Massage Pad Testing The Equilibrium Massage Pad was independently tested by Myerscough College and the findings showed: Increased Flexibility Results showed an overall improvement in back flexibility of approximately 46%. Stride Length The stride length of the treated horses increased over the period of the test by 12cms, whereas the control group showed little improvement. Promoting Relaxation Using a heart rate monitor, horses wearing the Equilibrium Massage Pad showed a decrease in heart rate when compared to the horses in the control group. Heat is a non-invasive, gentle, and generally a well-accepted form of therapy with many associated benefits. However, it is important that heat is delivered at the correct temperature, and for an appropriate amount of time to achieve the desired effects. If temperatures are not high enough, there is unlikely to be any significant effect to the tissue. If temperatures are too high, or are left in position too long, then tissue damage may occur. Heat Sensor Technology Our Heatsense Pad has therefore been thoroughly tested to ensure the heat is delivered in accordance with supporting research. A range of sources determined the following necessities for the Massage Pad Heatsense. - Heat is delivered between 40-45 degrees Celsius. - The target temperature is maintained for 15 minutes. - The heat should never exceed 45 degrees Celsius for an extended period of time. Due to the risks associated with heat, and the narrow target window for therapeutic heat, we developed an intelligent monitoring system that is constantly checking the temperature being delivered to the horse. This adjusts accordingly to ensure a repeatable session is experienced each time the pad is used. This is especially important in a product that is strapped to the horse, that they cannot easily move away from. As the temperature reaches the target of 42 degrees Celsius power to the heat pads will cut out. As the temperature drops again, power to the heat pads will resume. This process continues to ensure the horse receives 15 minutes at the target temperature. This monitoring system will also help prevent the pad heating tissue that is already hot, whether that is due to ambient temperatures, or if the horse has just been exercised. The left and right side of the pad also work independently of each other, meaning one side could be receiving heat, even if the other is too warm.