The Treatment Process

Previous History

As much history will be taken as possible, looking at the animals past and existing conditions.  Exercise, work and management will be considered and any reported symptoms noted.  This information alongside gait analysis and palpation will identify factors that may be contributing to the animal’s condition.  Emma will also explain about the therapies used and answer any questions.

This history combined with a physical examination will ensure that there are no contra-indications to treatment.  If it is not in the animal’s best interest to be treated, Emma will refer the animal to a Veterinary Surgeon.

Assessment of Gait

Watching carefully how an animal moves in walk and trot will identify gait abnormalities, asymmetries and stiffness.  Horses may need to be seen ridden or lunged.

Palpation

By now Emma will have a good indication of the location of the problem.  Thorough palpation of the animal’s joints, bones and muscles will then locate muscle spasm, misalignment, asymmetry and areas of dysfunction.

Treatment

Misalignments will be realigned by hand using high velocity, low impact adjustments.  These will be delivered with the correct speed, force and direction.  The speed of the adjustment overcomes the tension within the soft tissue attached to the misaligned joint.  Often after horses receive their first adjustment they lick and chew and become quite sleepy.  Dogs usually sleep for a prolonged period after treatment.

Aftercare

It is important to remember that healing is a process, not an event!  Therefore it will take time for the animal to adapt to the changes that have been made.   It is helpful to think about Emma initiating the process and the animal completing it.  It is not uncommon to see a slight worsening of symptoms 24 hours after treatment, before seeing improvement.  This is completely normal and nothing to worry about.

Recommendations of rest, exercise and changes in management (where appropriate) will be offered so that the animal can best utilise the treatment.