Category Archives: Equine & Canine Osteopathy

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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By Siun Griffin, Veterinary Physiotherapist and Rachel Pechek, Animal Osteopath and LCAO Head Instructor 

Osteopathy and Nerves

We received a question some time ago about how an osteopath approaches nerve-related problems. There are many facets to this topic and we will try and touch on each of them in this post.

First off, it is important to note that there are differences between neurological disorders, diseases, damage, and dysfunction.

If you suspect a disorder, disease, or nerve damage, it’s important to get a veterinarian to assess and treat the patient medically before attempting osteopathic treatment. Osteopathic treatment may or may not be helpful in these circumstances. It’s as important to know when not to treat as it is to know when and how to treat!

Osteopathy and Pain

One of our aims as osteopaths is to help the horse’s nervous system function properly. Pain in an otherwise healthy area (no wounds, fractures, etc.) is a sign that the nervous system is not functioning properly. In other words, an area of the body displaying a pain response where no injury is present is in a dysfunctional state.

Osteopaths work off the theory of the pain gate which is well documented in the scientific community. In short, when proprioception is functioning properly and everything is moving, the pain nerve fibres are inhibited. When movement stops (restriction happens in the body), the pain fibres are no longer inhibited. This is when pain can be perceived.

Ultimately, the goal of osteopathic treatment is to promote proprioception, thus decreasing or eliminating pain. One of the most important techniques to achieve this is the OAB technique. We may also apply traction techniques when considering vertebral disc compressions that cause pain.

When osteopaths articulate the spine, they produce proprioceptive feedback for higher central nervous system structures. This shows the higher structures of what is happening in the peripheral system. If we have a case where the “wires are crossed” and dysfunction is present, the body will recognize this and re-adjust itself to a healthy, more efficient state.

When the animal is pain-free, it will continue moving. The continued movement ensures the pain does not come back.

 

Osteopathy and Muscle Problems

Muscle spasms are also a nervous system issue at their core. Muscles do not spasm on their own. They only spasm if the nerves that control them are telling them to contract and relax at the same time.

Thus, if you correct the nerve function, you correct the muscle spasm. Osteopaths may use soft tissue techniques such as cross fibre inhibition, or they will rely on their assessment and treatment of the spine to create change in the nerves leading to and from a muscle in spasm.

 

In writing this post, we found that the most important information one needs to treat nerve conditions is a solid foundation in neurophysiology. This is a topic, including the pain gate, that we teach in-depth with LCAO to prepare osteopaths for clinical training.

What are your thoughts on nerve-related problems and how to treat them? We welcome input from all therapeutic professionals and are looking forward to their insightful and different approaches.

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For more information on how you can become an Equine Osteopath, click here 

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Canine Conditioning

By Chris Bates M.Ost, Equine Therapist

Whether your dog is a family pet or a sporting competitor, fitness and mobility are of great importance to maintaining well-being and general health. Sometimes dog owners can fall into the trap of walking their beloved canines, but not fully understanding their pet’s movement needs. Even dogs who do not suffer from a musculoskeletal condition or other health needs can benefit from a devised fitness plan, not only to enhance physical condition but also to provide behavioral outlets and reduce mental stress.

What is conditioning?

Conditioning is the process of preparing and developing a system to cope with the demands placed upon it. This can apply to behavioral training as much as physical fitness, however, in this article, I solely focus on the physical aspects of canine development. Conditioning can be used in non-pathological cases (those without health conditions) to support good health and moderate behavior or in cases of rehabilitation and prevention for dogs with injury, illness, and surgical recovery (Marcellin-Little, Levine, and Taylor, 2005).

Dogs require adequate strength, mobility, and range of motion (ROM) to perform tasks such as walking, running, and jumping simply to support a good quality of life as their evolutionary disposition is one of a nomadic pack hunter. Should a health complaint limit any of the dog’s natural behaviors, they may experience mental stress as a result of having unmet needs. In Osteopathy and physical therapies, our jobs are not to train behaviors (Unless otherwise trained to do so), but we can have a profound impact on behavior by reducing pain and facilitating a route to natural behavior.

A therapist can aim to condition the cardiovascular system in order to increase endurance or work with strength and balance to support recovery from injury. The aims of conditioning will be dependent on the individual’s needs but the principles are the same:

Goal orientedMeasurableProgressiveAchievableAdaptableIndividualizedSAFE

Dogs as athletes

Sporting and working dogs require their owners to deeply understand how to adequately prepare them to avoid injury and promote high performance. An incremental “overload” of effort over time is one effective method of increasing capacity in a biological system. The overload principle uses training to challenge the limit of capacity such as strength or cardiovascular endurance to necessitate a change in the system to accommodate the additional stress. This is done over time with gradual but progressive increases in intensity. The overload at any point must not be sufficient to cause harm or injury but only to “stress” the system into developing increased ability.

Rest is equally important in conditioning to avoid injury and allow for physiological adaptations to take place. Rest during conditioning plans is also shown to be vital for dogs as it provides the time to feel physically and emotionally able to display natural behaviors as described in a paper following the training of sled dogs (Robinson et al., 2012). During rest periods, the body actually makes the changes to its ability to cope with higher levels of demand. Unlike the positive method of “Overload”, without adequate rest, the dog will experience “Overtraining” which will deplete the body’s resources and lead to a sustained stress response that is detrimental to health.

Family Pets

Of course, not every dog will be involved in sports or high-level activities such as police work. Many dogs will be beloved family members but we must remember that family members of all ages benefit from maintaining adequate fitness and mobility levels. A pet dog may live with children or vulnerable people and so maintenance of good behavior is crucial. As discussed earlier and mentioned by Zink and Carr (2018) in their study of canine conditioning, exercise has significant benefits to a dog’s psychological well-being. A simple plan can be used to integrate the right distance, frequency, and intensity of walks and other activities to allow owners to maintain their pet’s fitness and health. Importantly, general training activities such as obedience and playing games like fetch also contribute to overall conditioning. Alongside the psychological benefits of physical conditioning, maintaining a dog’s cardiovascular fitness and strength supports a longer, healthier life.

Challenge makes Change

The body will adapt to the needs that different demands place upon it. If the body is supporting homeostasis (biological equilibrium) then there is no need for it to waste energy on making changes. Adaptations come from placing a challenge on the body’s systems. These challenges don’t need to be uncomfortable; many people will quit going to the gym or a new diet simply because they have done too much too quickly and found the process too difficult. The purpose of good conditioning plans is to gradually and consistently increase the allostatic load (demand) so that the changes occur without unwanted stress reactions. The other benefit of progressive but gradual plans is that it reduces the chance of overload injuries or accidents. Aspects of conditioning such as balance and proprioception (awareness of body position) are just as important and without challenging these to create change, dogs may fall, strain themselves, or develop unwanted compensations.

The principles of Osteopathy, when learned well, allow a practitioner to understand the entire internal and external environment of the animal. Osteopathy considers the many facets that contribute to and affect conditioning. Armed with the right knowledge, the Animal Osteopath can assist the body to avoid obstacles to progression, assess progress, and offer advice on progression and regression of any plans.

Bibliography:

Marcellin-Little, D.J., Levine, D. and Taylor, R. (2005). Rehabilitation and Conditioning of Sporting Dogs. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, [online] 35(6), pp.1427–1439. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cvsm.2005.08.002.Physiopedia (n.d.). Strength and Conditioning. [online] Physiopedia. Available at: https://www.physio-pedia.com/Strength_and_Conditioning.Robinson, E., Thornton, E., Templeman, J.R., Croney, C.C., Niel, L. and Shoveller, A.K. (2021). Changes in Behaviour and Voluntary Physical Activity Exhibited by Sled Dogs throughout Incremental Exercise Conditioning and Intermittent Rest Days. Animals, 11(1), p.118. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11010118.Zink, C. and Carr, B.J. (2018). Conditioning and Retraining the Canine Athlete. Canine Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, pp.227–264. doi:https://doi.org/10.1002/9781119380627.ch10.

 

For more information on how you can become a Canine Osteopath, click here

The thoracic sling is a crucial component of a horse’s muscular system, playing a vital role in its overall movement and well-being. Composed of specific muscles and other tissues that connect the front limbs to the thorax, the thoracic sling contributes significantly to a horse’s balance, coordination, and strength.

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Let’s take a closer look at what makes up the thoracic sling, the muscles involved, its benefits when conditioned properly, signs of weakness, and exercises to improve its strength.

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What is the Thoracic Sling?

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Horses differ from humans in that they don’t have a collar bone. Instead, the shoulders are connected to the body by fascia, ligaments, and muscles. This group of tissues is known as the thoracic sling. It lifts the thorax and holds the chest between the front limbs.

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The lack of a clavicle gives the shoulder more range of motion. “The larger proximal muscles activate in a complex coordination to position and stabilize the shoulder and elbow joints during ground contact.” (1) Additionally, The proximal locomotor system of the forelimbs, specifically the musculotendinous units, work to provide energy storage and shock absorption in the stance phase. (2)

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The thoracic sling allows for much of the horse’s movement giving it the ability to move in multiple directions such as forward and turning, bending, jumping, and more. Because of its function, a well-conditioned and functioning thoracic sling is essential for overall body soundness and performance.

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Muscles Involved in the Thoracic Sling:

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1. Pectorals

There are four pectorals:

• transverse pectoral
• ascending pectoral
• subclavius
• descending pectoral

Illustrations by Alexa McKenna BVM & S from the book Horse Movement, Structure, Function and Rehabilitation by Gail Williams PhD

 

2. Serratus Ventralis

3. Rhomboideus

4. Trapezius cervicis

5. Trapezius thoracis

6. Latissimus

7. Brachiocephalicus

8. Omotransversarius

9. Sternocephalicus

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Illustrations by Alexa McKenna BVM & S from the book Horse Movement, Structure, Function and Rehabilitation by Gail Williams PhD

 

Benefits of a Well-Conditioned Thoracic Sling

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When properly conditioned, the thoracic sling enhances a horse’s performance in various ways:

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1. Improved Balance

2. Enhanced Coordination

3. Stability

4. Improved limb movement and stride length, reducing the risk of lower limb lameness

5. Improved posture when at rest and during exercise

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Recognizing a Weak Thoracic Sling

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A weak thoracic sling can have effects on the entire body and function of the horse. It can cause poor gait, which can lead to dysfunction in the limbs and increase the risk of lameness.

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Modern horse management, riding style, not enough free movement, and tense, consistent high-head carriage will create dysfunction in the body and weakness in the thoracic sling. (2)

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Signs of a weak thoracic sling may include

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1. Difficulty in Turning

2. Lack of Engagement and push from the hind end

3. Tendency to “Fall In”

4. Body soreness

5. Falling on the forehand

6. Girthiness can indicate soreness caused by a weak thoracic sling

7. Struggling to navigate hilly terrain

8. Performance such as tiring more quickly while exercising

9. Reduction in flexibility and length of stride

10. Cross-cantering and/or difficulty in picking up the correct lead

11. Hollow posture when exercising

12. Poor balance

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While the above signs can indicate thoracic sling weakness, they can also relate to other potential issues.

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Exercises to Strengthen the Thoracic Sling

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1. Raised cavaletti work

Setting up raised cavaletti encourages the horse to lift its legs and stretch its head down and out, engaging the thoracic sling muscles.

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2. Pole work

Pole work is fantastic for improving the thoracic sling. It can be done in hand during the early stages of rehabilitation and increases in complexity as there are improvements and you move to ridden work.

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3. Hill work

Riding the horse uphill prompts the engagement of the thoracic sling. This does not need to be fast work to get results. Plenty of slow work in hand and under saddle at the walk will slowly build the thoracic sling

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4. Backing up

Backing up a few times in hand on a daily basis encourages the horse to use its thoracic sling muscles more correctly. The horse should be allowed/encouraged to lower its head during this exercise.

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3. Lateral Work

Incorporating lateral exercises such as leg yields and shoulder-in when the horse is ready can further strengthen the thoracic sling and connected muscles.

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Taking time to work through beneficial exercises, such as above will help the horse develop correct muscle function, better posture, and reduce wear on the anatomy of the lower limbs.

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Final Thoughts

Understanding and addressing the importance of the thoracic sling in a horse’s musculature is essential for promoting optimal performance and preventing injuries. Regular, targeted exercises can contribute to the development of a strong and resilient thoracic sling, ensuring a horse’s overall well-being.

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Resources

1. Harrison SM, Whitton RC, King M, Haussler KK, Kawcak CE, Stover SM, Pandy MG. Forelimb muscle activity during equine locomotion. J Exp Biol. 2012 Sep 1;215(Pt 17):2980-91. doi: 10.1242/jeb.065441. PMID: 22875767.
2. American Farriers Journal, Hagen J, 2023 Nov, 16

https://www.americanfarriers.com/articles/14163-what-is-the-horses-thoracic-sling

3. Anatomy of the Horse, Klaus-Dieter Budras, fifth edition
4. Horse Movement, Structure, Function and Rehabilitation; Gail Williams PhD, illustrated by Alexa McKenna BVM & S

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

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Listening to Animal Owners as a Clinician

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By Chris Bates, M.Ost (Osteopath and Equine Therapist)

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Within a Veterinary practice or any form of professional interaction with animal owners, communication is key in discovering the information you need to make safe and appropriate decisions.

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While many pursue a career in Veterinary Medicine or animal care because they have a love for animals, dealing with humans is a large part of this career track.

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Communication and rapport building with an owner is honed over time. There may also be the odd occasion where missed information can interrupt the course of treatment.  Let’s take a deeper dive into humans and how to really hear owners.

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In my time working as an Osteopath (for Humans), I’ve had to talk with people about extremely sensitive subjects and difficult situations. In fact, in the UK, as registered Osteopaths we are required to complete a certain number of hours of training in communication and consent; every cycle of continued professional development.

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I have found that the more I learn about how people communicate, the more questions I have; people are extremely complex creatures and this is made even more confusing when emotional turmoil is factored into the equation.

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Emotions running wild

We all love our pets. They are part of the family and when owners attend the clinic or we visit them, they can be frightened and anxious about what will happen to their beloved companion. It’s hardly surprising that people in this heightened state of arousal and stress might omit some aspect(s) of vital information to the animal’s case.

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There is also the added impact of “white coat syndrome”, this is when people become fearful or at least apprehensive of a veterinary/medical professional. Of course, the owner will empathize deeply with their animal, so even though they themselves are not being treated, they could be so profoundly connected with the pet that they begin to act as if they were on the examination table.

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So what can we do to attempt to lessen the likelihood that overwhelming emotions will impact good animal care?

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This is where honesty and clarity need to be combined with empathy and compassion.

• Reassure – If you suspect that an owner is firmly in fight/flight mode and the fear and concern for their animal is clouding their communication, we need to make sure they understand that we are there to help. Perhaps start by stating that the priority is the animal’s health and welfare and that they can rest assured that you will leave no stone unturned to find the best treatment.
• Suggest company – Some owners might benefit from having a friend or family member with them when you make your consultation. Having someone who knows them and cares about them, but who is one level removed from the situation might give some clarity to the owner. The company may hear what you say as the clinician more clearly and be able to relay information in a comforting and familiar way.
• Ensure understanding – Clarity in your description of findings and seeking a way to explain complex details more simply can be transformative for owners. Many people who own animals find too much science babble very worrying and confusing. If we can learn to break down findings and ideas into simple thoughts, we can ameliorate much of that concern. I find that using metaphor is a very useful technique for this.

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Looking beyond the words

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Have you ever listened to someone and thought they weren’t telling you the whole story? You would not be alone…

A very high proportion of our communication is actually non-verbal. Well-trained practitioners who study human communication can easily tell if a person is lying from their body language.

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It’s actually impossible for most people to stop this “non-verbal leakage”, however, people with psychopathic and sociopathic tendencies have been noted as being better at covering this.

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Quite often a good giveaway is when people are noticeably fidgeting or fiddling with clothing or hair. This can be a sign that they are uncomfortable and potentially not mentioning details or altering them somehow.

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People can often feel guilty if their animal is in pain or ill during their watch. The aversion to being judged by the vet or practitioner might mean they don’t give you the whole truth. There are plenty of signs of this such as lack of eye contact, shifting weight, touching the face, and the aforementioned fidgeting.

So how can we offer the owner the chance to give us all the details we need? Of course, it is important that we are as informed as possible to make appropriate diagnoses and planning. I have found telling people phrases like “there is no judgment here” or “you can say anything here” can be very effective at opening a more honest dialogue.

Trying to make eye contact with owners when questioning but maintaining a non-threatening posture by not squaring off can draw more information. This is because the person knows they are being seen and observed. A simple method to appear more sympathetic and calming is to tilt your head when listening and nod from time to time to show understanding.

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If you observe some non-verbal cues that there is more to discover, there can be a lot to be gained by simply explaining why you need to know as much as possible. If we explain to people that the best care and solutions for their problems comes from absolute clarity and comprehensive understanding then we can often convince them to divulge further.

Owners obviously want the best for their pet otherwise they wouldn’t be there. So, by being candid and convincing the owner that you need every detail they can remember they might put their own anxieties aside.

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Active listening

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When the client is talking, it can be of huge help to “actively listen” to draw their explanations. This can be very simple and you may already do it without noticing. As mentioned above, nodding and eye contact show you are engaged with the person; non-verbal communication works both ways. Verbal “catalysts” are just as useful.

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I find affirming sounds such as “…uh hu…” and “…mm mm…” show you are taking on board what is being said. If you wish to draw more and steer the conversation, you can prompt with “…and then…”, “tell me more about that” or similar probing statements. One can even use hand gestures such as casually putting your hand out palm up which indicates you understand but want more information especially when combined with a slow nod.

In conclusion, we can see that working with animals can be just as much as working with people. We observe everyday different people communicating in different ways but can easily miss vital information.

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Training ourselves to sympathetically engage with people via techniques to put them at ease and then active listening can yield far better results than relying only on your observations of the physical presentation in front of you.

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A great way to practice is to go and socialize with a friend and ask them about themselves, really listen, and see how much you can engage the conversation from their side and what information you can draw.

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For more information on how you can become a qualified Animal Osteopath, click here