Bemer Blanket Review: Effects of Bemer Therapy for Horses
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The Bemer Blanket is one of the most recognizable therapy devices used on performance horses today. This electromagnetic blanket delivers a patented bio-electromagnetic energy regulation (BEMER) signal to the horse's body.
While the manufacturer claims this technology has several benefits for horses, the steep price point makes it easy for horse owners to remain skeptical.
I recently tried the Bemer Horse Set for 90 days after my trainer and veterinarian recommended it for my horse. After experiencing positive changes in my horse, I decided to research the science behind how Bemer therapy works.
While research studies suggest Bemer therapy can benefit some horses, there are certain situations where veterinarians caution against it. And if you don't have the budget to afford a Bemer blanket, alternative PEMF devices can produce similar effects.
Keep reading to learn more about how the Bemer Blanket affected my horse, the current research on BEMER technology, and how to determine if this device is the best option for your equine.
My Experience with the Bemer Horse Blanket
I was exposed to almost every equine therapy available as an international groom for high-performance dressage horses. But I hadn’t tried the Bemer Horse Set until my young horse returned to work after a long rehabilitation for an injury his 4yo year.
Rehabilitation
My young horse was born with not-so-perfect back X-rays. Armed with that knowledge, we developed a careful conditioning program to keep his back strong while he learned to carry a rider. His program kept him happy and confident in his work until a soft tissue injury in the field called for some extended time off.
I knew he'd need extra support during his rehabilitation when he came back to work. Working with my veterinarian, we developed a comprehensive management plan that included several alternative modalities, including PEMF, in addition to conventional treatments.
We moved to my trainer's barn when my horse was allowed to return to full training, where one of the working students owned a Bemer Horse Set. My trainer recommended trying it on my horse before riding to see if it made a difference in his back.
Results
My trainer frequently used the Bemer horse blanket on horses with back issues like mine. Some of these horses were top FEI horses, and she found that it significantly impacted their ability to move through their backs and decreased soreness after work.
There weren't world-changing differences under saddle for a little four-year-old gelding like mine just working on remembering how to steer after time off. However, I did notice that he carried less tension through his body while riding after a Bemer treatment.
The most noticeable change occurred while he was still in the crossties. It might not be objective, quantifiable results, but my horse genuinely seemed to relax and enjoy the Bemer blanket.
While wearing the blanket, my horse stood quietly and often showed signs of what bodyworkers call "releases" - yawning, chewing, etc. There was a definite difference in his mental state that benefited his focus and calmness before work.
But how exactly does the Bemer blanket work?
About BEMER Technology
BEMER stands for bio-electromagnetic energy regulation. This therapy is similar to PEMF, or pulsed electromagnetic field therapy.
PEMF Therapy
BEMER and PEMF use an electric current driven through a coiled wire to create a magnetic field. The magnetic field creates small electrical currents within the tissue, which can stimulate biological effects in the body's cells. [1]
What makes Bemer therapy unique?
BEMER technology uses a patented signal with a lower frequency and shorter phase duration than other PEMF devices.
Low frequency and shorter duration signals generate currents without heating the tissue, and Bemer claims this signal is more beneficial for microcirculation. [2]
Science Behind Bemer Devices
Research studies in humans found that this therapy can increase the diameter of microvessels, the number of capillaries, oxygen utilization, blood flow volume, and flow rate of red blood cells in the targeted tissue. [2]
These effects improve circulation in the treatment area, which leads to increased metabolic activity, nutrient exchange, and muscle relaxation. The increased nutrient exchange between the blood and tissues facilitates the cellular repair necessary for rehabilitation and recovery.
Research suggests that bio-electromagnetic energy regulation therapy can diminish nociception, which impacts pain mechanisms. But more research is needed to better understand the analgesic effects of BEMER and PEMF. [3]
Several studies demonstrate that electromagnetic field exposure upregulates signaling pathways involved in inflammation, which can contribute to pain. [3]
Researchers found PEMF devices increased nitric oxide production, a molecule that enhances circulation by stimulating vasodilation. But increased nitric oxide is also associated with reduced inflammatory gene expression and cell death associated with inflammation. [4]
Is Bemer FDA approved?
Bemer is an FDA-registered device. However, FDA registration is different from FDA approval. All medical devices sold in the US must have FDA registration.
To gain FDA approval, manufacturers must submit clinical testing data supporting a device's intended use. The BEMER blanket is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical condition.
Effects of Bemer Therapy for Horses
Bemer introduced therapy devices for horses after their initial success and research results in humans. However, few therapy devices marketed to horses have published peer-reviewed research supporting their use.
After searching through PubMed, I discovered the Bemer blanket is currently the only electromagnetic blanket available with published research studies supporting its use in horses.
Equine Research and Scientific Studies
Equine researchers at Colorado State University, my alma mater, recently conducted a study designed to assess the effects of the Bemer blanket on horses with back pain.
Eight performance horses objectively diagnosed with thoracolumbar epaxial muscle pain wore the Bemer blanket twice daily for 5-15 minutes for three consecutive days.
A veterinarian evaluated study horses for changes in spinal range of motion, muscle tone, biomechanics, and signs of inflammation. The researchers also used objective tests that measured muscle activity, pressure thresholds, and blood serum biomarkers. [5]
The study reported notable improvements in spinal flexibility and range of motion. Horses also had a higher tolerance for the pressure applied over bone and muscle after treatment, suggesting lower pain levels. [5]
These results suggest that the Bemer blanket could be an effective, medication-free solution for managing back pain in horses.
What does the Bemer Blanket do?
Human research shows that Bemer technology generates magnetic fields which create electric currents in the horse's tissue. These electrical currents increase the production of nitric oxide, which enhances microcirculation by stimulating vasodilation and increasing blood flow. [6]
Improved microcirculation increases oxygen and nutrient supply to nearby tissues. Nitric oxide also regulates inflammatory responses. Both of these effects may contribute to the pain reduction observed in study horses. [6]
Veterinary Opinions on Bemer
My veterinarian recommended using PEMF therapy and the Bemer blanket to keep my horse's back comfortable while he regained muscle condition. However, my vet also stressed that PEMF is a complementary therapy that can't replace conventional treatments.
The Bemer blanket worked best as daily support between treatments with other modalities, such as Functional Electrical Stimulation.
While more effective modalities are available for managing back pain, many horses enjoy Bemer therapy and tolerate PEMF better than other options.
However, horse owners should be wary of the analgesic effects of PEMF when using these therapies on horses with soft tissue problems.
My veterinarian found that Bemer can make horses feel too good and prevent owners from catching problems during rehabilitation. If your horse has a soft tissue injury, working too hard too soon can cause more damage.
Always consult your vet before trying a new therapy on your horse.
How to Use the Bemer Horse Set
The Bemer Horse Set comes with a blanket, two cuffs, and a charger. The blanket easily adjusts to fit many horses, and an elastic girth band keeps it secure.
We always used a scrim sheet under the Bemer blanket to keep it clean. The sheet doesn't interfere with the blanket's effect.
You can set the blanket for 5, 10, or 15-minute sessions with controller buttons. Start with shorter sessions and gradually work to longer ones to monitor how your horse reacts. Unlike some magnetic blankets, you can't change the intensity of different settings.
I noticed the most significant difference when using the Bemer blanket to warm up the horse's muscles before a ride. But I know some riders use it twice daily in pre and post-ride routines to help with recovery.
You can use the cuffs to apply the Bemer signal to the legs and other body parts. I only used the Bemer cuffs a few times, as my vet cautioned against using PEMF therapies near the original soft tissue injury in my horse's hoof.
Some equine therapists offer single sessions for horse owners to try the Bemer Horse Set before committing to buying. While this allows you to see how your horse reacts to the therapy, I've only noticed significant benefits when I'm able to use the blanket daily.
BEMER Alternatives for Horses
The Bemer horse blanket is an effective equine therapy tool for improving circulation, warming up before riding, and supporting recovery. However, the Bemer Horse Set is a significant investment.
Here are some alternative PEMF devices and therapy options if you are still deciding whether to buy a Bemer blanket.
PEMF Blankets for Horses
Several manufacturers offer PEMF blankets for horses. I have experience using models from Respond Systems, ActivoMed, and Sports Innovations. These blankets have a different PEMF signal than the Bemer blanket, and individual horses may respond better to a specific brand.
I have yet to use any of these blankets long enough to compare their effects to the Bemer. But few, if any, offer published research studies featuring their products.
Bemer vs MagnaWave for Horses
MagnaWave is a PEMF device that claims to produce a shorter but more powerful cellular contraction with higher current intensities and magnetic fields that offer deeper penetrations than Bemer devices.
Theoretically, this could result in greater effects from a single treatment when daily treatment isn't possible. However, there is limited research evaluating the impact of this PEMF device on horses. Other brands that offer similar devices include Pulse Equine.
My horse received regular sessions from a Magna Wave practitioner during his rehabilitation. While I can't quantify the results, he had a similar reaction to the MagnaWave as the Bemer, with increased signs of relaxation and release during treatment.
Assisi Loop
The Assisi Loop is a small, more affordable device that horse owners can use to deliver targeted pulsed electromagnetic field therapy to their horses at home. If you're interested in a Bemer blanket but not ready to make the plunge, consider trying the Assisi Loop.
This brand's electromagnetic signal helped stimulate cellular repair and reduce inflammation by upregulating nitric oxide in clinical studies. [7]
Assisi Animal Health has conducted several double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized studies to evaluate the efficacy of their device. Research shows that the Assisi Loop can support pain management and wound healing in animals. [7]
Before trying the Bemer blanket, my veterinarian recommended using the Assisi Loop to see how daily PEMF therapy affected my horse. This loop is a fraction of the cost of the Bemer device and is perfect for horse owners who want to try PEMF before making a big investment.
Compared to the Bemer, the Assisi loop can only treat a small area. However, its size makes it ideal for targeted treatment. These devices are also FDA-cleared for use in humans based on the positive results of their research studies.
Like many proven animal health products, the Assisi Loop is meant for use under the guidance of a veterinarian, so the company requests that you provide your vet’s contact info when you purchase the device.
The Verdict: Bemer Blanket Review
Using the Bemer blanket daily before riding significantly improved my horse's relaxation and comfort levels.
A substantial body of research supports using PEMF devices for pain management and recovery, and equine studies demonstrate that the Bemer signal is effective for horses. However, you should consult your veterinarian to determine if it's appropriate for your horse.
If you're not ready to invest in a Bemer blanket, the Assisi Loop is another research-backed device that allows horse owners to try PEMF at a fraction of the cost.
But if you want to invest in your horse's health and performance using an electromagnetic blanket, the Bemer blanket is a great option. You can learn more about the Bemer Horse Blanket here.
References
Hug, K. et al. Therapeutic effects of whole-body devices applying pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF): A systematic literature review. Bioelectromag. 2011.
Bohn, W. The technological development history and current significance of the “physical BEMER® vascular therapy” in medicine. J Complement Integr Med. 2013.
Gyulai, F. et al. BEMER Therapy Combined with Physiotherapy in Patients with Musculoskeletal Diseases: A Randomised, Controlled Double Blind Follow-Up Pilot Study. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2015.
Bohn, W. et al. The effects of the "physical BEMER® vascular therapy," a method for the physical stimulation of the vasomotion of precapillary microvessels in case of impaired microcirculation, on sleep, pain and quality of life of patients with different clinical pictures on the basis of three scientifically validated scales. J Complement Integr Med.
King, M. et al. Effects of a Bio-Electromagnetic Energy Regulation Blanket on Thoracolumbar Epaxial Muscle Pain in Horses. J Equine Vet Sci. 2022.
Dai, F. et al. Effects of BEMER® physical vascular therapy in horses under training. A randomized, controlled double blind study. Res Vet Sci. 2022.
Alvares, L. et al. Effect of Targeted Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy on Canine Postoperative Hemilaminectomy: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc. 2019.
