EQUIMEC > Equine therapy > Services > Physiotherapie
Physiotherapy activates the powers of self-healing
Physiotherapy is a natural healing method that uses active and passive movements of the animal to promote the healing of the musculoskeletal system and at the same time prevent illness.
When is physiotherapy advisable?
If the treatment is tailored to the horse's needs and complaints, physiotherapy makes sense for every horse. Namely:
- before starting under saddle to train weak points in joints and muscles using physiotherapeutic methods in a targeted and gentle manner.
- as a preventive measureto keep the musculoskeletal system healthy, especially in sport horses.
- for dysfunctions (functional disorders) or lesions (injuries to an anatomical structure) to speed up recovery.
- complementary to conventional medicine to treat injuries and blockages.
- as an alternative treatment if conventional medical treatment does not work and the horse is still in pain or lame.
Treatment in detail
How physiotherapy for horses works
Targeted physiotherapy for horses can alleviate pain, release blockages or tension and correct misalignments of the musculoskeletal system.
1 | Preparation
Before the initial examination and treatment, the horse should not exert itself and should stand dry. The pain treatment with medication should be completed so that the natural movement behavior can be observed.
2 | Detailed anamnesis
I get to know the horse better and get an overview of previous illnesses and acute complaints. A conversation with the owner helps me to do this. But also the medical records or a handover document from the attending vet.
3 | Visual inspection and manual palpation
The animal is examined while standing and at a walk, trot and canter. Joints and muscles are palpated for stiffness in order to detect misalignments, blockages and dysfunctions.
4 | Preparation of the therapy plan
Depending on which dysfunctions or lesions (injuries) are present, I develop an individual treatment plan for the horse. A single treatment is often sufficient for minor blockages or tension. For severe lesions, regular sessions are recommended.
5 | Physiotherapeutic treatment
I work with horses using massage, adjustment, mobilization and manipulation (short and quick movement impulses to release blockages). A session lasts about an hour.
6 | Rest for the horse
Intensive work on the muscles and joints can cause the horse to develop sore muscles. To avoid overloading the animal and to allow the therapy to take effect, you should not ride it for about three days after each physiotherapy treatment.
