Frequently asked questions?
Q- How do I know if my horse needs physiotherapy?
A- Animals can not communicate to us directly when they are in pain. However, pain will often manifest as a behavioural issue. You may experience the following in horses; bucking, bolting, refusal to jump and napping etc. A decrease in athletic performance is common with problems such as stiffness particularly on one rein, disunited canter, poor transitions, and difficulty working in an outline.
If your horse has suffered an injury or has recently had surgery, physiotherapy will help to optimise the healing process and promote a quicker return of function.
Q- How many treatment sessions will my horse need?
A- A follow up treatment may be necessary. On average it takes between 1-3 sessions (usually 1 week apart) in order to resolve the initial issue, with
some horses needing up to 6 treatments. If the horse is considered to require veterinary attention then the case will promptly be referred back to
the vet. Quarterly or biannual (sometimes more frequently) check ups are always recommended. Detecting weaknesses or potential problems before they manifest will ensure that your horse is working pain-free and to his potential, as well as saving money and effort in the long run.
Q- Why do I need to get veterinary permission before you treat my horse?
A- It is a legal requirement. According to the Ss 19 and 20 of the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966, a Veterinary Physiotherapist can only treat injured animals by veterinary referral.
Q- Will my insurance company pay for physiotherapy treatments?
A- Most insurance companies will pay for physiotherapy, however you will need to check this with your individual provider. You are required to pay for the treatment on the day and a receipt will be provided for you to claim back the money.
Q- Can I ride my horse after the treatment?
A- Two days off work is normally required following treatment. A reaction to the treatment may occur, resulting in stiffness, increased muscle pain, increased thirst and lethargy. This is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about. It is just the body's way of dealing with toxins released from the body following deep tissue work.
A- Animals can not communicate to us directly when they are in pain. However, pain will often manifest as a behavioural issue. You may experience the following in horses; bucking, bolting, refusal to jump and napping etc. A decrease in athletic performance is common with problems such as stiffness particularly on one rein, disunited canter, poor transitions, and difficulty working in an outline.
If your horse has suffered an injury or has recently had surgery, physiotherapy will help to optimise the healing process and promote a quicker return of function.
Q- How many treatment sessions will my horse need?
A- A follow up treatment may be necessary. On average it takes between 1-3 sessions (usually 1 week apart) in order to resolve the initial issue, with
some horses needing up to 6 treatments. If the horse is considered to require veterinary attention then the case will promptly be referred back to
the vet. Quarterly or biannual (sometimes more frequently) check ups are always recommended. Detecting weaknesses or potential problems before they manifest will ensure that your horse is working pain-free and to his potential, as well as saving money and effort in the long run.
Q- Why do I need to get veterinary permission before you treat my horse?
A- It is a legal requirement. According to the Ss 19 and 20 of the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966, a Veterinary Physiotherapist can only treat injured animals by veterinary referral.
Q- Will my insurance company pay for physiotherapy treatments?
A- Most insurance companies will pay for physiotherapy, however you will need to check this with your individual provider. You are required to pay for the treatment on the day and a receipt will be provided for you to claim back the money.
Q- Can I ride my horse after the treatment?
A- Two days off work is normally required following treatment. A reaction to the treatment may occur, resulting in stiffness, increased muscle pain, increased thirst and lethargy. This is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about. It is just the body's way of dealing with toxins released from the body following deep tissue work.
