Equine Treatments

How could McTimoney chiropractic benefit your horse?

There are a multitude of health and performance issues which can be addressed with the use of chiropractic treatment. The aim of chiropractics is to remove areas of restriction and ensure the nervous system is able to function without being impeded by the musculoskeletal system. An area of restriction describes a joint which has a restricted motion and is unable to move through its full natural range of motion. These areas of restriction can interfere with the underlying nervous system and cause interferences in the signals being sent between the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nerves. Removing these restrictions allows the horse to function and perform at their best.

Signs of restriction 

There are many signs of restriction that your horse may present with. The most common complaints are…

  • Changes in behaviour, such as bucking, rearing, stopping at fences or napping 
  • Pain
  • Stiffness
  • Uneven hoof or shoe wear
  • Asymmetry through the body
  • Lameness
  • Cold backed
  • Lack of impulsion
  • Lack of flexibility 
  • Carrying the tail to one side
  • Disunited canter

Causes of restriction 

  • Trauma, from a fall, or field injury
  • The surface the horse is ridden on
  • Repetitive movements such as frequent lunging or repetitive jumping
  • Slips and running around the field 
  • Rider alignment 
  • Poor saddle fit
  • Kicks from other horses
  • Travelling accidents
  • Chronic conditions like arthritis or ongoing injuries

Equine chiropractic treatment can help with...

Chiropractic treatments are beneficial for most horses. Here are some of the benefits

  • Enhanced performance 
  • Management of chronic health conditions 
  • Maintaining soundness in older horses
  • Improvement in schooling issues
  • Positive behavioural change
  • Promoting muscle symmetry
  • Maintain healthy joints
  • Preparing young stock for sale
  • Preparation for showing
  • General ‘MOT’ check up.

Important information 

All animal chiropractors must work under the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 and the Exemptions Order 2015. To abide by this, the owner must consult their veterinary surgeon and gain consent before your horse can receive chiropractic care. If your horse is receiving chiropractic care as a general 'MOT'/ maintenance then veterinary consent is not needed.

 

A copy of my consent form can be found below