The position of the head and neck dictates how the horse moves through his back.Many horses with saddle problems, or dentistry problems raise the head in order to escape discomfort. This has the effect of hollowing the back, making it difficult for the horse to bring his hind leg underneath him.

Following Equine Spinal Therapy, Pauline often advises horse owners to work their horses stretched in a long and low ( forward and down ) outline to facilitate correct muscular development, and to help alleviate back problems.

Fig 1 Stretching forward and down

Imagine a horse reaching expectantly towards his feed bucket. His neck is shaped in an arch and there is an element of reach in his stance.

Why forward and down?

When the horses head and neck is stretched forward and down, the horses back is raised, allowing him to engage the muscles of his hindquarters to propel him forwards. In this position, the weight of the rider is supported by the nuchal and supraspinous ligaments, allowing the topline muscles to move freely and to develop correctly.

What are the benefits?

• It helps to minimize muscular spasms in the neck and back.
• It can help with the correct alignment of the vertebrae in the neck and thorax.
• It can help with problems such as kissing spines.
• It helps to separate the spinous processes along the thoracic spine.
• It raises the horses back and supports the weight of the rider.
• It allows the back to develop strength and stability.

Essentially, the horse must be able to carry the weight of the rider, and be able to move freely forwards in a balanced and relaxed manner whilst keeping a regular rhythm. In order to do this we need to develop the horses topline muscles whilst at the same time engaging the antagonist bottom line abdominal and flexor muscles.

Role of Nuchal Ligament

The horse can easily balance himself and the huge weight of his head, neck and abdominal contents with very little muscular effort. One of the main reasons for this is the role of the NUCHAL LIGAMENT. The nuchal ligament is a very strong  elastic and fibrous cord which runs from the poll to the spinous processes of the withers.

Fig 2 The nuchal and supraspinous ligament as shown play an important role in back biomechanics.

From the rear of the skull at the external occipital protuberance, the nuchal ligament creates the extremity of the topline of the neck extending to the spinous processes of the withers. It also spreads like a fan and attaches to the cervical vertebrae offering them valuable stability.

The supraspinous ligament runs from the base of the nuchal ligament on top of the withers  attaches to the spinous processes of the thoracic and lumbar spine and ends at the sacrum.

These structures help to raise the back due to the attachment to the spinous processes. They also give the back support, strength and stability. When the head and neck is lowered, the nuchal ligament becomes taught and exerts a forward pull on the spinous processes helping to raise the back. This also allows the muscles of the Longissimus dorsi to work in a relaxed way allowing the energy to be transferred from the propulsive hindquarters through the back, neck and poll to the riders hands.

Reasons why the horse may not want to work forwards and down.

• May lack impulsion from hindquarters.
• Lack of suppleness
• Incorrect muscle development.
• Teeth problems
• Saddle problems
• Bitting problems

Young horses that have not yet developed topline muscle, or those lacking topline muscle need to be ridden with the head and neck in a froward and downward position to encourage a loose relaxed back. However, all horses benefit from this type of work as a warm up and cool down after more strenuous work.

For more information on Equine Biomechanics, Therapeutic Exercises, Muscle or Skeletal Problems or Riding Lessons please contact Pauline on 07791 423772

Webster has been with his present owner for over nine years, as a much loved pet and companion .When he became ill just over a year ago following routine surgery to remove a benign tumour, his owner tried all diagnostic procedures available to discover the problem. These included X rays, MRI scans and blood tests, all of which showed nothing abnormal. He had been receiving acupuncture from his vet which seemed to be helping in the short term, however, she felt that Canine Spinal Therapy may be appropriote as he showed signs of a neuromuscular problem.

Websters symptoms included a lack of stregth and coordination in the hindlimbs, lethargy, depression, and disinterest in playing. He cried out , and dipped away to a light touch,  and was clearly suffering pain through the thoracic and lumbar area.

On Pauline`s first visit she noted that Webster was carying his hindquarters to the left, and was finding difficulty to move correctly through his hindlimbs. He was extremely sensitive on palpation of the muscular tissue, and showed signs of reaction through areas of his thoracic and lumbar spine. His first treatment involved gentle myofascial release, limb mobilisation and a spinal therapy through the cervical, thoracic, lumbar and pelvic area.

A few days later, his owner reported that he was much improved, was brighter in himself, walking much quicker, and was even able to jump up onto the couch, something he had not done for a long time!

The second visit revealed a much happier, more alert dog who was much less sensitive to touch and was moving much straighter. Pauline was able to apply some trigger point therapy to release residual muscle spasms, and targetted spinal therapy to those specific areas still showing signs of reactivity. Webster`s owner was given some therapeutic exercises to help with mobilisation and stability of the paraspinal muscles. Websters treatment is ongoing and progressive, as he receives a combination of acupuncture and spinal therapy which seems to be giving him a new lease of life. 

Here`s what webster`s owner said:”After a couple of days, Webster seemed to be brighter and walk a little better.” “After the second visit, his movement became more flexible, and he became more lively. He had less stiffness, and played more. He played more with his ball, and was jumping up, something he has not done since his operation.”

If you want to know more about Equine Spinal Therapy, or Canine Spinal Therapy, contact Pauline for further details on 07791 423772 

Pauline has been treating racehorses at a yard in Shropshire for nearly a year now. Racehorses are atheletes, and often develop musculoskeletal problems due to the nature of their work. Spinal Therapy or Musculoskeletal Therapy provides a vital maintenance tool along with correct farriery and dentistry to keep the horses performing at their optimum level.

 Here`s what their trainer had to say.

“We have been trying out a new horse physio on the racehorses over the winter and she has worked wonders. Pauline Hughes. She is very patient with the horses and after a thorough session there is a marked improvement. Pauline manipulated two horses for me recently that were 1/2 brother and sister both suffering from similar ailments. And the difference in the horses afterwards was very noticable. I would recommend her to any one.” 

Ben furnival – Severn Equus 

For further details of Equine Spinal Therapy, or Musculoskeletal Therapy, contact Pauline on 07791 423772

Therapeutic  stretches are often used to help with the flexibility of the horses spine.

Do therapeutic  stretches improve flexibility in horses and dogs?

• In a recent study performed by The McPhail Equine Performance centre, the following conclusions were made.
• The angles of the neck vertebrae at the extremities are primarily responsible for lateral orientation of the head and neck. i.e, correct alignment of cervical vertabrae is vital for achiving flexion and bend .
• Horse stretches or mobilization exercises have a direct effect on motion of the equine spine.
• Therapeutic stretches on the neck also have a positive flexing effect on the joints between the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae.
• Therapeutic stretches may have useful applications in horse and dog rehabilitation.    
• The stretches have also been shown to increase muscle cross sectional area in the deepest paravertebral stabilizer muscle, the multifidus which is associated with spinal problems.
• These types of  stretches have been shown to be beneficial in both equine and canine patients.

How do I stretch my horse or dog?

• The following neck stretches should be performed after exercise when the muscles are warm.
• Using treats encourage your horse or dog to flex as shown in the diagrams.
• Only go as far as is comfortable for your horse or dog.
• Encourage them to hold the stretch for a few seconds.
• Build up the time to approximately 15 seconds.
• Praise
• Always ensure that you perform the stretches very slowly, and to the ability of your animal.

For further information about horse stretches, dog stretches, equine or canine spinal therapy, please contact Pauline on 07791 423772.

Ref: Clayton, H et al ( 2011) Dynamic mobilizations in cervical flexion. Effect on intervertebral angulations. Equine Vet Journal (supp)

Just by riding, or driving our horses, we are asking them to perform for us, rather like an athlete would. As with human athletes , there are always physical problems surrounding any form of activity, this is a given. Human athletes require regular physiotherapy, therefore it follows that our equine athletes require some form of equine therapy.

Due to their nature, horses can and often do, create problems via trauma or injury. This can lead to a malfunction, or shortening of muscle fibres, or muscle spasm, and spinal misalignments. This tightening does not remain in an isolated area, it transmits from one muscle group to another, i.e the muscle spasm becomes larger, and unable to release by itself. This is when some form of equine therapy is required to release the spasm, and to help restore normal range of motion and function.

Why do Muscle Spasms Require Treatment?

A spasm is a group of muscle fibres held in tetanic contraction, unable to secure its own release. It is a rigid knot of malfunctioning muscle, and can be felt on palpation. Once present, spasms become aggravated and recruit more fibres. The spasm becomes larger, causing pressure, discomfort and pain leading to resistance in the horse. These are warning signs that there is a problem, and the sooner it is dealt with ,the quicker it can be resolved. Chronic muscle spasms lead to compensation in movement, strain, injury and spinal misalignments.

In his book, Beating Muscle Injuries, Jack Meagher states: “ The horse`s body is like a machine, as long as each part functions freely, the machine functions smoothly and efficiently. A malfunction in any part of the machine will have its effect upon the entire machine.”

What is Equine Therapy and How Does it Work?

There are various forms of equine therapy available ,most of which aim to create physical releases in the muscle and skeletal structures. Equine Spinal Therapy or various soft tissue techniques are often used to treat horses with neck, back, pelvic or muscle pain. They can often be effective in cases of reduced or poor performance in horses where no known cause can be found. Here is a brief summary of a few of those techniques.

Spinal Manipulation

Spinal manipulation works directly on the skeletal structures to facilitate releases in the deep muscles surrounding the spinal column and pelvis as well as acting on the nervous system to allow those releases to take place. Equine Spinal Therapy aligns and balances the musculoskeletal system in a gentle way, without force. In Pauline`s opinion, this is an extremely effective tool in the treatment of muscular and skeletal problems which can cause back pain in horses.

Trigger Point Therapy

Direct pressure is applied with the fingertips or thumb to provide a deep and long lasting increase in circulation. Trigger point, or stress point therapy relies upon locating and releasing the exact spot which is in spasm. The increase in circulation stimulated by trigger point therapy helps to soften the afflicted muscles, and help them to restore normal function.

Cross Fibre Friction

This is a therapeutic motion to hypertonic muscle fibres ( muscle spasms) to help restore normal motion. It helps to spread and separate the muscle fibres allowing them to lengthen and shorten in the correct manner. Pauline applies the pressure across the muscle fibres to help relieve the spasms, stimulate the neuroreceptors and help allow the muscle fibres to work correctly. She often uses this technique in conjunction with trigger point therapy to soften the muscular and connective tissues before applying spinal manipulation to the skeletal structures.

Compression

This is a rhythmical pumping movement, compressing the muscle against bone. Pauline uses this as a tool to assess range of motion both pre and post treatment. However, she also uses this technique to facilitate releases in the musculoskeletal system in specific areas.

The Effects of Equine Therapy on Athletic Performance in Horses

Most of the evidence to support Equine Spinal Therapy and Equine Sports Massage is anecdotal. However, Pauline recently found documented evidence of measurable improvements in range of motion in horses following equine therapy. The study reveals that the following techniques all facilitate an increase in range of motion in muscle tissue:

• Direct Pressure or Trigger Point Therapy
• Cross Fibre Friction
• Compression

There is currently ongoing research to document the effects of equine spinal therapy on performance, and the results will be available later this year. We all know that the results will be positive as we have all seen, felt and experienced them. However, working as an Equine Therapist it is useful to be able to endorse my work.

If you would like to find out more about Equine Spinal Therapy and/or Equine Therapy techniques or even visit our Equine Therapy Centre, please contact Pauline for more details on 07791 423772

Stretching your horse after exercise can be helpful in maintaining correct muscle tone as well as elasticity and flexibility in the muscles. This is important in allowing the horse to move freely without restriction, and to help prevent muscle spasms and spinal misalignments from occurring. Pauline often stretches the horse`s limbs and back following equine spinal therapy to help re educate the muscles and re establish correct muscle tone.

Chronic cases of hypertonic muscles or muscle spasms can lead to spinal misalignments which do not resolve by themselves. Equine Spinal Therapy realigns and balances the muscular and skeletal system in a gentle way allowing releases to take place without force.

Signs of muscular problems or spinal misalignments

The following are signs that there may be a problem in the muscles of the hindquarters:

• Shortened stride
• Not tracking up
• Taking poles out behind
• Resisting lateral movement
• Looking stiff behind
• Poor impulsion
• Scuffing with hindleg
• Back pain
• Behavioural problems

Hamstring Stretches for Horses

The horse`s hamstring group of muscles consist of the semimembranosus and semitendinosus, and run from the root of the horses tail, over the ischial tuberosity, ( part of the pelvis) to tendons and fascia just above the hock. Extensions from the hamstrings join with the superficial digital tendon at the hocks. This means that ground forces from the hoof can act on the ischial tuberosity thus affecting the pelvis, lumbar and sacral vertebrae and sacroiliac joint.

In practise, when the hamstring group of muscles are tight or in spasm, there will be a knock on effect on the structures of the horse`s pelvis, therefore affecting the biomechanics of movement of the hind limb ,and rounding of the horse`s back.

When performing this stretch, there will also be a stretch on associated muscles in the hindquarters such as the biceps femoris and gluteal group of muscles, all important in hip extension, forward movement and impulsion. This exercise also helps to mobilise the lumbosacral junction, important in the rounding of the horses back.

How to Perform a Hamstring Stretch

• Perform the stretch AFTER the horse has worked, and his muscles are warm
• Must be carried out in a calm, relaxed manner
• It is useful to compare the range of motion from one side to the other( may indicate problem)
• Initially lift and flex the limb
• Place one hand above the fetlock, and the other in behind the pastern
• Do not interlock the fingers
• Gently and slowly apply slight forward pressure
• Allow the horse to give the leg, do not force
• Hold for 30 – 45 seconds
• Praise and release
• Repeat on the other hind limb
• Eventually you should be able to increase the stretch
• Repeat the exercise daily on both hind limbs after exercise

When to call an Equine Therapist ?

It is wise to arrange for an Equine Spinal Therapist to check your horse at least twice a year, although monthly sessions are the ideal.  This way, back and muscle problems can be picked up quickly and resolved before they get worse. However, if you notice uncharacteristic changes in the behaviour of your horse, or his movement, it is recommended to get him checked straight away.

Please note that Equine Spinal Therapy is not a substitute for routine veterinary care.

If you would like to find our more about the different stretches for horses or how Pauline could help you, please call 07791 423 772.

The photo on the left is on the day of treatment. This was Zigzags normal stance, with his hindlimbs out behind him, and the right forelimbs always in front of the left.

The photo on the right is one month later after just one treatment, and a series of stretches done by his owner. As you can see, the difference in his posture is hugely improved. His hindlimbs are now  carried more underneath his body. This has then allowed his back to come up, and lighten his forehand. He is now able to take his weight equally on both front limbs, and is happy to stand square.

Zigzag had a chronic problem which had been ongoing for some time. He was exhibiting some hypertonicity in the Longissimus dorsi muscles and gluteals unilaterally.  It was also likely that he had issues in the deep hip  flexor group of psoas muscles. This was affecting the biomechanics of the sacro iliac joint, sacrum and pelvis, and hence also affected his gait.  He also showed some restrictions through the cervical vertebrae.  Following equine spinal therapy treatment along the vertebrae, and muscle releases, Zigzags owner was given a programme of therapeutic stretches to create further  releases in the  deep pelvic  muscles. As a result, he is a much happier horse, and as you can see from the photos his posture is much improved.

“Pauline has a deep knowledge of horse anatomy and is able to work sensitively with the horses to help them find physical release. My horses look softer and more relaxed once she has given them an equine therapy session. I would not hesitate to recommend Pauline to anyone with a horse.” Zigzags owner – Jane

Horses can suffer back and muscle pain as well as humans. We often misinterpret this as bad behaviour.

So what are the possible signs that your horse may be suffering back or muscle discomfort?

The signs can be very subtle, as often our horses continue to perform for us despite their back ,neck, pelvic  or muscle pain.  For example; swishing of the tail; teeth grinding; sensitivity on grooming; or general grumpiness when being tacked up or ridden could be a sign of musculoskeletal pain. Other signs may be more obvious, such as bucking; napping; rearing; refusing; taking poles out; or general poor performance. It is important to note any SUDDEN changes in behaviour, as this can be particularly indicative of a muscle or spinal problem. Working as an Equine Therapist, Pauline can establish whether there are any muscular problems or spinal misalignments which may require treatment.

So what may cause back or muscle pain in my horse?

Obvious causes such as trauma, accident, kick, fall, slip, or more subtle causes such as ill fitting tack, rider imbalance, hoof balance or dentistry can all impact on the musculoskeletal system.

Horses were not designed to carry a rider, therefore balancing the weight of the rider, as well as accommodating a saddle may in itself create problems, especially if the rider is crooked or unbalanced. Ill fitting tack, particularly saddles can cause pressure points, leading to muscle pain and consequently resistance when ridden.  We also expect that our horses should perform for us, whether it be to jump a course of show jumps, or hack around the lanes. Pauline says that any horse can benefit from McTimoney- Corley therapy, but that it is also useful as a  maintenance, or check up tool, a bit like an MOT for your car.

How often should I get my horse checked?

Regular check ups are important, as problems can be detected early, and treated before resistances are set up. Pauline says that any uncharacteristic changes in behaviour should be a sign that your Equine Therapist needs to visit. Pauline takes a holistic approach and aims to assess the horse as a whole to eliminate the cause, not just treat the symptoms.

It should be noted that Equine Therapy is not a substitute for routine veterinary care, but rather a compliment to it.

Connie

Connie, a 7 year old cob was exhibiting some behavioural issues, and showing signs of discomfort when being ridden, especially down hill. Pauline noticed that Connie had croup high conformation which was probably contributing somewhat to her discomfort, and possible pressure points behind the scapula  . Connie was treated with targetted spinal therapy, and trigger point therapy to release muscle spasms. Pauline then helped Zoe  with a schooling programme to help Connie build the correct musculature, and improve her balance. 

“Pauline has really helped me with my 7 year old Irish Cross mare, Connie.  When we bought her she had not had much schooling at all and was very imbalanced.  I asked Pauline to check her back to make sure that her imbalance was not due to pain.  Pauline was great with her.  She has a really lovely manner with horses and was able to sort out a few problem areas in her back with one treatment.

As well as being a Spinal Therapist, Pauline is also a riding instructor, so was able to confirm that her imbalance was mainly due to lack of schooling.  I now have weekly lessons with Pauline who is very patient with us both.  We have both improved a lot since Pauline first came, and I am so excited about the progress we are making together.  I would recommend Pauline to anyone she has been a massive help.”

“I just wanted to say a huge thanks for all you have done for Summer, we are so pleased that Judy recommended you and will be doing our best to spread the word!

Summer thoroughly enjoys her treatment and the results of your patient work are self evident, her back has been transformed from rock solid to soft and comfortable and her outline work has improved dramatically.

Alex and I have learnt a lot from listening and watching  and  just wish you treated humans!”