Top 2 Tail
Veterinary Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is a non-invasive treatment for a wide variety of conditions. It is a rapidly growing field as both vets and owners become aware of the many benefits it can offer from musculoskeletal, neurological and age related changes to pain relief and rehabilitation.
All animals can benefit from physiotherapy treatment as regular treatment can mean that compensatory issues will be picked up early and dealt with and the chance of injury or further problems can be reduced. It can also help delay the onset of age related problems. It is beneficial for horses/ ponies to have a check before and after competiton season as prevention is better than cure and any muscle tension or decreased range of movement can be dealt with before it causes a problem or further injuries.
Signs that your horse or dog may benefit from physiotherapy are:
-
Changes in temperament or behaviour
-
Resenting tacking up, becoming reluctant to accept the saddle and or bridle
-
General lethargy
-
The development of ridden behavioural problems, such as napping, rearing or bucking
-
Poor upwards or downwards transitions
-
Adding a short stride before fences or taking down poles
-
Inability to achieve a particular canter strike off, or to maintain a canter lead around the school
-
An unusually high or low head carriage
-
Loss of muscle / weight / condition along neck, back or quarters
-
Loss of impulsion or a shortening of stride
-
Stiff on one rein when ridden
-
Inability to work on the bit
-
Inactivity in hindquarters
-
Saddle slipping to one side
-
Uneven shoe wear
-
Reduction in performance
Conditions that can benefit from physiotherapy-
-
Arthritis and degenerative joint conditions
-
Hip/ elbow dysplasia
-
Disk degeneration
-
Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD)
-
Cruciate ligament damage
-
Fractures
-
Neurological conditions
-
Acute and chronic pain and inflammation
-
Bacterial and skin infections
-
Wounds and proud flesh
-
Tendon and ligament injury
-
Gait and movement abnormalities
-
Pre and Post operative care and rehabilitation
-
Increasing performance and injury prevention
-
Behavioural issues relating to back, neck, shoulder and hind limb pain