losing forward propulsion , bucking , refusing to jump or moving stiffly , for example .
The application of light gentle adjustments to these key areas stimulates a change in the body in all the locomotory systems , so although the skeletal frame is the point of reference , the treatment has a much wider effect improving nerve function , muscle tone and strength , and relieving tension on the connective tissues throughout the body .
McTimoney Animal Practitioner Zara Mitchell says , “ I have found McTimoney treatment to be particularly effective when considering hind limb , sacro-illiac and pelvic issues . A pelvic rotation by far is one of the biggest skeletal misalignments that can significantly impede a horse ’ s ability ranging from a basic general difficulty to perform certain tasks such as jumping , lack of performance and power , experience of pain and discomfort to being the primary cause of lameness .”
In cases of injury such as tendon damage or other lameness inducing injuries , the utilisation of animal chiropractic techniques can assist in recovery of the horse through gentle rehabilitation of the compensatory mechanisms that the horse has been using prior to diagnosis and appropriate treatment of the injury . If left with those compensatory mechanisms in place , the horse will eventually return to work with a new pattern of stiffness or soreness which may then predispose to further injury in the future , so it is wise to consider this even when the horse is not in work .
The Physiotherapist
In comparison , physiotherapy involves a wider range of techniques , which target the key areas of soft tissue soreness or injury . The focus for physiotherapy is soft tissue rehabilitation of the target injury site to enable greater comfort and return to normal performance .
Laser treatment is used to enhance healing , which is good for wounds and superficial soft tissue injuries .
Ultrasound can be useful for tendon injury and is also good for “ mobilising ” or “ breaking down ” scar tissue .
Pulsed magnetic field therapy can
“ The clearest distinction between animal chiropractic techniques and physiotherapy , is the focus of treatment in order to achieve a return to normal function and performance .”
MAA Practitioner Nikki Roughtledge
be great for muscle and soft tissue injuries to support blood flow , reduce oedema and assist in pain relief .
TENS , ( Transcutaneous electro nerve stimulation ) is also good for pain control and interaction with local nerves reduces pain impulses to the horse ’ s brain .
Neuromuscular electrostimulation can be useful for stimulating muscles to rebuild after disuse atrophy , and manual physical therapy such as passive and active stretches and range of motion activities are useful for keeping muscles and joints healthy by maintaining blood flow , bringing nutrients and oxygen and removal of waste products .
Making the decision
So , which should you use for your horse ? A physiotherapist and chiropractor ? As already stated , there are many roads to Rome .
To summarise , McTimoney Animal Practitioners will focus on balancing the skeletal frame to restore optimal function throughout the whole body ; Physiotherapists will provide a targeted plan of rehabilitation to the soft tissues at the injury site .
Both forms of treatment can complement each other well , and there are practitioners who are trained in both forms of therapy . Whether you decide animal chiropractic techniques or physiotherapy is the option for your horse , make sure that the practitioner you select is fully qualified , registered and insured . All practitioners must obtain veterinary permission in order to treat your horse .
To find your nearest practitioner and for further information please visit www . mctimoney-animal . org . uk or www . facebook . com / McTimoneyAnimalAssociation •
EVERYTHING HORSE MAGAZINE : JULY 2021 • 31