What is animal chiropractic?

Animal chiropractic is the same as human chiropractic. As a chiropractor, I am trained to locate and correct vertebral subluxations within the spinal and extremity joints of the horse to allow for decreased stress on the nervous system and correct biomechanical movement…. That’s a mouthful! Let me break it down for you. :)
In any animal, brain is boss. Your horse’s brain is what controls it’s movement, digestion, growth, heartbeat, etc. How does all that information get passed along throughout the body? Well, horses don’t have wifi- they are hard wired with a spinal cord and nerves! The spinal cord comes out from the base of the brain and travels through the protective spinal bones (vertebrae). Spinal nerves branch out from the cord and travel through openings in the spinal bones to every muscle, organ, and tissue in the body. If one or more of the spinal bones are not moving properly it may be causing pain, a decrease in communication from brain to body, visceral issues, an unwillingness to preform, unevenness of gait, or even flighty/nervous behavior- just to list a few!
My job as a chiropractor is to use a high velocity/low amplitude thrust to encourage movement through these “stuck” or subluxated areas, decreasing stress on the nervous system and allowing your horse to function optimally. Chiropractors are nervous system doctors. I like to say chiropractic isn’t adding anything- it is allowing your horse’s body to heal and move like it naturally can!

How can I tell if my horse needs an adjustment?

This varies horse to horse. The best way for us to figure this out is for me to get my hands on your horse and do a physical assessment. (An assessment includes palpation, motion palpation, gait analysis, and occasional neurological testing.) There are some common “tells” however. Some examples are: reluctance to pick up one lead over another, issues bending one or both directions, feelings of stiffness under saddle, so-called mystery lameness/bridle lameness, girthiness, refusing tasks they once seemed to enjoy or easily accomplish, head shaking, anxious attitudes, sullen attitudes, muscle atrophy, weakness, etc. Another easy answer to this question is that your horse also likely needs an adjustment after an injury or trauma.

How often will my animal need chiropractic care?

Again, this varies horse to horse. It also varies depending on what your goals are. Generally, if your horse has never been seen by a chiropractor, chances are good that they will need a handful of follow up visits before graduating to “maintenance care.” I prefer to see most first time patients again within 7-10 days after their first adjustment for a follow up visit. The answer to this question changes depending on the work your horse is currently in, your horse’s job, fitness level, age, health history, co-management with other providers, and more.

Can I ride my horse after their adjustment?

Yes! A lighter ride focusing on stretching and relaxation is completely appropriate after an adjustment. Listen to your horse and try to see if you notice any changes post-adjustment!

Will my horse be sore after you adjust them?

I hope not! In all seriousness, this is possible but fairly unlikely. Most horses seem to feel a sense of relief and relaxation after they receive a chiropractic adjustment. If they are sore, it is likely a “good workout” type of muscle soreness. Post adjustment soreness should never look like an acute trauma/lameness. Additionally, if your horse is being adjusted after an extreme injury or trauma, they may be more likely to show a bit of soreness briefly after their adjustment. Please consult your veterinarian on pain management techniques for that specific scenario.

What can I do in-between appointments to help my horse feel their best?

I would be happy to discuss various stretches, ideas for exercise routines, and referrals to other wellness providers to help your horse continue to feel amazing! I am extremely passionate about holistic pain relief and enhancing your horse’s natural ability to preform at their best- I might just have some good ideas for you to chew on.