Osteopathy is a system of examination, diagnosis and treatment, which uses the movement of the body, to correct structural changes within the animal to help
maintain and restore normal function.

It is a holistic therapy which aims to treat the tissues causing the symptoms at the same time looking for and treating the root cause of the problem.

Osteopathy uses a series of techniques to mobilise the body, re educate the nervous system and improve muscle tone to allow a return to normal function and movement.

Osteopathy is holistic, it does not just focus on backs! During a consultation the animal is checked from the feet upwards and from the nose to the tail, so it is all encompassing. In many cases an animal has learnt to compensate from an old injury in the leg for example and over time this manifests itself into pain elsewhere i.e. along the spine. In such cases the area of pain and the root cause is treated.

The Osteopathic treatment consists of a variety of techniques, including articulation of joints, soft tissue work, stretching, fascial release and manipulation is used if appropriate.

Osteopathy can be beneficial for a wide variety of conditions and problems within the animal. Below are just a few examples that have been treated successfully.

In the dog:

	Intermittent lameness
	Unsoundness
	Some training or behavioural problem
	Underperformance
	Stiffness
	Maintaining mobility in older or competition dogs.

In the horse:

	Unsoundness
	Intermittent lameness
	Training problems
	Some behavioural problems can improve
	Stiffness on one rein in trot or canter
	Inability to form a ‘correct’ outline
	Underperformance
	Stiffness
	Maintaining mobility in older or competition horses.

Before a consultation can take place, Emily will seek permission from the Animals’ Veterinary Surgeon; this can either be carried out over the phone or in writing.

At the beginning of the consultation a short case history will be taken in order to find any previous injuries, illness etc that may be having a bearing on the presenting complaint.

With a horse, a visual examination will be carried out which involves walking and trotting the horse In-Hand. A dog is normally viewed at walk.

An examination will then take place which involves evaluating the whole animal including joints and muscles. Treatment will then follow which consists of using a variety of techniques to restore and improve the function of the restricted areas.

With horses it is normally advised that they are turned out or just have light exercise for a few days after treatment, although this may vary.

Advice is also given, on how to manage the condition or problem between treatments. For example a horse may improve faster if it is ridden ‘long and low’ into an outline rather than in side reins.

It is usual to have a follow up treatment after approximately two weeks. Maintenance treatments are also advised which is where the animal has a treatment twice a year as part of their routine care. This can help stop any problems manifesting too far and causing serious problems in the future.

Prices:
Prices vary depending on location and number of horses or dogs, so please contact Emily for more information.