Physiotherapy for Horses
Physiotherapy for Horses Physiotherapy is suitable for all types of horses and ponies, from race and competition horses, to riding horses and family ponies. Symptoms Physiotherapy can help with many problems, including lack of suppleness, inability to maintain a good outline, poor propulsion, one sidedness, leaning on the hand, poll tilt, tail to one side, resistance to girthing, saddle or mounting. Performance problems, including stopping and knocking down jumps. Conditions such as spinal pain and stiffness, muscle imbalance, muscle weakness, nerve injury, tendon/ligament damage, wounds - non healing and acute, orthopaedic conditions, compensatory problems and stiffness, can all be improved with physiotherapy. It can also help with flexibility for older and arthritic horses, as well in improving muscle function and way of moving. Physiotherapy is also useful for pre-screening for potential problems such as back mobility and hamstring length. It can be used pre-competition to look at flexibility and enhanced mobility and flare ups of chronic joint problems. It can be beneficial post-competition, to enhance tissue recovery and flexibility. Treatment Physiotherapy techniques include soft tissue and joint mobilisations and manipulation, massage, stretches, exercise therapy and electrotherapy techniques including LASER, ultrasound and muscle stimulation. Techniques to aid pain relief, muscle re-education, gait, balance and performance. Home Programmes A vital component is helping you as the owner to do as much as possible at home. I will give you exercises, advice and guidance to enhance your animals progress and well being. An individual home exercise and therapy programme is devised for each horse. Cost Physiotherapy can often be claimed on pet insurance. The first appointment will last for approximately one and half hours, and consists of assessment and treatment. Appointments normally take place at the horses yard. All animals are only treated with veterinary consent. Contact for pricing.