What is Equine Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a gentle hands-on approach to treating a wide range of issues; with the aim of restoring and maintaining optimal health and well-being. Our treatment approach not only focuses on the identified areas of dysfunction but also takes into consideration the entire musculoskeletal framework of the horse; this enables fast positive change to occur with lasting long-term benefits. 

Osteopathic techniques used during treatment will be carefully selected and tailored for your horse's specific needs, these include;

• joint mobilisations
• joint manipulations
• soft tissue massage
• myofascial release techniques
• muscle stretching
• cranial release techniques

Such techniques allow positive changes to occur within your horse's musculoskeletal system by positively influencing their circulatory, lymphatic and nervous system. These all contribute to achieving ultimate health and well-being; therefore enabling your horse to feel great and achieve optimal performance. 

What to expect during a treatment

Veterinary permission

It is a legal requirement to gain consent from your vet prior to your horse being treated by us. Generally this is not an issue, since vets understand the benefits that osteopathic treatment can provide in equine welfare and management. 

We can obtain consent on your behalf or alternatively you can download and send the following form to your vet directly.

Case history

During our first visit we will discuss any relevant medical history, as well as the aims and ambitions that you have for your horse. 

Bio-mechanical assessment

A full bio-mechanical assessment will be carried out, consisting of thorough observation and analysis of your horse standing, walking, trotting and turning. In some instances it may be beneficial to view the horse being lunged or ridden, however this is not necessarily a requirement. 

hands on examination

Refined palpation skills will be used to physically examine muscles, joints, ligaments and tendons in order to identify any areas of dysfunction, imbalance, restrictions or pain.

Treatment

After a thorough examination and interpretation of findings, the most appropriate osteopathic techniques will be selected in order to tailor treatment to your horse effectively.

aftercare and exercise advice

Full aftercare and exercise advice will be provided, as well as any stretches that may be beneficial to your horse. 

We can help you understand some simple anatomy of your horse throughout the treatment, which can support you to successfully train your horse in the correct way, thus optimising bio-mechanics and helping to ensure a longer career.

Collaborative healthcare

I work closely alongside other equine specialists such as farriers, vets, saddlers, nutritionists and dentists; this ensures the best all-round management of your horse.