After a tough training session or long show weekend, your horse’s muscles can feel tired, tight, or a little sore, just like any athlete’s. While rest, stretching, and massage are essentials in equine care, many riders and veterinarians now add red light therapy to their horses’ wellness routines.
This non-invasive, science-backed therapy promotes circulation, eases muscle tension, and speeds recovery. Whether you’re managing an older horse, a performance athlete, or just want to improve overall comfort, red light therapy can be a game-changer.
What Is Red Light Therapy for Horses?
Red light therapy, also called photobiomodulation, is a treatment that uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to stimulate the body's natural healing processes. The light penetrates deep into the horse’s tissue - without heat or pain -to activate cellular processes that improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and support repair.
It’s the same technology used in human sports medicine and physical therapy, adapted for equine use. Horses benefit from this therapy because it helps their large muscles, joints, and tendons recover more efficiently after exercise or injury.
How Red Light Therapy Works
At a cellular level, red light therapy works by targeting the mitochondria (often called the “powerhouse” of the cell) to increase energy production. This energy, known as ATP (adenosine triphosphate), fuels the body’s natural healing functions.
Here’s what happens during a typical session:
- Red and near-infrared wavelengths penetrate the skin and muscle tissue.
- These wavelengths trigger cellular energy production, promoting repair and regeneration.
- Increased circulation brings oxygen and nutrients to sore or inflamed areas.
- Inflammation and pain decrease as tissue heals and relaxes.
Unlike heat therapy, red light therapy doesn’t warm the tissue or irritate. It’s completely non-invasive and safe for daily use, even on sensitive areas.
Benefits of Red Light Therapy for Horses
Red light therapy provides benefits for every horse, including stimulating cellular repair, reducing inflammation, aiding pain relief, and increasing blood flow. Here’s what makes it so effective:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Improved Circulation | Stimulates blood flow to help deliver oxygen and nutrients where they’re needed most. |
| Reduced Inflammation | Helps relieve swelling in joints, tendons, and muscles. |
| Accelerated Healing | Supports recovery from soft-tissue injuries, bruising, and strains. |
| Pain Relief | Naturally reduces discomfort by stimulating endorphin release. |
| Muscle Relaxation | Loosens tight muscles after exercise or trailering. |
| Performance Support | Keeps muscles flexible, balanced, and ready for consistent work. |
Pro Tip: Many riders use red light therapy before exercise to loosen muscles and again afterward to help with recovery.
When to Use Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy is versatile enough for daily use or targeted recovery.
Use before riding to:
- Warm up muscles and increase flexibility.
- Prepare joints and tendons for movement.
Use after riding to:
- Reduce soreness and inflammation.
- Help muscles recover faster and prevent stiffness.
Additional uses include:
- During rehabilitation after an injury or surgery.
- To relieve soreness after trailering or long turnout days.
- As part of a wellness routine for senior horses or those with chronic conditions.
Because it’s gentle and non-invasive, red light therapy can be used year-round and paired with other treatments, such as magnetic or ceramic therapy, for complete recovery support.
Is Red Light Therapy Safe for Horses?
Yes, red light therapy is safe, painless, and completely non-invasive. The emitted light is low-intensity so that it won’t burn or irritate the skin. Most horses find it relaxing, and some even doze off during treatment sessions.
Follow manufacturer instructions for the best results. Sessions usually last 5–20 minutes per area, depending on the product and purpose. Always make sure your horse’s coat is clean and dry before applying any therapy pads or wraps.
If your horse has a medical condition or open wound, consult your veterinarian before beginning any new therapy.
Recommended Schneiders Red Light Therapy Products
Schneiders’ red light therapy collection makes it easy to deliver targeted relief and support recovery, whether you’re addressing muscle soreness and stiffness or maintaining daily performance. Each piece is designed to provide professional-grade therapy in a convenient, horse-friendly format.
Schneiders EquiCare® LED Therapy Red Light Equine Kit
For horses that need full-body coverage, this complete red light therapy kit offers versatility and power. The kit includes multiple wrap sizes for the back, shoulders, hips, or legs, and bell boots for maximum results.
Best For: Comprehensive therapy and recovery sessions for horses in training, competition, or rehab programs
Schneiders EquiCare® LED Therapy Red Light Neck Wrap for Horses
Neck tension and stiffness are common in performance horses, especially those working in collection or under saddle frequently. This red light neck wrap targets key muscles along the crest and poll to improve flexibility and comfort.
Best For: Horses that carry tension in their neck and poll, or those recovering from muscle strain in the topline.
Schneiders EquiCare® LED Therapy Red Light Back and Hip Pad
This back and hip pad delivers focused therapy to two of the most important muscle groups for movement and performance. It’s ideal for loosening tight backs, improving hind-end engagement, and supporting overall mobility.
Best For: Horses that work in collection, jump regularly, or experience tightness across the topline and hindquarters.
Want to see more? Check out our 7 Must-Have Red Light Therapy Devices for Horse Owners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does red light therapy really work for horses?
Yes. Red light therapy is backed by studies showing it improves circulation and promotes tissue repair. Many trainers and veterinarians use it for both performance horses and those recovering from injury.
Q: How often should I use red light therapy?
For general wellness, 3–4 sessions per week are ideal. For targeted recovery or injury rehab, daily sessions can help accelerate healing.
Q: Can I use red light therapy with other treatments?
Absolutely. Red light therapy pairs well with magnetic, ceramic, or cold therapies. Together, these support faster healing and full-body comfort.
Q: How soon will I notice results?
Many horses show improvement in flexibility and relaxation after just a few sessions. Consistent use provides the best long-term benefits.
Red light therapy is one of the easiest, most effective ways to support your horse’s recovery, comfort, and performance. From post-workout soreness to chronic stiffness, this safe, proven therapy helps your horse feel their best without drugs or downtime.
Whether you’re caring for a seasoned athlete or a beloved companion, Schneiders offers red light therapy products designed to make recovery simple and effective.
