Chiropractic Treatments

November 2016

Olga and Simon have both successfully passed their certification with the International Academy of Veterinary Chiropractic (IAVC) in Sittensen, Germany. Having two of our vets certified in veterinary chiropractic enables us to offer this new exciting service to our patients.

What is Chiropractic?

Veterinary Chiropractic is a manual therapy, which restores function of muscles and joints in the neck, back and pelvis to maintain optimum movement and soundness. It focuses on the biomechanical dysfunction of the spine and its effects on the entire nervous system throughout the body.
Veterinary Chiropractic treatment does not replace traditional veterinary medicine; however, it can provide additional means of diagnosis and treatment options for spinal problems as well as biomechanical related musculoskeletal disorders.

Veterinary chiropractic treatment can be used for:
• Chronic musculoskeletal problems
• Acute problems such as tension or stiffness
• Prophylactic treatment to maintain fitness
• Maintenance of soundness in older animals
• Enhance performance ability in competition horses
• Treatment of chronic and acute pain syndromes
• Complementary treatment for chronic lameness such as bone spavin, osteoarthritis, navicular syndrome or tendon problems

What does a chiropractor feel for when assessing your horse?

During a chiropractic consultation the posture and gait of your animal is assessed, followed by a thorough palpation of the horse’s spine and body. A healthy animal should move symmetrically and bend in all directions without tension. Even though horses have a very large, thick muscle mass over the spine, the vertebral joints are flexible and relatively easy to manipulate with minimal force. An animal showing tension, pain, muscle imbalance or asymmetry, will likely have restricted vertebral joints as an underlying problem. A restricted joint is also called a subluxation. Diagnosing and treating subluxations along the spine and pelvis is the essence of veterinary chiropractic care.

How does a chiropractic adjustment work?

When a chiropractor identifies a subluxation, he or she aims to correct the misalignment of the spine and restore mobility to the joint.
Realignment is made via a quick, short thrust along the plane of the joint. This is called an adjustment. The adjustment is done by placing the hands directly on the affected vertebra (previously identified in the examination). Chiropractic manipulation is not painful and no sedation is required.

When is Chiropractic useful?

Chiropractic helps any horse to move more freely and symmetrically. It prevents wear and tear and will promote their long-term health. Hence treatment can be suitable for horses of all breeds and ages.
Performance horses will need the most frequent treatment due to the stress on their body. Your veteran and leisure horse may be fine with just yearly routine check-ups.
To book an appointment or find out more about veterinary chiropractic, please ring the office on 01903 883050.