Physiotherapy for Horses

Physiotherapy Indications

• Osteoarthritis

• Ligament or tendon injury (e.g. superficial digital flexor tendon, deep digital flexor tendon, suspensory ligament)

• Post surgery (e.g. kissing spine surgery, plantar neurectomy, arthroscopy)

• Post trauma (e.g. fractures)

• Spinal conditions (e.g. over-riding dorsal spinous processes (kissing spine), spondylitis)

• Neurological conditions (e.g. spinal degenerative joint disease, cervical vertebral malformation (CVM), nerve palsy)

• Fitness and conditioning for horses in competition

• Lameness

• Reduced ridden performance

• Pain management (back pain, muscle soreness)

• Maintenance of healthy joints and soft tissues

What Does Physiotherapy Involve?

• Subjective assessment

This involves gathering information through a series of questions about your horse's condition, lifestyle and any potential behavioural problems.

• Objective assessment

This is a physical assessment consisting of: observation; gait assessment; palpation of joints and muscle tissue; measuring range of movement of the forelimbs, hindlimbs and spine. The objective assessment can also include lunge and ridden assessments as indicated.

• Goal setting

To establish aims of rehabilitation for each individual horse and owner.

• Treatment

Treatment may include a combination of techniques such as: manual therapy; soft tissue or muscle massage; electrotherapy modalities (TENS/NMES); exercise prescription; education; lifestyle advice.

Prices

New patient assessment (60 mins): £70

Follow up session (60 mins): £65

Horse and rider assessment (2 hours): £120

(for more information on rider assessment please see human physiotherapy page)

Travel charges are included within the price, within our 20 mile territory covered (see map). There may be additional travel charges if you are outside the territory.