Back treatment for horses

[MoonlitArcher]

Who do you all use to look at your horses backs? What do you find is most effective? For example.. osteopaths, sports massage, chiropractor, reiki… I figure they all all a little different in some way but just wondering what’s the most effective and have you seen any major differences in your horses?

Also if anyone has any recommendations for anyone in Newport, S Wales area much appreciated!

 

[cauda equina]

I use a physiotherapist and found by current one thorough ACPAT's (Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy) Find a Physio

 

[Bernster]

It is all a bit confusing! Have used horse physio, chiro (bone cracker type) and my regular is a shiatsu massage who does people too. I did look up osteo and chiro and couldn’t tell a big difference but a Chiro did explain it to me.

 

[fankino04]

Mine was recommended by the vet, she is a registered physio but describes herself as a muscular skeletal expert as she has done many other courses on top of the physio. I like that she takes a multi faceted approach and doesn't just treat everyone the same (as I have found some chiros do). The RAMP website is good for finding people near you.

 

[Wheels]

I most regularly use a physio but also a chiropractor every now and then. We dont have any osteos locally for horses.

I have regular physio myself too

 

[pansymouse]

My friend is a vet physio and showed me how to massage my mare's spine (I do poll to the base of the tail). I give her massage one a week - we have Massage Mondays after the weekend's exertions. I also make her walk 10 step backwards everyday as recommended by the same physio. I have to say since embarking on this regime her top line and general back health is notably improved.

 

[TPO]

This might help as an introduction to who does what

https://www.equestrianbusinessaward...e-therapist-chiropractor-whats-the-difference

Personally I like Masterson and also use massage but I have nothing with major issues.

I've used a lot of physios previously and 100% have had better results with veterinary physiotherapists than with ACAPT physios.

I havent used a chiro but have used McTimoney-Corley

Worse of mouth is a good starting point

 

[ycbm]

It would depend on why I thought the horse had a sore back.
.

 

[Bernster]

Good point! I use them as regular treatment for the horse, maintenance work, but bring in specialists if there is a specific issue that they might help with.

 

[Tiddlypom]

Chiro vet - covers all bases .

 

[Quigleyandme]

My chronic lower back and hip pain was sorted permanently in two McTimoney sessions so any time I feel my horses would benefit from a treatment I use a McTimoney practitioner.