Veterinary Physiotherapy FAQ’s

How can I tell who is qualified to treat my horse?

There are many services offered currently, and it can be confusing to know what to look for when looking for a veterinary physiotherapist. Any credible musculoskeletal professional will only act on referral/permission from the horses veterinarian and they will remain in contact with them throughout the process, gaining your horses clinical history and sending them their findings and treatment plans. Additionally, it is a good idea to check lists such as those by the National Association of Veterinary Physiotherapists (NAVP), who list all the qualified members on their website.

How will I know if my horse needs physio?

Horses are excellent at hiding their pain/issues. Loss of performance, schooling issues, behavioural issues, resenting tack, and changes in temperament are some subtle ways that we can tell if a horse is uncomfortable in some way and so may require the intervention from a veterinary physiotherapist.

What injury’s can physiotherapy help with the rehabilitation of?

Horses at many stages in their career and recovery process will benefit in some way from physiotherapy. Horses who’s performance has lapsed may be suffering with slight musculoskeletal pain which can be remedied fairly easily by a qualified veterinary physiotherapist. Additionally, those with known injuries like tendon/ligament lesions, foot imbalances, wounds, splints, swelling and lameness can be rehabilitated back to health under the supervision of a professional that has spent over four years studying and working with similar cases.

How long does a physiotherapy session take?

The initial appointment involves the primary assessment, as well as an introduction to the treatments, which may take up to 2 hours. Subsequent sessions, however, will be quicker, as the assessment only involves monitoring progress and the majority of the session will be focused on performing the treatments and devising the plan for the next step.

What is the difference between equine physiotherapy and chiropractors?

Veterinary physiotherapists work on the basis of function (how the body works) and movement (how the body moves) and every physical treatment is informed by scientific research and the three main modalities of treatment are manual therapies, electrotherapies and remedial exercise programs. Chiropractors use manipulation, similar to some manual therapies used by vet physios, but their primary focus is on the spine and nervous system- although Veterinary physiotherapists use techniques to target these areas too.

Do you work alongside any other equine professionals?

The veterinarian of the animal will be contacted prior to the initial assessment and they will be kept informed throughout the treatment of the individual. Additionally, in some cases I may liaise with remedial farriers, dentists and saddle fitters to get to the bets possible solution for a patient.