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Equine Chiropractic

*  Prior to any treatment, Veterinary approval is required. 
 

Equine chiropractic explained

Equine chiropractic care is a recognised treatment for injuries; as well as a method to maintain and improve both performance and well-being of horses.  

Great demand is put on horses musculoskeletal systems by having to maintain the weight of a rider. The placement of a rider creates a ‘shearing force’ through the spine. In order to balance itself and cope with the additional weight of saddle and rider, the horse has to learn to use its muscles in a certain way to oppose these forces.

Biomechanical dysfunctions can arise due to variables such as:
  • Previous injuries/illness
  • Age related conditions 
  • Dental issues
  • Foot imbalances 
  • Long periods of stabling
  • Poorly fitting tack
  • Carrying an unbalanced rider 
  • Conformation anomalies 
 
These can potentially lead to muscle or joint discomfort, therefore hindering their ability to cope with the physical demands of carrying a rider, as well as impacting their quality of life.

Chiropractic treatment can be part of the care for your horse to help its musculo-skeletal system deal with these demands.
When should you seek help for your horse? 
 
Symptoms which may respond to treatment include:

 
  • Poor/ unexplained deterioration in performance
  • Defensive behaviours such as: Pulling faces/aggression when saddling/rugging/grooming etc
  • Reluctance to go forward/ sideways/ up/ down hills
  • Reluctance to stretch/relax/hold good posture
  • Avoidance behaviour; bucking/rearing/napping
  • Knocking poles
  • The appearance of head tilt/head shaking
  • Uneven muscle development or soreness of back muscles
  • Inability to track up/engage hindquarters; loss of impulsion
  • Heavy in one rein compared to the other
  • Cold backed when being ridden
  • Tail swishing/holding the tail to one side
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