A Chiropractor for My Horse? – Equine Back Care
Horses, like all other animals large and small, can develop a series of health conditions. Veterinarians are the first stop for treating these conditions, but a relatively recent field in animal care is beginning to see more attention.
Equine chiropractors are called upon to treat injuries related to the spine and other neuromusculoskeletal maladies especially with regard to chronic pain. Practitioners will often use spinal manipulation and other manual therapies such as massage in treatment. The American Veterinary Chiropractic Association defines chiropractic adjustment as a “short lever, high velocity controlled thrust by hand or instrument that is directed at specific articulations to correct vertebral subluxations.”
If you suspect your horse may be in chronic pain, the first place to turn should always be your horse’s veterinarian. Consider asking whether or not a chiropractor would be beneficial for your animal. Some injuries cannot be treated by a chiropractor, but therapy from a chiropractor may save your horse from having to endure pain medications or other pharmaceuticals which could have other side effects.
An equine chiropractor can either be a DVM (Veterinarian) or a DC (Doctor of Chiropractic – initially trained to work with humans). Either doctor will go through a program of at least 210 hours, during which they will study topics including manipulative techniques, neurology, and rehabilitation.
Though doctors are accredited by the Animal Chiropractic Accreditation Commission, some researchers say there are still risks associated with the practice. These risks, however, fall within the normal range of risks for chiropractic care in humans and animals alike. Excessive force or poorly applied techniques could result in further injury. Regardless, most equine chiropractors are well-trained and it is always reasonable to ask to speak with the chiropractor’s clients or to decide against the treatment if you feel uneasy about it.
For many horse owners, especially those whose horses work or compete, keeping these animals pain-free and in good physical shape is essential. While veterinarians specializing in equine care are undoubtedly very proficient, not all will be able to treat effectively the various spinal or skeletal conditions that an equine chiropractor specializes in.
Keeping your horse pain-free is essential for its well-being.
As the field of animal chiropractic grows, and more veterinary schools begin to incorporate the field into their course of studies, more equine chiropractors will become available. For the time being, it may be difficult to find such a chiropractor in your area, but your veterinarian may know where to find one. The Internet is a great place to start as well, and the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association website contains a list, by state and country, of nearly one thousand doctors certified around the world.
