Author Archives: Julia

The Shoulder of the Dog: Anatomy and Functional Adaptations

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The shoulder of the dog is a complex anatomical structure that plays a crucial role in the animal’s mobility and agility. Understanding these components is essential for appreciating the dog’s evolutionary adaptations for running and hunting.

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Muscles of the Dog’s Shoulder

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The shoulder muscles in dogs are responsible for a wide range of movements, including flexion, extension, abduction, and rotation. Key muscles include:

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1. Deltoid Muscle: This muscle covers the shoulder joint and is involved in flexing the limb and lifts the humerus. It originates:

• On the scapular spine and inserts on the deltoid tuberosity of the humerus.
• At the acromion inserting into the deltoid tuberosity

It inserts at the humeral crest.

2. Supraspinatus Muscle: Originating on the supraspinous fossa of the scapula spine and inserting at the greater tubercle of the humerus, this muscle aids in the extension and flexion. It is one of the muscles that works to stabilize the shoulder joint. Active dogs are prone to injuring this muscle.

3. Infraspinatus Muscle: Found in the infraspinous fossa of the scapula, it functions as flexion and abduction of the forelimb. It originates at the infraspinous fossa and the scapula spine. It runs down the shoulder blade before crossing over to the humerus, where it inserts. The muscles works closely with the supraspinatus and are important for shoulder stabilization.

4. Subscapularis Muscle: Situated on the subscapular fossa, this muscle helps in the internal rotation of the humerus and also provides joint stability. It inserts at the coracobrachial muscle on the lesser tubercle of the humerus after crossing the shoulder joint. It adducts and extends the shoulder and helps keep flexion.

5. Coracobrachialis Muscle: It originates from the distal part of the scapula and inserts at the proximal part of the humerus. It helps stabilize the joint and adduct the shoulder.

6. Teres Major and Minor Muscles:  The major originates at the caudal margin of the scapula and inserts at the body of the humerus. The minor originates at the distal infraspinous fossa and infraglenoid tubercle, inserting at the teres minor tuberosity. Both muscles work to keep the shoulder stable and flex.

Absence of the Clavicle in Dogs

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Unlike humans and many other mammals, dogs do not possess a bony clavicle. Instead, they have a vestigial structure that is not connected to other bones but is embedded within the muscles of the shoulder. The absence of a functional clavicle in dogs allows for greater flexibility and range of motion in the forelimbs. This anatomical adaptation is particularly advantageous for running and leaping, as it enables the scapula to move freely in a dorsoventral direction, increasing stride length and efficiency.

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Functional Implications

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The combination of powerful muscles, robust ligaments, and flexible tendons allows dogs to perform a variety of complex and dynamic movements. The musculoskeletal design of the shoulder is optimized for speed and endurance, reflecting the evolutionary pressures of predation and survival.

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The lack of a clavicle contributes significantly to the efficiency of the canine gait. It reduces the weight of the shoulder girdle and minimizes resistance during limb movement. This adaptation is crucial for endurance running, which is a key survival strategy for many canine species.

Final Thoughts

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The shoulder of the dog is a remarkable example of evolutionary specialization. Its unique structure, characterized by the absence of a clavicle and the presence of well-developed muscles, ligaments, and tendons, underpins the dog’s exceptional locomotive capabilities. Understanding these anatomical features provides insight into the functional adaptations that have enabled dogs to thrive in diverse environments.

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Resources

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1. Dyce, K. M., Sack, W. O., & Wensing, C. J. G. (2017). Textbook of Veterinary Anatomy. Saunders.

2. Evans, H. E., & de Lahunta, A. (2013). Miller’s Anatomy of the Dog. Saunders.

3. Hermanson, J. W., de Lahunta, A., & Evans, H. E. (2019). Miller and Evans Anatomy of the Dog: E-Book. Elsevier Health Sciences.

4. IMAIOS, vet-Anatomy

5. Anatomy, biomechanics, physiology, diagnosis and treatment of teres major strains in the canine, Laurie Edge-Hughes.

By Siun Griffin, Veterinary Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager 

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Animal holistic health practitioners, including osteopaths, physiotherapists, acupuncturists, and other complementary therapists, possess unique skills that can significantly enhance the well-being of animals.

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Specialized knowledge in alternative therapies can be a powerful asset in the realm of animal welfare, particularly in supporting animals that have been rescued from neglect, abuse, or abandonment.

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The Role of Holistic Health in Animal Welfare

Holistic health focuses on treating the whole being – physically, emotionally, and mentally – rather than just addressing specific symptoms. This comprehensive approach is particularly beneficial for animals in rescue and rehabilitation settings, where the challenges they face are often multifaceted.

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Key Areas Where Holistic Health Practitioners Can Help

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1. Physical Rehabilitation and Pain Management

Animals rescued from adverse conditions often suffer from injuries, chronic pain, or musculoskeletal issues. Animal osteopaths and physiotherapists can provide targeted treatments that promote healing and relieve pain.

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Techniques such as joint mobilizations, soft tissue massage, and tailored exercise programs can significantly improve an animal’s mobility and comfort, enhancing their quality of life and increasing their adaptability.

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Whether showjumping, eventing or jumping for fun, jumping horses is a thrilling activity and the horses often thoroughly enjoy it too. Jumping is certainly one of the more intensive physical activities that we do with our horses and so it makes sense to fully understand what the horse is going through and how it can affect them, this way we as owners and riders can ensure that the horse doesn’t undergo unnecessary strain or stress.

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Equine jumping is an athletically demanding movement whereby the horse completely leaves the ground usually to navigate over an obstacle although in the wild, this can also be to evade predation. There are numerous considerations when attempting to jump a horse safely and correctly:

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• Age of the horse
• Level of training (horse and rider)
• Type of obstacle
• Surrounding environment
• Surface
• Light
• Fitness of the horse
• Foot health and shoeing
• Tack worn
• Ongoing health issues or injuries

The list could go on and on. Essentially, it is important to go into this discipline prepared and educated.

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Let us look at the equine jump in more detail. There are 5 phases to the equine jump, the approach, take off, flight, landing, and away. There is a substantial amount of effort from the horse to ascertain the height and depth of the jump and to judge its safety on the surface which can often lead to accidents if these are not suitable.

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The Approach:

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Preparation is key here. During this phase, the horse is judging its speed, power, and impulsion to clear the jump safely. Riders will need to consider the “line” which is the straightness and angle taken in approaching the jump. The line can, with training, become more angled and shorter for more advanced and challenging jumping courses. However, in the early stages, a straight and perpendicular approach to the obstacle allows the horse the best chance to plan and assess their movements. The pace in approach will most often be canter, trot can be used to approach the majority of the line in some training scenarios but the last pace to gather in preparation for take-off will usually be a canter stride. The pace should hold a good rhythm, and balance and have enough impulsion. The rider should not interfere with the pace in approach, changes to the pace should be prior to obtaining the final line to the jump. Some trainers and instructors will provide a place pole in front of the jump (usually one pace space away, sometimes multiples) to educate the horse in rhythm and consistency.

Take off:

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His phase is when the horse gets the right foot placement to leave the ground and engage the adequate force to clear the jump. The horse essentially jumps twice, once with the front limbs and once with the hind. As force is transferred into the thoracic sling muscles and the tensegrity structures of the forelimb (see our last article on tensegrity), the elastic potential of these tissues allows for some lift as the horse then flexes the joints to raise the front legs. The horse will raise their head carriage and focus their ears and eyes on the jump at this point too. Once the elastic “spring” of the front has elevated the forequarters of the horse, the hind limbs will step under into the space cleared by the front legs. The height of the jump and the effort required will dictate how much compression the joints need to undergo to store potential energy. The hind feet will be placed close or even parallel and great force is exerted from powerful muscles such as the quadricep group and gastrocnemius and soleus.

Flight:

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The flight of the jump is where the feet are all off the ground and the forward momentum generated carries the horse and rider over the obstacle. Over the higher jumps, the horse will create a crescent shape called a “bascule” as it travels over the fence. At this point the rider can still actually affect the horse’s way of going by very subtle weight and rein aids; however, at the fundamental level, the rider should remain fairly passive here. In preparation for flight, the rider will begin to compress their position at take-off and during the flight will fold their position to maintain their body weight over the horse’s center of gravity.

Landing:

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During the landing, the horse’s entire body weight and the rider’s weight are momentarily placed through the front limbs. This is where strain injuries can be developed (more on that later). With a high degree of flexion of the spine and lumbosacral junction, the hind legs follow under the horse’s body and continue to propel the horse forward transferring the forces into traveling motion. The ground and surface integrity is of great importance here to ensure that the horse does not slip or get stuck.

The Away:

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One the horse has landed, there is a significant amount of momentum that needs to be directed. The rider has some degree of control over the leading canter leg the horse picks on landing by using subtle rein and weight cues, but the away in training should be driven forward and straight from the obstacle to encourage maintenance of rhythm and impulsion. At this point, the horse and rider are able to regain balance and posture over the center of gravity. The rider will bring their position more upright again and the horse will engage their hindquarters to lift the forehand and drive forward. From a training perspective, the horse can benefit from some light but encouraging aids to keep moving forward and free of restriction.

Injuries:

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Damage and injury can be a risk in any equine discipline, however jumping obviously puts a high degree of force through the tissues and joints. It is very important to consider the growth stages of the horse when training younger jumpers.

By Siun Griffin, Veterinary Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager

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As our beloved canine companions age, they often face a host of health challenges, with chronic pain being a prevalent concern. From arthritis to degenerative joint disease, senior dogs can experience discomfort that affects their quality of life.

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While traditional veterinary treatments play a vital role in managing pain, holistic approaches like osteopathy offer additional avenues for relief and well-being.

Understanding Chronic Pain in Senior Dogs

Senior dogs are prone to a range of conditions that cause chronic pain, including osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease, and age-related degenerative changes in joints and tissues.

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These conditions can lead to stiffness, lameness, reduced mobility, and decreased enjoyment of everyday activities such as walking, playing, and climbing stairs. Managing chronic pain in senior dogs requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both the underlying pathology and the dog’s individual needs for comfort and well-being.

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The Role of Osteopathy in Pain Management

Osteopathy is a holistic healthcare approach that focuses on restoring balance and function to the musculoskeletal system. In senior dogs, osteopathy can complement traditional veterinary care by targeting areas of tension, restriction, and dysfunction in the body.

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Osteopathic techniques such as soft tissue manipulation, joint mobilization, and gentle stretching can help relieve muscle tension, improve joint mobility, and enhance circulation, thereby reducing pain and promoting healing.

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Benefits of Osteopathy for Senior Dogs

One of the key benefits of osteopathy for senior dogs is its gentle and non-invasive nature, making it well-suited for animals with age-related health concerns or mobility issues. Osteopathic treatments are tailored to the individual dog, taking into account their specific condition, age, and comfort level.

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By addressing musculoskeletal imbalances and promoting relaxation and circulation, osteopathy can help senior dogs experience relief from chronic pain, improve their range of motion, and enhance overall well-being.

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Integrating Osteopathy into Senior Dog Care

Integrating osteopathy into the care regimen for senior dogs involves working closely with a qualified and experienced animal osteopath or veterinarian who specializes in complementary therapies.

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Osteopathic treatments may be combined with other modalities such as acupuncture, physical therapy, and dietary supplements to create a comprehensive pain management plan. Regular sessions with an osteopath can help monitor the dog’s progress, adjust treatment as needed, and provide ongoing support for their comfort and mobility.

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Case Studies and Success Stories

To illustrate the effectiveness of osteopathy in managing chronic pain in senior dogs, consider sharing case studies or success stories of dogs who have benefited from osteopathic care. These could include stories of dogs with arthritis experiencing improved mobility and comfort, seniors regaining their zest for life after osteopathic treatments, or dogs finding relief from age-related stiffness and muscle tension through regular osteopathic sessions.

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Final Thoughts

As our canine companions age, providing them with comprehensive and compassionate care becomes increasingly important. Osteopathy offers a gentle and holistic approach to managing chronic pain in senior dogs, addressing the underlying musculoskeletal imbalances that contribute to discomfort and mobility issues. By integrating osteopathy into the care regimen for senior dogs, we can help them enjoy their golden years with greater comfort, vitality, and quality of life.

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Promoting Horse Barn Safety

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By Siun Griffin, Veterinary Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager

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Ensuring safety in a horse barn is not just about reacting to potential dangers; it’s about proactively preventing them. From the moment a visitor steps onto the property to the daily care routines, every action should prioritize the well-being of both horses and humans.

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So what kind of approach can you take? Here’s somewhere to start to help make your barn fun and safe for both horses and people.

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1. Establishing a Safety Program
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Training Sessions: Implement regular safety training sessions for all staff, riders, and visitors. Cover topics such as safe handling techniques, emergency procedures, and spotting hazards.

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Written Guidelines: Develop written safety guidelines and procedures that are easily accessible to everyone on the premises. This could include protocols for handling emergencies, using equipment safely, and maintaining a clean environment.

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Safety Inspections: Conduct regular safety inspections of the facility to identify potential hazards and ensure compliance with safety protocols. Encourage staff and riders to report any safety concerns they notice.

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2. Hazard Identification
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Slippery Surfaces: Identify areas prone to becoming slippery, such as wash stalls, grooming areas, and aisleways. Implement non-slip flooring or use rubber mats to reduce the risk of slips and falls.

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Loose Equipment: Check for loose equipment or debris that could pose a tripping hazard in walkways and common areas. Encourage staff and borders to promptly clean up any spills or clutter.

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Unsafe Infrastructure: Inspect fences, gates, and stall doors for signs of wear or damage that could potentially injure horses or humans. Replace or repair any compromised structures promptly.

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3. Practical Examples
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Safety Protocol for Tacking Up: Before riding, all staff and riders must inspect tack for signs of wear and tear, ensuring it is in good condition. They should also double-check girth tightness and ensure all buckles are secure to prevent accidents while riding.

Identifying Fire Hazards: During safety training sessions, staff should learn to identify potential fire hazards, such as exposed electrical wiring, flammable materials stored improperly, or blocked fire exits. Regular inspections should be conducted to address these hazards promptly.

Emergency Response Drill: Conduct regular emergency response drills to ensure all staff and riders know what to do in the event of an emergency, such as a fire or a horse injury. Practice evacuating horses from stalls and rehearse first aid procedures.

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By implementing a comprehensive safety program, identifying potential hazards, and providing practical examples, horse barns can create a culture of safety that protects both horses and humans. Remember, safety is not just a checklist; it’s a mindset that should be embraced by everyone in the barn community.

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By Siun Griffin, Veterinary Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager 

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As our beloved canine companions age, they may face a myriad of health challenges, ranging from arthritis to reduced mobility. While conventional veterinary care plays a crucial role in managing these issues, complementary therapies like osteopathy are gaining recognition for their ability to enhance the well-being of senior dogs.

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Osteopathy, a holistic approach to healthcare, focuses on improving the body’s overall function by manipulating muscles, joints, and tissues. Here we will take a look at how osteopathy can be a valuable tool in improving the quality of life for our aging furry friends.

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Understanding Osteopathy

Osteopathy is founded on the principle that the body possesses self-healing mechanisms that can be facilitated through manual manipulation. Osteopathic practitioners use their hands to assess and treat musculoskeletal imbalances, aiming to restore optimal function and mobility. This gentle, non-invasive approach is particularly well-suited for senior dogs, as it can address age-related issues without the need for invasive procedures or medications.

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Benefits for Senior Dogs

1. Pain Management

Arthritis and joint stiffness are common ailments in senior dogs, leading to discomfort and reduced mobility. Osteopathic techniques, such as gentle joint mobilizations and soft tissue manipulation, can help alleviate pain by improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and promoting relaxation in the affected areas.

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2. Improved Mobility

Reduced mobility can significantly impact a senior dog’s quality of life, hindering their ability to perform everyday activities and enjoy their golden years to the fullest. Osteopathic treatments aim to restore range of motion in stiff joints and muscles, enabling senior dogs to move more comfortably and engage in activities they once enjoyed, such as walking, playing, and climbing stairs.

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3. Enhanced Circulation

Aging can lead to decreased blood flow and tissue perfusion, exacerbating musculoskeletal issues and delaying healing. Osteopathic techniques, such as gentle stretching and rhythmic movements, can improve circulation throughout the body, delivering vital nutrients and oxygen to tissues and promoting the removal of metabolic waste products.

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4. Stress Reduction

Senior dogs may experience increased stress and anxiety due to changes in their environment, routine, or health status. Osteopathy can help alleviate stress by promoting relaxation and releasing tension stored in the muscles and soft tissues. This not only improves the dog’s overall well-being but also supports their emotional resilience during the aging process.

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5. Complementary Support

Osteopathy complements conventional veterinary care and can be integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan for senior dogs. By addressing musculoskeletal imbalances and promoting overall health and vitality, osteopathic treatments can enhance the effectiveness of medications, supplements, and other therapies prescribed by a veterinarian.

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Case Study

Consider an elderly Labrador Retriever named Max, who was struggling with arthritis in his hips and hind legs. Max’s mobility was limited, and he showed signs of discomfort when standing up or walking. His owner sought the help of an osteopathic practitioner, who performed gentle joint mobilizations and soft tissue techniques during a series of sessions. Over time, Max’s pain decreased, and his mobility improved. He was able to move more freely, enjoy longer walks with his owner, and regain his zest for life in his golden years.

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Final Thoughts

As our canine companions age, they deserve the highest quality of care to ensure they remain happy, healthy, and comfortable. Osteopathy offers a holistic approach to addressing the unique needs of senior dogs, providing gentle and effective treatments that promote pain relief, mobility, circulation, and emotional well-being.

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By incorporating osteopathic care into their wellness routine, senior dogs can enjoy an improved quality of life and continue to be cherished members of our families for years to come.

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When approaching any science or art, a model to understand the presentation before us is required. If one is looking at exactly the same things over and over, then of course the same model will suffice.

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However, from the study of Osteopathic principles, we know that we are never really looking at the same thing twice. Case presentations are as unique as fingerprints and we are required to observe the world through a number of lenses.

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BioTensegrity in Animal Osteopathy

One model that can be particularly useful to consider when dealing with Animal Osteopathy is bio tensegrity. Tensegrity or tensional integrity is where compression and tension work in tandem to create structure. Forces are shared through the combined efforts of push and pull in a way that can create what some refer to as “Floating compression”.

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Above: A commonly used example of tensegrity structure to teach the principle in biology using wooden sticks and string. 

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The model is not as simple as just thinking of bone as the sticks and connective tissues as the strings, however. An animal’s body is a massively complex interplay of pressure, gravity, tension, resistance, and motion.

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Consider the resistance and motility of the viscera when thinking of the “struts” in the picture above. Fascia is running throughout the body functioning as tension bands and communicating motion to other areas of the body.

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It is even reasonable to consider fluid dynamics within the same model, for example as blood exerts pressure on the arterial walls, the arteries’ elasticity provides the tensioning to resist this; in fact this model is how the baroreceptors (pressure receptors) in arteries receive their information and relay information to the higher centers. So, it is obvious that tensegrity is not simple but it can make things easier to see.

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“Time Bombs” – What is This?

Some cases will present as healthy animals that have no veterinary diagnosis and yet owners will be acutely aware that something is not right. These cases are what I tend to call “Time Bombs”.

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They have no lameness or veterinary concern YET, but will often be in a configuration whereby they will eventually lead to a bigger problem. Conventional medical and veterinary thinking can often be focused on symptomatology and the idea that something is “wrong” with the body.

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In Osteopathy we understand that although it might not be nice, it’s not “wrong”… Every condition serves a purpose, it is doing the best it can with the information and materials provided.

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Transfer of Forces

Tensegrity models help us to see that the “problem” may actually be stemming from forces in another area where the symptoms are showing. Forces exerted in one part of a tensegrity structure will be distributed and transferred throughout due to the reciprocal nature of the tension and compression.

So where will the forces “come out”? Where will they overwhelm the system?

The area of least capacity will generally be the point at which symptoms are observed. What do we mean by capacity? The vital reserve, the available resources, capacity, or fitness of a tissue, structure or organ will determine how much force it can withstand before failure.

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Examples of Transfer & Area of the Least Capacity

We can see this in horses’ shoulders. The horse has no bony attachment of the forelimb to the spine, it floats in a tensegrity of compression and tension through muscle, tendon, fascia, and gravity.

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It can be observed that a hoof imbalance will translate ascending forces that will distort the tensegrity of the shoulder sling. If the horse is young, elderly, unfit, otherwise compromised, or experiences a secondary force such as a slip or fall, the shoulder sling may be that point of least capacity and experience injury.

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The initial factor leading to the overwhelm however was the hoof imbalance. As Osteopaths, we do not trim or shoe horses unless additionally qualified to do so, but we can recognize these factors and make referrals for the animals.

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Recognition of this can then allow us to work as a team with the correct hoof care. Osteopathic care can then balance and “tune” the tensegrity of the shoulder to its new and more sustainable position as the hoof develops.

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Removing Barriers to Health With Osteopathy

It is not unreasonable to consider that Osteopathic treatment may work as a descending force to gradually assist the dynamic nature of hoof growth in the right direction too. After all, through this model, we understand that one area affects another. But how might we do that?

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Osteopathy addresses the barriers to health. If the shoulder in the above example were lacking in vital reserve and capacity, then treatment would be aimed at removing the barriers to those tissues achieving health.

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We can consider the arterial flow to tissues and decompress areas of resistance, we can use OAB and articular movements to encourage lymphatic pumping, and we can consider spinal restrictions at the levels corresponding neurologically with the shoulder/thoracic sling tissues.

Importantly, we must honor our imitations legally and in our scope of practice. However, having an alternative view of an animal’s presentation to other professionals means that we can both treat but also act as holistic advocates for their health.

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Working With Other Professionals as a Team

Interdisciplinary cooperation in the veterinary world is becoming more and more valued by owners and vets alike. With qualification and training in Animal Osteopathy, we can not only directly treat but also educate owners and other professionals in our models and views of animal health.

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Osteopathy teaches us the interplay and reciprocal nature of systems, that should extend to the interplay and reciprocal nature of professions and practitioners. As Animal Osteopathy grows internationally, we can be at the forefront of this cooperation and collaboration.

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For more information on how you can become an animal osteopath, click here

By Siun Griffin, Vet Physio and LCAO Community Manager

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In the intricate biomechanics of horses, understanding the musculature is crucial for ensuring their well-being and performance. Among the myriad muscles contributing to equine locomotion and posture, the splenius muscle holds significant importance.

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Anatomy of the Splenius Muscle

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The splenius muscle is located in the neck region of the horse. It is divided into two parts: the splenius capitis and the splenius cervicis.

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Its origin is the spinous processes of T3–5 by means of thoracolumbar fascia and the nuchal ligament (the withers). The insertion is at the nuchal crest and mastoid process of temporal bone and transv. processes of C2–5. (the poll area)

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Its innervations are by the dorsal branch of local spinal nerves, and the dorsal branch of the accessory nerve.

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It is part of the dorsal chain muscles. Specifically, the epaxial muscles, which are the extensor muscles of the vertebral column. It is a superficial muscle.

Function of the Splenius Muscle

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The splenius muscle plays a crucial role in maintaining posture and facilitating movement in horses. Its primary functions include:

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1. Head and Neck Extension 

The splenius muscle aids in extending and elevating the head and neck, allowing the horse to maintain balance. By its action of elevating the head and neck, it facilitates forelimb protraction during the walk.

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During the trot it ‘acts before and during the first part of the stance phase of each forelimb to limit lowering of the neck.’

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At the canter, it again limits the neck from lowering and creates neck extension ‘during the leading stance phase.’

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2. Lateral Flexion

Working in conjunction with other neck muscles, the splenius muscle facilitates lateral flexion of the neck, enabling the horse to bend and turn effectively.

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3. Stabilisation

The splenius muscle provides stability to the cervical and thoracic spine.

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Innervation of the Splenius Muscle

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The splenius muscle receives innervation from branches of the cervical spinal nerves, primarily the dorsal branches of cervical nerves 3 to 8 (C3-C8). These nerves supply motor fibres to the muscle, controlling its contraction and relaxation.

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Clinical Considerations

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1. Muscle Strain

Like any other muscle, the splenius muscle is susceptible to strain, particularly during strenuous physical activity or sudden movements. Signs of splenius muscle strain in horses may include lameness, reluctance to bend or extend the neck, and sensitivity to touch along the muscle.

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2. Equine Performance

Dysfunction or injury to the splenius muscle can impact the horse’s performance, compromising its ability to engage in activities such as dressage, jumping, or racing. Proper conditioning, warm-up, and cool-down routines can help prevent splenius muscle injuries and optimize equine performance.

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3. Diagnostic Imaging

In cases of suspected splenius muscle injury or dysfunction, diagnostic imaging techniques such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be employed to assess the extent of damage and guide treatment decisions.

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The splenius muscle plays a vital role in the biomechanics of horses, contributing to posture, movement, and overall performance. Understanding its anatomy, function, and innervation is essential for veterinarians, trainers, and owners in maintaining equine health and well-being.

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Sources:

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Adams and Stashak’s Lameness in Horses, 7th Edition

Anatomy of the Horse, Fifth, Revised Edition

By Siun Griffin, Veterinary Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager

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As winter melts away and the warmth of spring emerges, horse owners must transition their care routines to accommodate the changing needs of their equine companions. Springtime heralds new growth, but it also brings forth specific challenges that demand attention and preparation.

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From shedding their winter coats to adjusting to lush pastures, horses require meticulous care during this transitional period.

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Shedding Management

With the arrival of spring, horses undergo the natural process of shedding their thick winter coats. Regular grooming becomes imperative to help facilitate this shedding process efficiently. Invest in quality grooming tools such as shedding blades, curry combs, and slicker brushes to effectively remove loose hair, dirt, and dander. Pay particular attention to sensitive areas like the belly and under the mane, where winter coats tend to linger stubbornly.

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Nutrition Adjustment

As pastures begin to regenerate with fresh grasses and forage, it’s essential to monitor your horse’s diet carefully. Introduce grazing gradually to allow their digestive systems to adjust to the increased moisture and lushness of spring grass.

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Sudden changes in diet can predispose horses to gastrointestinal issues like colic or laminitis. Consider consulting with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to formulate a balanced diet tailored to your horse’s individual needs, especially if they have specific dietary requirements or health concerns.

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Parasite Control

Warmer temperatures create an ideal environment for parasites such as worms and ticks to proliferate. Implement a strategic parasite control program that includes regular deworming and tick prevention measures.

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Work with your veterinarian to develop a customized deworming schedule based on fecal egg counts and regional parasite prevalence. Additionally, inspect your horse regularly for signs of ticks and promptly remove any parasites to prevent discomfort and potential disease transmission.

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Hoof Care

Springtime brings wetter conditions, which can soften hooves and increase susceptibility to bacterial and fungal infections. Maintain a rigorous hoof care regimen, including regular cleaning, trimming, and, if necessary, shoeing.

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Monitor for signs of thrush, a common bacterial infection that thrives in damp environments, and treat promptly with appropriate hoof treatments or medications. Ensure that turnout areas are well-drained to minimize prolonged exposure to wet conditions, which can compromise hoof health.

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Exercise and Conditioning

After the sedentary months of winter, gradually reintroduce your horse to a consistent exercise regimen to rebuild muscle tone and cardiovascular fitness. Start with low-intensity activities such as walking and gradually increase the duration and intensity of workouts over time.

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Incorporate a variety of activities such as lunging, riding, hacking (trail riding), and turnout to engage different muscle groups and prevent boredom. Pay attention to signs of fatigue or discomfort and adjust the exercise routine accordingly to prevent overexertion or injury.

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Environmental Safety

Springtime brings its share of environmental hazards, including toxic plants, seasonal allergies, and unpredictable weather patterns. Familiarize yourself with common toxic plants in your area and remove them from pastures and turnout areas to prevent accidental ingestion.

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Monitor your horse for signs of allergies such as excessive itching, coughing, or nasal discharge, and consult with a veterinarian for appropriate management strategies. Stay vigilant to changing weather conditions and provide adequate shelter and protection during storms or extreme temperatures.

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Dental Care

Regular dental examinations and maintenance are essential for ensuring your horse’s overall health and well-being. Schedule a dental check-up with a qualified equine dentist or veterinarian to address any dental issues such as sharp points, uneven wear, or dental abnormalities. Proper dental care not only promotes efficient chewing and digestion but also helps prevent oral discomfort and associated behavioral problems.

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Vaccinations

Depending on where you live, springtime means that certain vaccinations need to be administered. If you are unsure, consult your veterinarian and put in place a vaccination schedule.

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Blanket Changes

As the weather warms up, heavy winter blankets are no longer needed. This is a great time to get them cleaned repaired and stored so they are ready for when the cold returns.

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Supply Check

Now is a great time to go through your supplies and check if you need anything. Are you out of shampoo? Tail conditioner? Fly spray? First aid supplies? See what’s out or low and stock up for the coming months, so you don’t run out of something important!

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Turn Out Areas

Doing springtime maintenance on your fields and fencing is essential. Survey your fencing and repair any damage or weak spots. Post and rail fencing will usually need painting that helps preserve the wood.

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Test any electric fencing to ensure it is working properly.

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Many people will get their paddocks harrowed and rolled before too much grass growth to get rid of any holes or ruts that can injure horses.

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Barn Clean Up

Now is a good time to tackle any jobs inside your barn. Clean out items that are no longer needed. Tackle those cobwebs. Go through the tack, clean it, and get rid of anything that is not safe to use.

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Therapists

A springtime visit from your osteopath, physio, chiropractor, or massage therapist is a good addition to a fitness plan if your horse has been off work during the winter months particularly if you plan to go out competing.

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Springtime heralds a period of renewal and rejuvenation for both horses and their caretakers. By implementing proactive care strategies and precautions, you can navigate the seasonal transition with confidence, ensuring that your equine companions thrive in the months ahead. Remember that each horse is unique, so tailor your care routine to meet their individual needs and preferences. With diligence and attention to detail, you can enjoy a harmonious partnership with your horse throughout the splendors of spring.

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