What to expect from a physiotherapy session for your horse

Before the session

• History and relevant information: I will ask about your horse’s medical history, current concerns, training and competition schedule, previous injuries, medications, dental history, shoeing cycle and any diagnostic tests (x-rays, ultrasounds, lameness exams) that may be relevant.

• Preparation: Have your horse clean, dry, and ready for their appointment. Please allow for 45–90 minutes depending on the case.

Initial assessment

• Static assessment: I will assess conformation, posture, muscle symmetry, skin and coat condition, old injuries and areas of heat or swelling.

• Dynamic assessment: I will watch your horse walk, trot and back-up. I may also need to see them on the lunge or ridden depending on the individual case.

• Palpation: Hands-on examination of muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints and local tissues to identify tightness, trigger points, swelling, pain responses, or reduced mobility.

Treatment

• Will include referral to a vet if necessary. Massage, somatics, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, passive and active stretching.

• Additional modalities if necessary including kinesiology taping, LASER, PEMF, TENs machine.

Rehabilitation

• All clients will receive a session report and individually tailored exercise rehabilitation programme specifically designed for you horse based on the findings of the session. These include detailed instructions and videos so you can be confident that you are performing them correctly.

Follow up appointments can be made during the initial session or towards the end of your exercise plan.