Last updated: 20 July 2006
Chiropractic is a valuable form of treatment not only for humans but for animals too!
What is Chiropractic?
Chiropractic is concerned with structure of the spine and other joints and the way in which this affects the functioning of the nerves and muscles.
The spine in humans as with other animals is the framework which protects the spinal cord. The nerves which originate from the spinal cord run through small openings between the vertebrae and out to various areas in the body. The spinal cord and nerves act as the central relay station for important messages between the brain and the muscles, organs and skin.
In humans there are 24 bones (vertebrae) with 23 moveable discs which act as shock absorbers. From this 31 pairs of nerves arise from the spinal cord and exit from small openings along the length of the spine. In horses there are 31 vertebrae and 42 pairs of nerves, in dogs there are 27 vertebrae and 36 pairs of nerves.
Spinal movement therefore is made up of lots of little joints all working together to produce one smooth movement. Disruption of the movement in even one small joint limits the spinal movement and its overall smoothness . Areas of abnormal movement are known as subluxations. Subluxations involve abnormal joint movement, muscle spasm or weakness and nerve irritation which can then affect the messages getting to and from the brain to the skin, muscles and organs.
What causes disruption to movement in the small joints of the spine? Things such as falls, heavy lifting etc in humans, but in animals - jumping up/down from heights , falls, paddock accidents, ill fitting saddles and gear, etc.
What is Veterinary Chiropractic?
Veterinary Chiropractic care is a safe, effective form of treatment which aims to identify areas where the animals body is not working properly. These areas are then assessed to see whether chiropractic care is appropriate.
If appropriate , Veterinary Chiropractic treatment will involve spinal adjustments (and other joints) as well as Soft Tissue Therapy (Massage) treatments such as myofascial release, craniosacral therapy and stretching.
All techniques are best performed gently to maintain the trust and relaxation of the patient . Initially animals may be wary about what is happening but soon relax, and many look forward to, and enjoy the treatment.
In some cases it is quite appropriate and beneficial to your animal to have Chiropractic care whilst undergoing or following other treatments, but please discuss this with your Vet and Veterinary Chiropractor - it is essential for your animals wellbeing that we all work together !
Once a problem area has been treated the animals body is given time to adapt to the improved function and mobility and heal itself. This may be very quick if the problem is recent and not too severe, or may take longer and require further treatments if the problem is longstanding or chronic.
In some cases you may be given some stretches or massage exercises to do with your animal between visits which will assist in their recovery and help build up strength and muscle tone.
Does my Animal need Chiropractic Care?
Common Equine problems that can be assisted with Veterinary Chiropractic:
- Bucking / Pigrooting
- Resents grooming over certain areas
- Girthy / Galls
- Areas of abnormal sweating
- Stepping short
- Lameness ** In lameness cases it is advisable to have your horse assessed by your normal vet prior to Chiropractic treatment.
- Difficulty with canter leads
- Difficulty in collection
- Stiffness on one side
- Head shaking / head shy
- Loss of muscle bulk
Common Canine problems where Veterinary Chiropractic can be beneficial:
- Difficulty getting up or down stairs, in/out of bed
- Less interested in playing or being involved in usual daily activities
- Tires more quickly
- Whimpers, yelps or cries when groomed/picked up
- Temperament changes i.e. has become bad tempered or aggressive
- Is limping
- Skin problems in a confined area of its body
Who are Qualified Veterinary Chiropractors?
The only recognised qualification is the world renowned, two year course currently offered by RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia. It is open only to qualified Vets, Chiropractors and Osteopaths . It is your guarantee that your animal is being treated by someone with an understanding of your animal's problem and the necessary levels of knowledge and skill to safely treat it!
How do I find a Veterinary Chiropractor in my area?
Refer to the website of the Australian Veterinary Chiropractors Association : www.avca.com.au for a Veterinary Chiropractor working in an area close to you.
Contact us
Storybook Stud, Baxter, Victoria
Telephone: 03 5971 1976
Mobile: 0413 882 550
Email: susan@storybookstud.com.au