Case Study
Cold Saltwater AquaPacer Therapy for Reoccurring Cellulitis
Goldie, a seasoned 14-year-old barrel racing mare, had been struggling with reoccurring cellulitis — a painful and often debilitating condition causing leg swelling, heat, and reduced mobility. After multiple flare-ups and inconsistent recovery through traditional methods, her team turned to the Hudson AquaPacer with cold saltwater therapy to reduce inflammation and support healing.
Horse: Goldie
Breed: AQHA Mare
Age: 14 Years Old
Discipline: Barrel Racing
The Challange:
Background
Goldie, a seasoned 14-year-old barrel racing mare, had been struggling with reoccurring cellulitis — a painful and often debilitating condition causing leg swelling, heat, and reduced mobility. After multiple flare-ups and inconsistent recovery through traditional methods, her team turned to the Hudson AquaPacer with cold saltwater therapy to reduce inflammation and support healing.
AquaPacer Rehab Program
Treadmill Type: Hudson AquaPacer
Water Temperature: Cold Saltwater
Water Level: Mid-hock
Jet Use: Yes
Speed: 1.9 mph
Additional Use: Soaking/swelling management
Ramp-Up Period: 1 day to acclimate
Session Progression: Day 1: 10 minutes – Session 35: 20 minutes
Duration: 35 sessions over 2 months
The Solution:
Result
Goldie responded extremely well to the cold saltwater protocol. Within the first week, visible reduction in leg swelling was noted, and episodes of acute flare-ups decreased in frequency and severity. Her gait improved, her comfort level returned, and she was able to resume light barrel work with a much lower risk of re-injury or inflammation.
Her sessions not only helped address active inflammation but were also used preventively to manage and reduce the likelihood of recurrence — a game-changer for a horse with a history of chronic cellulitis.
The Result:
Why It Worked
Cellulitis is an inflammatory condition that benefits from a multi-layered therapeutic approach — and the AquaPacer delivered on all fronts:
- Cold water caused vasoconstriction, helping reduce inflammation and manage pain quickly and safely.
- Salt in the water provided natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial support, improving tissue integrity and promoting faster drainage.
- Consistent movement in cold saltwater stimulated lymphatic flow while avoiding overexertion — critical in cellulitis recovery.
- Mid-hock water depth allowed for localized treatment of the affected area without overloading joints or soft tissue.
