McTimoney for Horses

Signs that your horse may benefit from a treatment include:

Loss of performanceChange in behaviourAsymmetry, such as stiffness on one rein or a disunited canterA sore or cold backMuscle atrophy or uneven muscle developmentUneven shoe wearUnlevelness, particularly behindResistances such as napping, bucking, rearing or refusing
 
These symptoms could be due an acute factor (an accident, trip, fall or getting cast in the stable) or a chronic factor (ill fitting tack, poor foot balance, conformational issues or compensation for another injury), or a combination of the two.

The treatment consists of a detailed case history, followed by an assessment of the horse’s static and dynamic conformation. The spine and pelvis are then palpated in order to identify any misalignments* in the vertebrae, as well as any areas of muscle soreness, and adjusted accordingly. To get the most from the treatment Corinne will often also use remedial massage and equine bodywork, as she finds these complement McTimoney well.

Aftercare usually involves a couple of days rest, followed by a gradual re-introduction to normal work, but this is tailored to suit each individual horse. Depending on the nature of the problem, some horses may require follow up treatments, but it is recommended that you have your horse checked routinely every 6 months, in order to maintain optimum musculoskeletal health and performance.

*A misalignment describes a joint which has become fixed within its normal range of movement, potentially resulting in reduced range of movement within the joint. It can also cause muscle tightness and spasms, as well as impingement, stretch, or compression of the nerves contained within the spinal cord. A misalignment can therefore cause the animal pain or discomfort, as well as affecting the function of the nervous system.