The goal of physical rehabilitation and musculoskeletal treatment for horses is much the same as that for humans and companion animals: recovery, relief, and ongoing management from injury, surgery, or chronic complications, as well as general maintenance and upkeep. Horses are also athletes and will benefit from routine treatment to keep them fighting fit and performing to the best of their ability. Another benefit of routine treatment is ‘prehabilitation’ – that is, preventative rehabilitation. A healthy horse with a strong core and correct posture can help prevent injury and the development of other conditions.
Treatment begins with a visual assessment of posture and stance, and then of movement and gait at the walk and trot. Getting hands-on, we then assess the horse’s muscle quality and identify any areas of tension that may be there. Depending on what is seen and felt, treatment consists of massage, trigger point release, electrotherapy, and stretching exercises. Musculoskeletal treatments like massage are known to be relaxing for the horse mentally and physically, improving circulation, reducing tension, spasms, and soreness, and aiding in recovery post-injury. Stretching exercises target tight muscles and areas in the body in need of release and promote blood flow.
Routine professional treatment brings an external eye to your horse to monitor progress, strength, posture, and ability that will be reflected under saddle. We can provide comprehensive conditioning and exercise plans and discuss all aspects of equine health from foot to tooth, and everything in between, and offer advice as to when it’s time to bring in the vet, farrier, dentist, or tack-fitter.
Any horse can benefit from treatment from a field ornament to a champion showjumper. Just like us, horses carry tension in their bodies no matter what they are doing (some more than others), which can become uncomfortable or painful, particularly under saddle or in work. Rehabilitation and musculoskeletal treatment works with the horse, the vet, and the owner to alleviate this tension and help the horse towards feeling, moving, and performing to the best of their ability. This is especially true for older horses, horses in work, and those recovering
