ice socks are useful when treating knees and hocks. They can be used under boots or on their own when starting a horse back.

“Our products have been used all over the hunting and racing world, with Gold Cup-winning trainer Jessica Harrington using them and the Irish eventing team.”

For purchasing

details, please

contact:

Address: Pat Coakley Medical Ltd, E3&E4 Network Enterprise Park, Kilcoole, Co Wicklow

Tel: +353 1 201 8070/2/3

Fax: +353 1 201 8074

Email: sales@patcoakleymedical.ie