Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my horse need chiropractic?

Optimized structure = optimized function

From the beginning of their lives (including being born), foals experience physical stress as they learn to navigate their new and quickly growing bodies. We often house them in unnatural environments including stalls, small paddocks eating out of hay nets and elevated feeders. We ask them to be lead and tied with halters and leads, then often progress to riding or driving where they not only wear foreign equipment but have to learn to use their bodies in very physically demanding ways. Chiropractic offers a way to identify physical strains and correct biomechanical restrictions after (or preferably before) they result in injury or decreased performance.

Why does the rider need chiropractic?

Physical alignment, balance and comfort

Management of the horse is physically demanding - feeding, mucking, grooming... riding, falling...being pushed, pulled and bounced around... A chiropractic assessment helps to identify imbalances in your body that could be limiting not only your comfort but your connection and communication with your horse.  Through addressing these restrictions, we can help you improve your riding skills and awareness and help you help your horse.

What is the benefit of treating horse and rider?

Calibrating communication and connection

By addressing the physical barriers of both the horse and rider, we can optimize the overall connection. Sometimes we are unsure if the horse has an imbalance or if it is us. At the end of the day, if there is an imbalance in one, it will eventually affect the other, so by addressing both we eliminate the "chicken or egg" question and just get down to improving the pair which optimizes comfort and performance.

How do I know if my horse needs chiropractic care?

**New complaints should always be assessed by your veterinarian first**

• Tripping/stumbling

• Dragging toes

• Head tilt

• Disunited in the canter/lope

• Difficulty picking up correct lead

• Short choppy/uneven stride

• Refusing transitions or jumps

• Poor collection/impulsion

• Trouble bending one or both ways

• Changes in behavior

• Poor attitude when grooming or tacking up

• Support during increased training

• Concurrent care while managing an injury - addressing compensatory changes

• Long term management of chronic injuries/arthritis

• Alongside saddle fit issues

• After observed fall/known injury