Physiotherapy

Treatment of the tissues through pressure and movement stimulation.

Osteopathy

The basic principles of osteopathy were established by Andrew Taylor Still in 1874 in America. These principles were later applied to horses, and since around 1950, they have been integral to equine therapy.

As A.T. Still once said:

The way is shown by the bones.

It should be mentioned here that osteopathy also includes the chiropractic treatment spectrum. However, I also want to warn against “bone breakers”. If too much abrupt force is used together with the physical laws of leverage, irreversible damage can very easily occur in the joints, ligaments and tendons.

To be able to perform osteopathic work, a strict knowledge of equine anatomy is a basic requirement.

Laser therapy/Laser acupuncture

This is a method which activates the metabolism. During treatment, a light impulse is absorbed by the cells and converted into energy. The cells can thus maintain their vital functions or, if their function has already been damaged or pathologically altered, they can return to their normal physiological function. In human medicine, this method has been in use for many years with great effect!

continue reading…

.

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

During TENS therapy, electrical impulses pass through the skin to the nerves, in order to alleviate or prevent pain. This activates the horse’s own naturally-produced pain inhibitors, which can lead to long-lasting pain relief, improved blood circulation and accelerated healing, even in the case of chronic pain.

Magnetic field therapy

In this form of therapy, magnetic fields are produced which allow the cellular metabolism to be positively influenced by the rhythm of magnetic pulsations passing through it. When applied over a specified time period, the energy metabolism of the cells can be increased.

Ultrasound therapy

Ultrasound, with a frequency between 1MHz and 3MHz, is applied to the treatment area via a contact gel. This can be viewed as a kind of “micromassage” of the body’s cells, whereby the metabolic and healing processes can be improved.

Other therapy methods

Kinesitherapy
Therapeutic training and therapeutic lunging. The ‘patients’ are treated in their home stables.

Enhancing Equine Therapy with Focus Horse:

A New Dimension in Physiotherapy and Osteopathy

As a dedicated physiotherapist and osteopath for horses, I am always seeking innovative methods to improve the well-being and performance of my equine patients. Since 2022, I have integrated Focus Horse, a cutting-edge motion analysis system, into my therapeutic approach. This advanced technology serves as a powerful tool to complement my treatments, providing deeper insights and more precise solutions for each horse’s unique needs.

Why I Use Focus Horse in My Practice

Focus Horse is a state-of-the-art analysis system that objectively evaluates horse movement. With a database of thousands of analyzed horses, this technology offers unparalleled accuracy in detecting subtle issues that might otherwise remain hidden. It supports my work by enhancing diagnostics and guiding treatment plans for a wide range of equine health challenges.

Key Benefits of Focus Horse in My Therapy

Gait Analysis for Better Diagnoses

• Detailed Motion Assessment: Focus Horse measures joint angles and vertical movement with precision, helping me identify movement patterns that could indicate underlying issues.
• Enhanced Problem Detection: Subtle irregularities, often missed during traditional observations, can now be accurately detected and addressed.

Rider Analysis for Holistic Solutions

• Improving Horse-Rider Harmony: By analyzing rider movements, I can support a balanced and effective connection between horse and rider, ensuring a comprehensive therapeutic approach.
• Tailored Adjustments: The system highlights areas for improvement, allowing me to offer specific guidance for optimized training and posture.

Applications in My Equine Therapy Practice

Early Detection

• Proactive Problem Prevention: Focus Horse enables me to identify potential health concerns in their earliest stages, preventing long-term complications.

Rehabilitation Support

• Efficient Recovery Monitoring: During rehabilitation, I use Focus Horse to track progress and adjust therapy plans to restore mobility and function effectively.

Training Optimization

• Custom Training Plans: The system helps me ensure that training regimens are aligned with the horse’s physical capacity, avoiding overexertion and fostering improved performance.