Equine osteopathy

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What is it and what does it involve?

Equine osteopathy is a form of manual therapy which helps you get the most from your horse by preventing injury, relieving pain and allowing the best movement which will improve their performance and health.

During an initial consultation we will take a case history which covers any injuries, medications, general lifestyle and activities. We then complete an observation which involves watching the horse walk, trot and turn on different reins. Following this we will examine the horse’s joints, muscles and other tissues then treat the horse based on what we find. Treatment will be tailored specifically for the individual horse and will suit their age & lifestyle. Horses will not be treated when sedated. techniques include;

Soft tissue techniques – massage, stretching, trigger point

Joint articulation

Joint manipulation – where needed

 

When should I have an osteopath?

If the horse is not moving as they normally should or has had a change in behaviour. It can also be beneficial to have a maintenance treatment every few months for most horses just to check them over and try to prevent any issues that may occur.

 

How many treatments will the horse need?

This depends on the issue the horse is having. Once an initial consultation has been completed and has had some treatment, we will come up with a plan that will be suitable for the horse. Generally, some back problems can take around 3 – 4 treatments and maintenance checks are advised to try and prevent problems arising.

 

Should I consult my vet?

Yes. Before any treatment is carried out, we must have permission from the vet as it is a legal requirement. No animal should have osteopathic treatment or any other type of treatment without the vet’s consent. Before an initial appointment we will send out a vet consent form which you vet will need to complete before we can see the animal.

 

What can equine osteopaths treat?

Osteopathy is more than just treating the back. It can be useful in helping to improve thing such as:

Gait problems

Stiffness

Reluctance to trot or canter on certain reins

Behaviour changes

Muscle imbalance and hyper-sensitivity

Aiding in rehab

Reduced performance

 

 

How will the horse feel after treatment?

Osteopathy can initiate a healing response within the tissues which can trigger changes to occur. This then encourages toxins to be released for the horse to expel which can cause the horse to become tired. It can be beneficial for the horse to not be overworked for 1-2 days.

 

 

Canine Osteopathy

 

Canine osteopathy is suitable for all breeds whether they are your household pet, agility dogs or occupational dogs. Osteopathy can help with any musculoskeletal issues / imbalances that your dog may have and can aid in maintaining their overall health while improving their performance. Osteopathy aims to treat the dogs body as a whole rather than the part that is showing the symptoms.

 

 

Some reasons that dogs may need treatment;

Repetitive activities – jumping in and out of a car

Competition dogs – agility, racing

After surgery

Breed weaknesses – labs can be prone to shoulder and elbow problems, german shepherds – hip issues and dogs with long backs can be more likely to suffer from disc problems

Accidents – slipping etc

 

Vet consent will be needed before any treatment as it is a legal requirement. There will be a vet consent form for your vet to complete before an appointment can be made.

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