Equine Osteopathy

Animal Osteopathy works on the same principles and theory as human osteopathy, but with the specific techniques modified to account for the difference between the human and equine anatomy.

The training in animal osteopathy covers the key elements of anatomy, pathology, biomechanics, and equitation. This is complemented by an excellent balance of hands-on experience; treating horses of all types, from children's ponies to high level eventers and race horses. Vet consent is required, so it is helpful if you have contact details to hand prior to treatment.

The techniques used will depend on several factors including the nature of the problem and the age of the horse. During the treatment, I work with my hands to stimulate the horse's own healing mechanism. The techniques used will be selected because they are the most comfortable and best suited to the horse.

These techniques are typically muscle and connective tissue stretching coupled with rhythmic joint movements or manipulation to improve the range of movement.

How do I know if my animal needs treeatment?

Osteopathic treatment is not just about backs! It is a good indication that animals are in discomfort if they seem unusually sensitive when you touch particular areas. Other indications that treatment may be beneficial include:

• Back, neck, leg or tail pain
• Inability to engage the hind quarters. Difficulty with bending or flexing body or poll.
• Refusal or difficulty to perform canter, lateral or collected gaits on a specific rein.
• Injuries resulting from slips, falls or training.
• Performance or movement problems.
• Sudden changes in behaviour or personality, such as bucking, refusals, crabbiness.
• Head tilt, uneven pelvis or hips. Tail to one side.
• Muscle atrophy (loss), spasm, knots or imbalance.
• Degenerative arthritis.

What does a consultation involve?

A full case history is taken, detailing the animal's condition and onset of the problem including any relevant medical history. I will watch your horse being led up at walk and trot and turned on a circle. It is helpful if you can provide a level area for this.

My assessment takes the form of mobility testing all the major joints and palpating the soft tissues, making a note of any problem areas I find. The whole animal is examined, since the cause of the problem is not always where you think it might be.

Once I have gathered sufficient information, I will form an osteopathic evaluation which I will discuss with you and commence treatment if appropriate to do so. 

I do not treat animals under sedation.

Am I covered for treatment on my insurance?

Most insurance companies are, on the whole, happy for an animal insured with them to receive osteopathic treatment from a registered osteopath holding valid insurance, provided that the treating vet recommends the treatment and refers the case. Do check with your insurer prior to treatment if you wish to use them.

sue@meridian-osteopaths.co.uk