our services, specialties & modalities
Proactive, personalized & precise—because every detail counts
At Sports Medicine Associates, we specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of performance-limiting conditions in equine athletes. Our services are available on-site at our Chester County facility or in the field, using advanced portable equipment and clinically proven methods.
our services & specialties
Lameness Evaluation and Diagnostic Imaging
Modalities include Digital Radiography, Digital Ultrasound, Upper Airway Endoscopy, and Gastroscopy.
Joint Injections and Therapeutic Procedures
Modalities Joint Injections (including Ultrasound-Guided Techniques), Regenerative Medicine, Stem Cell Therapy, PRP, IRAP, and ProStride.
Lameness Evaluation & Diagnostic Imaging
Digital Radiography
We use portable, high-resolution digital radiography units to obtain detailed diagnostic images in the field or at our facility. This allows for accurate assessment of bone and joint structures, enabling timely diagnosis and treatment planning.
Digital Ultrasound
Our portable digital ultrasound machines provide real-time, high-definition imaging of soft tissues, including tendons, ligaments, and joint capsules. These units are essential for diagnosing soft tissue injuries and for guiding therapeutic procedures.
Upper Airway Endoscopy
We perform upper airway examinations using portable endoscopy equipment, allowing us to visualize dynamic and static airway structures. This is essential for diagnosing conditions affecting airflow and respiratory performance in sport horses.
Gastroscopy
Using portable 3-meter gastroscopes, we can evaluate the esophagus, stomach, and proximal duodenum to diagnose gastric ulceration and other upper GI disorders. Gastroscopy is available in the clinic or in the field.
Joint Injections & Therapeutic Procedures
Joint Injections (Including Ultrasound-Guided Techniques)
We perform therapeutic intra-articular injections to manage inflammation, pain, and performance limitations. Ultrasound-guided injection techniques are used to accurately access cervical facet joints, lumbar facet joints, and sacroiliac joints. These precision-guided procedures are available in the field and in-clinic.
Regenerative Medicine
- Stem Cell Therapy: Mesenchymal stem cells are harvested from the tuber coxae under standing sedation and local anesthesia. Cells are sent to a specialized laboratory for culture and expansion before ultrasound-guided reimplantation into the injury site.
- Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP): Blood-derived PRP is processed on-site using a sterile centrifuge system. The platelet concentrate is then injected into soft tissue or joint lesions under ultrasound guidance to promote tissue regeneration and healing.
- IRAP (Interleukin-1 Receptor Antagonist Protein): Collected from the patient’s blood and incubated with specially designed beads, IRAP serum is frozen for use in serial joint injections. IRAP helps block IL-1 mediated inflammation in joints, slowing cartilage degradation and relieving pain.
- ProStride: We also offer ProStride APS (Autologous Protein Solution), a proprietary system that concentrates anti-inflammatory proteins and growth factors from the horse’s blood for targeted joint treatment.
Complementary & Modalities-Based Therapies
Modalities Acupuncture, Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), Class IV Laser Therapy, and Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES).
Pre-Purchase Evaluations
Evaluations include physical exam, lameness evaluation, flexion testing, imaging, and ancillary diagnostics as requested.
Complementary & Modalities-Based Therapies
Acupuncture
Veterinary acupuncture is performed by certified practitioners (Drs. Gassert and Boss) using traditional Chinese medicine principles. Fine needles are placed along the body’s meridian channels to restore energy flow ("Qi") and support musculoskeletal, neurological, and systemic function. Acupuncture is used adjunctively in the management of chronic pain, muscle tension, and performance issues.
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)
ESWT delivers focused high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate healing in bone, ligament, and tendon injuries. This non-invasive therapy is commonly used to promote healing of suspensory ligaments, proximal sesamoid injuries, and lumbar or pelvic soreness.
Class IV Laser Therapy
Class IV therapeutic laser therapy penetrates deep tissue to promote circulation, reduce inflammation, and accelerate healing at the cellular level. It is used in the management of soft tissue injuries and post-operative recovery.
Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)
FES activates muscle groups through controlled electrical impulses, enhancing neuromuscular re-education, reducing atrophy, and promoting balanced muscle development. This therapy is beneficial for horses recovering from neurologic injury or compensatory muscle patterns.
Pre-Purchase Evaluations
Our veterinarians provide thorough and objective pre-purchase evaluations tailored to the buyer’s needs. Evaluations include physical exam, lameness evaluation, neurologic exam, flexion testing, imaging, and ancillary diagnostics as requested.
We also offer:
- Radiograph review and consultation for international sales
- Collaborative review of veterinary reports for imported horses
- Evaluations structured around the buyer’s performance expectations and discipline-specific demands
“I have been a client of Sport Medicine Associates of Chester County for over 15 years. Dr. Keane’s expertise in sports physiology, along with his knowledge of a variety of performance horse disciplines is the reason we think nothing of driving three hours each way to have him evaluate our horses. He is prompt, professional – and you always leave with a diagnosis and plan for your horse. The customer service you receive from the entire SMACC staff is phenomenal!”
- Alan Lohman
owner of Lohman Stables, Poolesville, MD
"Dr. Keane and all the staff at Sports Medicine Associates have kept our horses sound, happy, and performing their best for the past 25 years. We can’t thank them enough."
- Carolyn Krome
K2 Show Stables and Persimmon Tree Farm
“I have come to depend on Taryn for their diagnostics and feel it has been a game-changer for my operation."
- Graham Motion
multiple graded stakes winning trainer, Owner Herringswell Stable.
our approach to veterinary medicine
Our approach is defined by clinical precision, collaborative care, and a deep understanding of the demands placed on the equine athlete.
We begin with a comprehensive assessment—whether it’s a subtle performance shift or an acute injury—using advanced diagnostics to identify the root cause, not just the symptoms. Our process is deliberate and data-driven, supported by decades of experience working with sport horses at the highest levels of competition.
We believe that successful outcomes come from clear communication and continuity of care.
That’s why we work closely with owners, trainers, farriers, and referring veterinarians to develop individualized treatment and management plans based on the horse’s discipline, career goals, and current condition.
