Turca’s Story
When Turca, a 16‑year‑old polo horse, began struggling to perform, Arthrex ACP® therapy helped restore her strength and keep her competing at a high level.
Turca had been a trusted member of Cornell University’s polo program for years, known for her responsiveness and precision on the field. But over time, subtle changes in her movement began to impact her performance.
A Decline in Performance
“When I became head coach, Turca was at risk of being cut from varsity due to her poor performance,” said Branden Van Loon, who served as head coach of the Cornell polo team at the time of her treatment. “She was having difficulty holding her lead behind and struggled to pick up her left lead, and she really just lacked ‘run.’”
Like many equine athletes, Turca was experiencing the effects of wear and tear on her joints. These changes can develop gradually and may show up as decreased performance, stiffness, or reluctance to move freely.
Veterinary evaluation confirmed that her discomfort was likely affecting her ability to compete at the level required for collegiate polo.
Exploring a New Treatment Approach
Initially, Turca received steroid injections, which provided some immediate improvement and helped her finish out the collegiate season. However, her care team believed they could do more to support her long‑term comfort and performance.
That’s when Lisa Fortier, DVM, and the Cornell veterinary team introduced Arthrex ACP® therapy.
ACP therapy uses a horse’s own blood, processed to concentrate platelets and growth factors that help support healing and manage joint inflammation.
“In order for Cornell’s polo program to continue to be competitive on the national stage, we must take very good care of our horses,” said Dr. Fortier. “Utilizing regenerative medicine, such as the Arthrex ACP double-syringe system, helps us protect our horses’ bodies so that they can compete on the national level for as long as possible.”
A Noticeable Improvement
After treatment, Turca’s performance began to improve.
“This made a world of difference for Turca,” Van Loon said. “Her hind end is rock solid and her stride has increased in length.”
With improved strength and movement, Turca secured her place in the National Intercollegiate Championship game string and continued competing at a high level.
Supporting Long-Term Performance
Turca’s story reflects a broader approach to caring for equine athletes, where regenerative therapies are used to help maintain performance over time.
By supporting joint health and managing inflammation, ACP therapy may help:
- Improve comfort during activity
- Support joint and soft-tissue health
- Extend an athlete’s ability to perform
Today, Turca continues to compete, demonstrating how advanced therapies can help horses stay active in demanding sports.
