The role of osteopathic manual treatment in performance horses
Click on the PDF below to read a stand out exploration of the role of osteopathic manual treatment in performance horses.
Winter Prep Care Checklist
By Siun Griffin, Equine Physiotherapist, LCAO Community Manager
#1 Dentist
Your horse should have a dental exam and float at least once per year. Ensure this is done by a veterinarian with expertise in equine dental or a highly qualified equine dentist.
#2 Vaccinations
Are your horse’s vaccinations up to date? Many horses need fall shots. What they will need will depend on where you live. Speak to your vet about what is needed.
#3 Colic Risk
Fall weather means lots of temperature fluctuation and as it gets colder horses may drink less. Diet can also change as horses come in off grass. All of these can increase colic risk. Plan to reduce the risk as much as possible.
#4 Deworming
Speak to your vet about fall deworming. While it is a good idea to carry out fecal egg counts, these don’t detect all types of worms, such as tapeworms. This is a good time of year to target tapeworms & bots.
#5 Sycamore Poisoning
Sycamore seed poisoning is a real risk if the seeds land in your horse’s pasture. Keep in mind the seeds can blow into paddocks even if you don’t have a sycamore tree. Learn how to reduce the risk and recognize the signs.
#6 Nutrition
Evaluate the condition of your horse and past winter history. Put a plan in place to ensure they have adequate nutrition for their needs over the winter when there is no grass available.
#7 Blankets
Good through your blankets and ensure they are clean and not damaged. Horses at work will likely need to be clipped to prevent sweat from causing them to get too cold. If you don’t clip or blanket, it is still a good idea to have a couple on hand in case they’re needed.
#8 Safety Checks
This is a good time to do a clean and safety check of your stables or horse shelter. Ensure they are clean, and dry, with good ventilation but minimal drafts. Check electrics for any damage as barn fires are more common in fall and winter.
#9 Rodent Proof
Ensure your horse feed is stored in rodent-proof containers and try to avoid rodent access to hay stores as best you can
#10 Exercise Plan
Winter means your horse’s exercise can become more restricted. Ensure you have a plan to get your horse moving each day, even if it’s hand walking, especially if they are stabled most of the time during winter.
For information on how you can become an equine osteopath, click here
Pain does not always equal damage
Pain does not always equal damage
Chris Bates M.Ost – Registered Osteopath
Whether we are talking about Humans or Animals, pain science is an important subject to understand when we embark on a career in therapy.
In the world of Osteopathy, pain is possibly the most obvious and prevalent sign of something affecting our patients. This doesn’t mean however that the pain is a good indicator of the severity of damage (if any) to the tissues.
Here we will explore the phenomenon we call “Pain” and why it might be misleading in some circumstances.
What is Pain?
It can be hard to put a short definitive answer to this question as pain is variable and depends upon the patient and their personal perception. Physiologically speaking, pain is the electrical impulses via sensory nerves that have been stimulated at nociceptors (Pain receptor nerve endings) being processed in the higher centers of the central nervous system (CNS).
The higher centers of the CNS will process the information and decide if the pain signal requires an action to reduce further damage or create heightened awareness such as a sympathetic response (Fight, flight, fright response).
This makes the science of pain seem simple. One could even ask, “ if it’s like flicking a switch at the receptor, how could the signal be wrong?” That is the question that biomedical scientists have been grappling with for nearly a century.
It’s important to understand pain as it can have hugely detrimental impacts on sufferers both in acute and chronic presentations.
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (2023) describes how pain has wide-reaching effects such as limiting work abilities, disrupting relationships and social activity, mental health concerns, and rendering daily tasks difficult or impossible.
Within the animal care world, pain has equally far-reaching consequences. Horses that are ridden, driven, and possibly competed can present with performance issues, time out of competition, and worsening behavioral traits.
Dogs may find regular walking activities difficult and consequently end up lacking in general health. For people working with animals in conservation, pain could reduce or inhibit breeding behaviors. Animals in pain will often exhibit “stereotypic” behaviors which are repetitive movements or actions that seem to have no intended goal.
These behaviors can become physically damaging. Horses for example might “crib” and “windsuck”. This can damage teeth, lead to colic, or exacerbate ulcers. Dogs may damage furniture or pace leading to nail and paw injuries or repetitive strain.
Of course, pain in animals can also put owners and handlers (even the public) at risk if the animal’s behavior becomes dangerous.
Does Imaging Help?
Medical and Veterinary science has benefited immensely from the development of various imaging methods such as ultrasound, X-ray, and MRI. There is no doubt that putting as many pieces of the puzzle together as possible is the sensible thing to do when looking to make a diagnosis.
However, many studies of human pathology and radiology have found that a large proportion of positive radiology findings are asymptomatic (pain-free) and many cases of severe pain have no radiological signs to find.
Many of us as pet owners will have experienced taking our beloved animal to the vet only for them to say that there are no obvious signs of damage, injury, or degeneration. So why is this?
While invaluable, imaging can only show us one aspect of the process of pain. Yes, there are obviously going to be times that osteoarthritis (cartilage degeneration), an osteophyte (bone spurs), or a disc prolapse are visible and match up perfectly with the presenting pain and disability.
The problem with relying too heavily on imaging when assessing pain is that there are other subtle influences on pain severity and location.
Referred Pain.
I often say to my patients, “If you are standing on a cat’s tail, the cat will make a lot of noise, but it’s not where the noise is coming out that the problem lies”.
Ok, this might sound a bit crude and I certainly don’t go around standing on a cat’s tail, but think about the metaphor here. Some dogs such as German Shepard are more prone to hip and lower back dysfunction as they age.
This is often due to the morphology we have bred into them which makes them stand their hind limbs far out behind, extending the hips and leaving the tensegrity of the spine and hind kinetic chain to support gravitational forces.
In Osteopathy we are well aware of how damage, inflammation, and compromised tissues in one location can create symptoms in other locations. If there were to develop a compression at the nerve root due to excessive spinal extension or distortion to the nerve passing the hypertonic psoas muscle then the distal (further from central) reaches of the nerve could display symptoms.
In this case, the area where pain, numbness, or changes in sensation occur wouldn’t actually be where the focus of intervention should be.
There are various ways in which the course of a nerve can be perverted, join our courses to find out how.
Central Sensitization.
When pain does occur as a result of trauma, illness, or another input, the body will react by trying to reduce the effects of the damage and trying to avoid the same thing happening again.
We have reflex actions to quickly get ourselves out of danger that require no conscious control. We develop psychological aversions to situations that caused pain before, this is part of the holistic model of Osteopathy that considers psychological and physical interrelated and inseparable.
Unfortunately, chronic pain or repeated exposure to the stimulus can cause the body to essentially “tune-up” the pain volume dial in our higher centers. This means that it takes less of the stimulus to evoke the pain felt.
This can also mean that sensations that would not normally feel painful become extremely uncomfortable or painful. We call this Hyperalgesia. Imagine a horse who has a vast history of hoof problems and poor care.
This horse may get rescued and begin to receive the right hoof care and trimming but the ground had already been laid for the chronic repeated pain stimulus to “tune-up” sensitivity.
This could make riding on roads difficult, lead to unwanted behaviors, or cause lameness after visits from the farrier.
I tend to describe it to owners with another metaphor. If the nerve is like a path through the forests, a path that gets walked along a lot will be easier to walk down, and a path that is not used so much will become overgrown. A nerve pathway that is stimulated over and over can lead to changes in the processing sensitivity.
Join our courses to find out how Osteopathy can help pathways downregulate again and function better.
Conclusion
Something we must remember is that the feeling of pain is created within our central nervous system as a way to instruct our conscious mind to take action or avoid action.
It is a signal, not an actual manifestation of the damage (if any) itself. Pain is often not felt in the location of damage, pain is often “up-regulated” beyond what is reasonable for the condition presenting and pain is influenced by other factors such a mental state or vital reserve.
Our work as therapists, Osteopaths or coaches is to educate owners about pain in a way that makes sense to them. By the way, please feel free to use my metaphors. By understanding the science of pain and how to affect it, we take control over what can often feel overwhelming.
Owners often feel completely helpless when caring for an animal who is experiencing pain, especially when that pain seems to not match any damage or conditions. If owners understand that the pain itself is not equal to damage and that there are ways to improve outcomes then it can really help support their care and potentially even save animals from unnecessary euthanasia.
Bibliography:
Harte, S.E., Harris, R.E. and Clauw, D.J. (2018) ‘The neurobiology of central sensitization’, Journal of Applied Biobehavioral Research, 23(2). doi:10.1111/jabr.12137.
Pain (no date) National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Available at: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/pain#:~:text=What%20is%20pain%3F,%2C%20almost%20unnoticeable%2C%20or%20explosive. (Accessed: 31 October 2023).
Soo, M. and Worth, A. (2014) ‘Canine hip dysplasia: Phenotypic scoring and the role of estimated breeding value analysis’, New Zealand Veterinary Journal, 63(2), pp. 69–78. doi:10.1080/00480169.2014.949893.
What is pain? (no date) What is pain? | British Pain Society. Available at: https://www.britishpainsociety.org/about/what-is-pain/ (Accessed: 01 November 2023).
10 Foods That Are Poisonous to Dogs
By Siun Griffin, Veterinary Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager
Dogs are beloved members of our families, but their dietary needs differ significantly from ours. Some foods that are safe for humans can be highly toxic to canines due to their unique metabolism. It’s essential to be aware of these potential dangers to keep your canine companion safe. In this article, we’ll explore 10 foods that are poisonous to dogs, explain why they are toxic, and provide information on the signs of toxicity and whether veterinary attention is required.
1. Chocolate
Toxic Ingredient: Theobromine and caffeine
Why It’s Toxic: Chocolate contains theobromine (a type of methylxanthine) and caffeine, both stimulants that can affect a dog’s heart and nervous system. The amount of theobromine varies depending on the type of chocolate with milk and white chocolate containing the least amount and unsweetened baker’s chocolate the most.
Signs of Toxicity: Vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, seizures, restlessness, and, in severe cases, death. It can take several hours for symptoms to present.
Veterinary Attention: Always seek immediate veterinary care if your dog consumes chocolate.
2. Grapes and Raisins
Toxic Ingredient: Unknown
Why They’re Toxic: The exact cause of grape and raisin toxicity in dogs remains unclear, but ingestion can lead to kidney failure starting at around 24 to 72 hours post ingestion which is fatal. Even one grape or raisin can be fatal.
Signs of Toxicity: Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, shivering, and abdominal pain. These can present from around 6 to 12 hours after ingestion.
Veterinary Attention: Consult a veterinarian if your dog consumes grapes or raisins immediately.
3. Onions and Garlic (including Chives & Leeks)
Toxic Ingredient: Thiosulfate
Why They’re Toxic: Onions and garlic contain thiosulfate, which can damage a dog’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. They can also cause kidney damage and elevated respiratory rate. This includes any form of these plants, such as dried, cooked, fresh, and powdered.
Signs of Toxicity: Weakness, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and pale gums.
Veterinary Attention: Seek veterinary care if your dog ingests onions or garlic as it is potentially fatal.
4. Xylitol
Toxic Ingredient: Xylitol
Why It’s Toxic: Xylitol is a sugar substitute commonly found in sugar-free gum, candies, and some peanut butter brands. It can cause a rapid release of insulin, leading to hypoglycemia and liver failure in dogs. It is very dangerous to dogs and it can be found in some non-food products that your dog could access, such as toothpaste.
Signs of Toxicity: Vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures, and collapse.
Veterinary Attention: Contact a veterinarian immediately if your dog ingests xylitol. Symptoms can appear from 30 minutes up to 12 hours. Immediate vet attention is necessary which can have a good prognosis if administered early.
5. Alcohol
Toxic Ingredient: Ethanol
Why It’s Toxic: Alcohol can cause alcohol poisoning in dogs, leading to depression of the central nervous system and potential organ damage.
Signs of Toxicity: Vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, tremors, and coma.
Veterinary Attention: Seek emergency veterinary care if your dog consumes alcohol.
6. Macadamia Nuts
Toxic Ingredient: Unknown
Why They’re Toxic: The exact cause of macadamia nut toxicity in dogs is unclear, but ingestion can lead to weakness, tremors, and hyperthermia.
Signs of Toxicity: Weakness, vomiting, muscle tremors, and elevated body temperature. Signs can start from 3 hours after ingestion or longer.
Veterinary Attention: Contact a veterinarian if your dog eats macadamia nuts.
7. Avocado
Toxic Ingredient: Persin (found in the pit, skin, and leaves)
Why It’s Toxic: Persin in avocados can cause gastrointestinal upset, heart congestion, and fluid accumulation around the heart.
Signs of Toxicity: Vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing.
Veterinary Attention: Consult a veterinarian if your dog consumes avocado.
8. Caffeine
Toxic Ingredient: Caffeine
Why It’s Toxic: Like theobromine, caffeine is a stimulant that can affect a dog’s heart and nervous system.
Signs of Toxicity: Restlessness, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, seizures, and death in severe cases.
Veterinary Attention: Seek immediate veterinary care if your dog ingests caffeine.
9. Mushrooms
Toxic Ingredient: Various harmful compounds
Why They’re Toxic: While not all mushrooms are toxic to dogs, some wild mushrooms can contain harmful compounds that affect the liver, kidneys, and nervous system. Toxicity levels vary by species.
Signs of Toxicity: Symptoms can range from mild gastrointestinal upset to severe liver or kidney failure, depending on the mushroom species
Veterinary Attention: If you suspect your dog has consumed wild mushrooms, consult a veterinarian immediately. Do not attempt to identify mushroom species yourself, as some toxic varieties closely resemble safe ones.
10. Cooked Bones
Toxic Ingredient: Splintering bones and bone fragments
Why They’re Toxic: Cooked bones, especially poultry bones, can splinter and cause choking, intestinal blockage, or perforation.
Signs of Toxicity: Choking, difficulty breathing, abdominal pain, and vomiting.
Veterinary Attention: Contact a veterinarian if your dog ingests a bone and experiences any symptoms
Final Thoughts
Being aware of these toxic foods and their potential effects on your dog is essential for responsible pet ownership. If you suspect your dog has ingested any of these poisonous foods, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal clinic immediately. Prompt action can save your dog’s life and prevent serious health complications. Always prioritize your dog’s safety by keeping harmful foods out of their reach.
Enhancing Veterinary Care with Animal Osteopathy: A Holistic Approach
Enhancing Veterinary Care with Animal Osteopathy: A Holistic Approach
By Siun Griffin, Equine Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager
Animal osteopathy is an emerging field within veterinary medicine that focuses on promoting wellness and treating various health issues in animals through manual manipulation of the musculoskeletal system.
This holistic approach considers the interconnectedness of an animal’s body, aiming to restore balance and alleviate pain without solely relying on medication or surgery.
As veterinarians seek alternative and complementary methods to enhance their practice, animal osteopathy offers a valuable tool that can lead to improved patient outcomes and overall well-being.
Understanding Animal Osteopathy
Osteopathy, in the context of veterinary medicine, involves the manipulation of bones, muscles, and other tissues to optimize an animal’s health.
Practitioners of animal osteopathy, known as animal osteopaths or osteopathic veterinarians, use their hands to assess and treat musculoskeletal issues that may be causing pain, discomfort, or limited mobility in animals.
This approach is grounded in the principle that the body possesses a natural ability to heal itself when its various systems are in balance.
Animal osteopaths believe that by addressing structural imbalances and promoting proper alignment, the body’s self-healing mechanisms can function more efficiently, aiding in recovery from injuries, chronic conditions, and other health challenges.
Benefits of Animal Osteopathy for Veterinarians
1. Complementary Treatment Options
Incorporating animal osteopathy into a veterinary practice provides an additional avenue for treatment alongside traditional veterinary methods. This can be particularly beneficial for cases where medication or surgery may not be the most suitable option or as a complementary approach to enhance existing treatments.
2. Holistic Assessment
Animal osteopathy focuses on the entire body rather than isolated symptoms, allowing veterinarians to take a more comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating conditions. By considering the interconnectedness of various systems, veterinarians can gain deeper insights into the root causes of certain health issues.
3. Non-Invasive Approach
Osteopathy primarily employs manual techniques that are gentle and non-invasive, making it an attractive choice for animals that may be sensitive to pharmaceuticals or surgeries. This can also be advantageous in cases where surgical risks are high due to age or preexisting conditions.
4. Pain Management
Animal osteopathy can be highly effective in managing pain associated with musculoskeletal problems. By improving alignment and reducing tension in muscles and tissues, animals often experience relief from chronic pain or discomfort.
5. Preventive Care
Incorporating osteopathic assessments into routine veterinary visits can help identify minor imbalances before they develop into more serious issues. This proactive approach can lead to early intervention and improved long-term health.
Incorporating Animal Osteopathy into Veterinary Practice
Veterinarians looking to incorporate animal osteopathy into their practice should follow these steps:
1. Education and Training
Veterinarians interested in practicing animal osteopathy should seek specialized training from reputable institutions. These programs typically cover anatomy, physiology, osteopathic techniques, and ethical considerations specific to animal care.
2. Certification and Licensing
Depending on the region, veterinarians may need to obtain specific certifications or licenses to practice animal osteopathy legally. Compliance with local regulations is essential.
3. Collaboration
A collaborative approach between traditional veterinary methods and osteopathy can yield optimal results. Veterinarians should communicate effectively with their clients and, if needed, refer patients to other specialists when necessary.
4. Comprehensive Assessments
Incorporate osteopathic assessments into routine veterinary examinations. Consider an animal’s posture, gait, and any signs of discomfort or restricted movement.
5. Treatment Plans
Develop individualized treatment plans that integrate osteopathic techniques as appropriate. Regular evaluations can help monitor progress and adjust the treatment strategy accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Animal osteopathy offers veterinarians a holistic approach to diagnosis, treatment, and overall wellness for their patients.
By considering the body’s interconnected systems and promoting natural healing mechanisms, veterinary professionals can enhance their ability to provide comprehensive care.
As this field continues to gain recognition, animal osteopathy is poised to contribute significantly to the advancement of veterinary medicine, offering a complementary approach that focuses on the well-being of animals in a profound and holistic manner.
For more information about LCAO’s PG Diploma in Animal Osteopathy for veterinarians please visit here or don’t hesitate to get in touch via email at info@aosteocollege.com
Manual Osteopathic Treatment and Coxofemoral Dysplasia Issues in Canines
Florence de Radigues is an Equine and Canine Physiotherapist from Portugal as well as recent graduate of the Postgraduate Diploma in Animal Osteopathy (PG DipAO) program at London College of Animal Osteopathy.
For more information on how you can become an Equine Osteopath, click here
Active Dogs- Lateral Strains
By Christopher Bates M.Ost (Registered Osteopath), LCAO Contributor
Whether they are rushing about chasing tennis balls or challenging you to a tugging match with a toy, dogs are a joy to watch. However, their playful movements make these exuberant animals far more prone to lateral (sideways) forces and injuries than any other domesticated animal.
While evidence to support the claim that dogs are more susceptible to lateral injuries is slim, the anatomical, behavioral, and biomechanical principles for this statement are sound. Let’s examine why.
The playful behavior that our domesticated dogs show stems from evolutionary traits that developed from being a predatory animal.
Imagine a wild predator chasing down a large mammal as its prey; the prey has often a size and speed advantage over the predator, but the predator has other tricks. Predatory animals are in an evolutionary arms race with their prey. They have to create traps, be faster, work as a team, and become more agile.
Canines evolved to work in teams (packs) in order to bring down larger and often faster prey. Instead of tiring their prey, they would play the long game. And while prey may be fast over short distances, the pack could take turns leading the chase over a longer stretch. As a result, the prey got tired.
Once the speed factor is cut out, there is one thing left to do- close in. At this point in the hunt, canines have a fantastic ability to alter direction quickly to shut off escape routes. We see it today in the herding work of sheep dogs- a skill that no technology can yet replicate. Let’s take a look at the science.
Biomechanics:
In the image, we have a determined Border Collie rounding up sheep. A very precise and fast change of direction is about to occur. The forces being transferred through the tissues here are very strong.
As a quadruped, abduction (limb moving away from the midline) of the shoulder is limited, around 30 degrees. This is the average angle the limb can reach before other mechanical changes occur such as trunk rotation or valgus (bowing) stresses on the distal joints.
To accommodate those forces, the tissues undergo micro and macro changes. Over time these changes can become more permanent and this is simply the adaptation of “fitness” for a task, the reason that appropriate training is so important for sporting dogs.
Unfortunately, there will often be times when the tissues are pushed just beyond their vital capacity and damage will occur. As stated above, other joints and body regions can flex, alter, and accommodate forces as well.
We have all seen this posture and to us, it looks playful and cute. But this position is a perfect example of the dog lowering its center of gravity in preparation to move in any direction quickly, just like its ancestors.
The body is lowered and inclined back to distribute weight evenly over the four feet building potential energy in the elastic muscles and taught tendons. Notice the front legs are splayed to the sides to accommodate lateral (sideways) shifts.
Muscles and tendons and joints….
So, what might we find as therapists, owners, and trainers? Those lateral forces will be sent through the complex structure which is the thoracic sling supporting the front limb.
Our courses teach the anatomy of this area in great detail and we use high-quality teaching materials to engage you in what can seem to be an overwhelming subject. But for now, let’s think simple.
The limb gets strained laterally then the muscles retaining the limb to the midline will get stretched. This could create the chance for minor tears or damage to the pectoral muscles.
Our courses teach in-depth palpation and Osteopathic assessment to allow you to ascertain if these muscles are damaged or experiencing pain (“Or” is important – Pain does not = damage, let us look at that in another article).
A joint that is built to have a greater range in flexion and extension than inside bending such as the carpal complex (essentially the wrist) could get over-exerted in that fast or excessive sideways darting movement.
The carpus is surrounded by a network of small fibrous ligaments that while elastic, have end ranges beyond which they can sprain or even snap.
Closing thoughts:
Should we stop doing agility classes with dogs? Should we stop our dogs from playing? Of course not!
The behaviors that dogs show in play and the skills they train in agility, working farm dogs, and other canine sports are natural and animals thrive mentally and physically when allowed to express their innate behaviors.
This article is not about suppressing those movements, it is to show how useful Osteopathy and therapeutic intervention can be for our four-legged friends. Educating ourselves in how to recognize injury, understanding the mechanics involved in canine movement, and knowing how to support good fitness is how to ensure dogs can live well.
Even if you don’t wish to become a professional Animal Osteopath (AO), we offer a range of short courses and diplomas that would be of great benefit to any dog trainer, breeder, or owner.
Osteopathic Intervention in the Management of Canine Osteoarthritis
Click on the thumbnail below to read an excellent dissertation by LCAO graduate Bianca Coutts on the efficacy of osteopathic manual treatment for the treatment of canine osteoarthritis.
For more information on how you can become an Equine Osteopath, click here
It’s the Rider!- Part 2
By Chris Bates, DO and Animal Therapist
Last time in Part One, I introduced you to a case of a horse with recurrent neck problems, and I discovered over my observations and assessments that the causative impact was from the rider/owner.
Of course, this is not an uncommon thing to discover when working with horses. When I worked as a riding instructor, I often saw riders who would explain to me that their horse was “badly behaved” or that they had had numerous therapists and vets out but could never isolate what was causing their horses to play up.
I firmly believe that however clear-headed and open-minded people can be, the human ego is far too strong for people to consider that they might be the problem.
Not to say that people are arrogantly assuming they are perfect, it is simply that they don’t see themselves mirrored in the horse’s physicality.
Osteopathy teaches us that form is a result of a combination of the material present and the afferent inputs upon it. Essentially, anything is a product of its make-up and environment interaction.
This dynamic interplay is ever changeable (luckily) and it shows us exactly what we need to see if we take the time to step back and observe. That really is the key word here, “Observe”. Step back and see and you have moved from where you were, where we only saw part of the whole.
The case I was covering in part 1 was clear if I “stepped back” and saw the whole picture. I had seen the horse ridden but only by the owner’s friend, not her herself.
If you have not yet read part one “It’s the Rider – Part 1”, I recommend you do so to fully appreciate this article.
It is not necessary to be a riding instructor to observe a rider’s impact on the horse. We can use our Osteopathic thinking to consider the forces such as gravity, tensegrity, and momentum and this will give us a good idea of what is happening.
Of course, it is essential to have a high degree of knowledge of anatomy and how the biomechanics of the horse function.
So, what was the rider in part 1 doing?
This particular rider was eager to enhance her flatwork (dressage) and did some light jumping. She used a general-purpose English saddle that was well-fitted.
One clue as to the way she rode was the worn line on the stirrup leathers; the friend I had seen ride had to shorten the stirrups two holes before she rode.
It is quite common for trainers and the advice of other riders to suggest riding longer in the stirrups for a “deep seat” and “better posture”. Unfortunately, many fail to consider the rider’s biomechanics and their level of competence when making these suggestions.
If a rider lacks the independent seat and balance that is required to ride with a longer leg position, they will make other adjustments when attempting to ride with a longer stirrup. These adjustments may give the rider a sense of control and stability (temporarily), however the connection to the horse becomes distorted.
The rider/owner in this case was falling into the trap of trying to run before she could walk. When the rider lacks the ability to connect through the seat effectively, they are actually better off easing themselves into the process by using the support available to them, in this case – slightly shorter stirrups.
Now I’m not suggesting that riders should become dependent upon stirrups and devices to maintain stability; consider a child learning to ride a bike and using stabilizers (training wheels). The experience gained through gradually lengthening stirrups over time allows the rider to develop better balance and proprioception without overburdening the horse.
This rider in particular had gone into what I used to call the “water ski” position. Because the stirrups were too long and the style of the saddle allowed for the leg to swing forward (to accommodate jumping seats), she had stretched her legs forward to seek the stirrups and therefore security.
We know in Osteopathy that one thing has to affect the other and of course, this does! In response to her forward leg position, the rider’s pelvis was tucked under too far causing her to straighten and brace her back, this conversely leads to the horse sensing more pressure in movement due to her lack of shock absorption.
The rider had to counter the forward leg by leaning backward behind the vertical and so distributing her center of gravity over the horse’s lower spine (lower thoracic and lumbar regions).
The horse can carry the rider’s weight quite well and without too much compensation when they are sat over the horse’s center of gravity. This is due to the balance being better and the intrinsic stability of the horse’s thoracic region and ribs, large areas of firm connectivity create a strong structure here.
The horse’s centre of gravity (COG) in natural (un-ridden) locomotion is located just caudal (behind) the heart and roughly mid-way between the dorsal and ventral lines. This obviously changes slightly when we mount up and changes again when horses develop to high levels of riding or different disciplines.
Our rider was sitting their weight way behind the COG and so the horse’s threats to the rear were completely understandable as that’s where the weight was going. This is a very common fault in riders and almost always leads to the horse hollowing their back.
The hyper-extended neck of this particular horse would certainly have been connected to the overall hollowing. However, there is another aspect to consider, the reins.
When this rider was in the “water ski” position as described earlier, the arms would be drawn back with her. This led to her having long reins yet braced and tense. The effect of the rein aid always being “on” meant that the horse was getting mixed signals when asked to move forward.
This is a little like driving the car with the hand brake on. The overuse of contact through the reins in any riding position will lead to altered ways of going in the horse.
The contact is meant to be offered in front of the horse and the energy of movement is pushed into the rein, unfortunately, many riders will bring the contact back to the horse reversing this principle. This can cause jaw tension (TMJ), hollowed back, shortened strides, lack of engagement, and of course, behavioral “issues”.
This particular horse was adding some rotation to his neck to evade the contact being applied. This way he could take hold of the rein and essentially nullify its impact to a degree.
This tilting/rotation is often seen and should be considered as a sign of pain, poor riding, tack fit issues, or even dental problems.
Osteopathically, it was clear to me that this rotation reduced his ability to bend laterally (Fryette’s laws of spinal motion). This coupled movement was what was likely creating the lesion that was recurring time and time again.
So where are they now? Well, the rider took my advice to have some training with the professional I had recommended. This trainer was actually very professional in that she worked with the owner’s current trainer to discuss a plan forward rather than just replace her.
This is obviously a great learning opportunity for the previous trainer and she took this very well. The rider has been attending Pilates classes focused on rider position and has made leaps forward in her riding abilities.
And the horse? He is now moving well, getting stronger and even winning at local dressage competitions. His shape has changed to one much more conducive to ridden work and a healthy spine.
The take-home…
It is very important for any practitioner to understand their limitations. Although I am a qualified trainer and riding instructor, I felt my place was better served as the therapist. Referring to another professional is not a case of losing work, in fact, it’s quite the opposite.
By making the right referrals and creating a network with other professionals, you can become a real hub of knowledge for your patients. Pointing people in the right direction for their animals is often what we as therapists of all kinds do.
The skills and abilities acquired through a course like the LCAO Diploma serve just as much to tell you when not to intervene as when to do so.
Most importantly, our courses give you the philosophical understanding and technical knowledge to see way beyond just the bit where symptoms show. If you treat a cat’s tail, the noise will come out of the mouth, but the mouth isn’t the problem!
My advice? Step back and see more, be open to referrals to other people, ask opinions, and be a detective. It can be so simple when we have much more information, such a huge part of Osteopathy is the examinations, assessment, and development of a hypothesis.
As Andrew Taylor Still himself said, “Keep digging”…
For more information on how you can become an Equine Osteopath, click here
Healing Horse Tendon Injuries
Healing Horse Tendon Injuries: Working as a Team, Vet, Phyio, and Osteopath
By Siun Griffin, Veterinary Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager
Horse tendon injuries can be a significant cause of concern for horse owners and trainers alike, as these injuries can lead to decreased performance, prolonged rest periods, and sometimes even retirement.
Tendons are crucial components of the equine musculoskeletal system, responsible for transmitting the force generated by the muscles to the bones and enabling movement.
When a tendon injury occurs, prompt and effective treatment is essential to ensure a successful recovery. Here, we will explore common veterinary approaches to healing horse tendon injuries, including traditional methods and emerging techniques.
Additionally, we will delve into the role of equine physiotherapists and osteopaths in developing comprehensive rehabilitation plans for these injuries.
Common Veterinary Approaches to Healing Tendon Injuries
Traditionally, horse tendon injuries have been managed using a combination of rest, controlled exercise, anti-inflammatory medications, and sometimes, surgical intervention.
Rest is a fundamental aspect of tendon healing, as it allows the injured tissue to undergo a controlled remodeling process. Controlled exercise, often in the form of hand-walking or controlled turnout, is gradually introduced to stimulate collagen alignment and strengthen the healing tendon.
New Techniques in Tendon Injury Rehabilitation
Recent advancements in veterinary medicine have led to the development of innovative techniques to enhance tendon healing. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapies are gaining popularity.
PRP involves drawing the horse’s blood, processing it to concentrate platelets, growth factors, and anti-inflammatory molecules, and injecting the resulting PRP solution directly into the injured tendon.
Stem cell therapy, on the other hand, uses the horse’s own stem cells to promote tissue repair and reduce inflammation.
Additionally, extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is being used to stimulate blood flow and cell activity in injured tendons. This non-invasive procedure involves applying high-energy shockwaves to the affected area, which can accelerate healing and enhance tissue regeneration.
The Role of Equine Physiotherapists in Rehabilitation
Equine physiotherapists play a crucial role in the rehabilitation process after a tendon injury. They work closely with veterinarians and horse owners to design tailored exercise programs that aid in promoting healing, improving range of motion, and preventing muscle atrophy.
Physiotherapists may utilize techniques such as passive stretches, active exercises, and hydrotherapy to gradually reintroduce the horse to controlled movement.
Equine physiotherapists also employ modalities like therapeutic ultrasound and low-level laser therapy to enhance blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair.
These professionals closely monitor the horse’s progress, adjusting the rehabilitation plan as needed to ensure a safe and effective recovery.
Equine Osteopathy in Tendon Injury Rehabilitation
Equine osteopathy is another valuable component of the rehabilitation process for tendon injuries. Osteopaths specialize in manipulating the musculoskeletal system to promote overall health and healing.
In the context of tendon injuries, equine osteopaths focus on restoring proper biomechanics, alleviating tension, and facilitating tissue recovery.
Techniques used by equine osteopaths may include myofascial release, joint mobilization, and soft tissue manipulation.
These methods aim to enhance tissue flexibility, reduce adhesions, and optimize biomechanical function, ultimately supporting the healing process of the injured tendon.
Final Thoughts
Horse tendon injuries remain a significant concern for the equine industry, but advancements in veterinary medicine and rehabilitation techniques offer promising avenues for improved outcomes.
From traditional approaches to cutting-edge therapies, the healing process for tendon injuries has evolved to encompass a holistic and multidisciplinary approach.
Equine physiotherapists and osteopaths play vital roles in developing comprehensive rehabilitation plans, tailored to the individual horse’s needs.
By leveraging the expertise of veterinarians, physiotherapists, and osteopaths, horse owners and trainers can provide their equine athletes with the best possible chance of a successful recovery and a return to optimal performance.
For more information on how you can become an Equine Osteopath, click here