Evidence of Vascular Activation and Thermo-Adaptive Properties in Post-Exercise Recovery
Background: This study investigates the physiological effects of Incrediwear Equine Hindlimb Dry Socks on a horse’s right hock following work. Using infrared thermography, the aim was to assess changes in tissue temperature and vascular response under cool ambient conditions (13°C), focusing on the product's potential to enhance recovery, circulation, and thermoregulation.
Methods: Thermal imaging was performed before application (T0), every 15 minutes up to 1 hour during wear, and after sock removal. The right hock received the Incrediwear sock; the left served as a control. Imaging focused on three anatomical views: dorsal, caudal, and lateral/medial, with regions of interest including the saphenous vein, muscular tissues (e.g., tibialis cranialis, peroneus tertius), and tarsocrural joint.
Results:
- Dorsal View (Vascular Stimulation): A progressive temperature increase was observed in the treated limb, reaching +2.6°C at T+1h, with vascular activity (saphenous vein) showing a +2.9°C differential. Post-removal imaging revealed continued hyperthermia of up to +4.3°C, indicating a sustained vasodilatory response.
- Caudal View (Tendon and Bone Interface): The calcaneal region demonstrated a +3°C increase by T+30min. Although a mild decrease followed at T+1h, surface temperature remained elevated compared to baseline, reflecting residual thermal activation.
- Lateral/Medial View (Systemic Limb Effects): Thermal scans indicated increased vascular visibility extending from the hock down to the coronet, confirming widespread circulatory activation beyond the localized application site.
Conclusion: The Incrediwear Dry Socks applied on the Hocks induced significant exothermic responses and vascular stimulation in key joint and tendon regions, even in a cool ambient environment. Results suggest a thermo-adaptive mechanism, with the sock promoting targeted warming and increased microcirculation, facilitating faster recovery and improved tissue perfusion. These effects align with Doppler-based findings from prior studies and reinforce the product's value as a non-invasive recovery aid for equine athletes post-exercise.
Thermographic tests were performed by ThermoHorse Thermographie Équine (as an independent operator), following strict protocols. 2025.
Full study available upon request at hello@incrediwearequine.com