What is veterinary physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is the maintenance of health and function and the treatment of disease or injury using evidence based physical treatment methods including targeted exercise, manual therapies, heat/cold therapy and electrotherpaies. The treatment(s) used are based on the clinical presentation and what best suits each individual patient.

When does physiotherapy help?

Equine physiotherapy is indicated for the following problems:

  • Acute and chronic injuries

  • Back pain/cold backed horses

  • Behavioural issues related to pain

  • Reduced performance or changes in performance

  • Muscle imbalance and muscle strengthening

  • Joint conditions

  • Secondary complications related to lameness

  • Rehabilitation post-surgery

Physiotherapy can help to:

  • Maintain high levels of performance

  • Improve flexibility and mobility

  • Enhance recovery during training or after competition

  • Promote wound healing

  • Prevent musculoskeletal injury

 

 

What to expect in an equine physiotherapy session

  • I will discuss the horse’s general history, routine and living environment, workload, and details of any specific issues with the owner/handler.

  • The horse’s movement will be assessed in the walk and trot on a straight line and in the walk on a tight circle. I will ask the owner/handler to lead the horse. It is ideal to have access to a flat surface with enough space for the horse to walk and trot up if possible. 

  • If appropriate, I will assess the horse’s movement on the lunge or when being ridden depending on the issue being assessed – this will have been discussed at the time of making the appointment so that the necessary tack and equipment can be ready. 

  • I will assess the horse’s static posture, conformation, and muscle tone with the owner/handler holding the horse. I will assess range of movement of the joints of the limbs and spine.    

  • Once the assessment is complete any problem areas will be identified and discussed with the owner/handler. I will develop a treatment plan and provide initial treatment. Exercise advice will be discussed with the owner/handler.

Veterinary Consent

It is a legal requirement that any therapist treating your horse for an active injury or health problem has consent from your vet to do so. You may download a form here to request consent from your vet for me to treat your horse. If you prefer, I will contact your vet on your behalf to obtain their permission to treat your horse. This does not incur any additional fee. 

I do not need veterinary consent to provide treatments to maintain health and wellbeing and to improve performance in a healthy horse.