Equine Physiotherapy

Sports Performance

Physiotherapy can be hugely beneficial for the equine athlete. As for humans, physiotherapy is considered an essential in order to prevent injury, maintain fitness, enhance performance and maximise athlete potential within a safe and controlled environment. Physiotherapy and conditioning provides the foundation for athleticism and helps improve joint mobility, weight bearing, muscle mass and strength and improving fitness; all contributing to overall athletic performance.

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Physiotherapy for the equine athlete can include:

• Manual therapies including massage and stretching for muscle and joint health

• Exercise prescription for at home conditioning in-between sessions

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Injury and Recovery

As much as we wish we could plaster our horses in bubble wrap and avoid injury at all costs, it is generally inevitable with horses as most owners know!  Physiotherapy for the pre- and post-operative patient is commonly advised in order to effectively prepare for surgical intervention and assist in the recovery process in order for the patient to return to normal functioning timeously after intervention. Physiotherapy can help reduce pain and inflammation, encourage healing and prevent secondary complications. 

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Common conditions that may benefit from physiotherapy include:

• Osteoarthritis/DJD

• Neurological conditions

• Reduced function, stiffness or weakness in older animals

• Muscle atrophy (wastage)

• Wounds, muscle/ligament or tendon strains

• Impinging spinous processes (kissing spine)

• Sacroiliac dysfunction

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Indicators that your horse could need treatment:

• Head shaking during work

• Reluctance to stand/tolerate being tacked up or mounted

• Behavioural changes during tacking up/ridden work

• Reduced impulsion

• Reluctance to canter on a certain rein

• Bucking and rearing

• Intermitted lameness

• Poor transitions