Dorsal metacarpal disease affects 70 to 80% of thoroughbreds during the first year of training, causing lameness and interruption of training. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a non-pharmacological, non-invasive treatment that could shorten the recovery period and healing time. Thirteen thoroughbreds (24 limbs) diagnosed with dorsal metacarpal disease were treated and evaluated during a period of 30 days. The physical therapy consisted of cryotherapy, photon therapy, electrical stimulation and ultrasound therapy. There was prompt reduction in pain, local heat and degree of lameness. After 7 days of treatment, 71% of the cases showed no lameness. Radiography and ultrasonography were employed to evaluate healing. Results showed significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects with faster return to training. The physiotherapeutic protocol proposed favors its applicability in equine medicine.
dorsal metacarpal disease; horse; physical therapy
