Thermotherapy, also known as heat therapy, works by applying heat to an affected area to treat tissues in the body. Its primary use is to help relaxation, reduce joint stiffness, stimulate blood flow to the area (by vasodilation), increases metabolic rate, tissue extensibility and oxygen uptake to enhance tissue healing. It also relaxes spasmodic muscles, causing pain relief.

 

Heat is also beneficial for warming muscles and aiding connective tissue mobility before exercise or stretching. For example, hot water bottles on the back of your horse before riding warms up the muscles and tissue, making them more supple, increasing the range of motion and improving their performance.