Horses are athletes, whether they are a happy hacker, or an eventer or a racehorse and as such they can need attention and care for their musculoskeletal systems, whether for a specific problem or a general check.
When a horse might benefit from physiotherapy assessment
- Poor, inconsistent or under performance
- Stiffness on a particular rein
- Saddle area/back soreness
- Discomfort being tacked up or rugged up
Physiotherapy treatment is also relevant for:
Injury (acute and chronic)
- Soft tissue injury
- Wounds
- Fractures
- Orthapedic surgery
Chronic conditions
- Osteoarthritis
- Conformational abnormalities
- Prolonged lameness issues
Physiotherapy can help reduce scar tissue, improve healing and reduce pain
The assessment will involve:
- A full history
- Gait and conformation assessment (this may involve lunging and/or ridden work)
- A thorough palpation and range of movement assessment
- Exercises to help improve muscle tone and strength
- Massage to relieve muscle tension and spasm as well as stimulate muscles that may not be being used to maximum effect
- Exercise prescription