Horses are athletes and like us can tweak and strain muscles on a regular basis requiring a physiotherapist input. Physiotherapy is not just for competition horses, all horses can benefit from physiotherapy to help improve muscle tone, joint range of motion, symmetry and being pain free.
Even if your horse does not have any issues, it is good practise to still have your horse checked so any small problems can be detected early and prevented. Common problems seen are issues arising from saddles, feet and foot balance.
As a physiotherapist Jess tries to work closely with vets, farriers and saddlers to achieve the best possible results for your horse.
Signs your horse may require physiotherapy include:
- Changes in behaviour and temperament
- Loss of performance
- Lack of willingness to work or lethargy
- Lack of acceptance to tack
- Developmental behaviours such as rearing, bucking and napping
- Poor impulsion and engagement
- Jumping issues
- Lameness
- Crookedness
- Stiffness
- Shortening of stride
- Saddle slip
- Head shaking
- Unable to strike off on correct canter lead
- Uneven shoe wear
- Loss of lack of muscle development
- Tripping/ stumbling
- Brushing of limbs
Physiotherapy can help with a wide range of problems such as:
- Neck, back and pelvis pain
- Tendon and ligament injuries
- Fractures
- Muscle sprain, strains, tears and bruising
- Wounds and scar tissue
- Nerve injuries
- Rehabilitation post surgery
- Performance maintenance
- Splints and swellings
- Behavioural problems
