The Use of Physiotherapy during a Show or Rehabilitation Periods

Physiotherapy is considered to be a well known specialised paramedic support in human medicine. Animal physiotherapy has recently become standard veterinary treatment in many European countries. Physiotherapy is defined as a therapy using physical approaches to promote, maintain and restore physical, psychological and social well being. Physical therapy in equines has been part of surgical or orthopaedic strategies, is a pure supporting treatment and can reduce the time of recovery. Different techniques, including massage, electrotherapy and thermotherapy, are used in treating horses. One of its main focus is losing up muscle cramps.
This contribution provides an overview of the possibilities of physiotherapy in the horse during shows and rehabilitation periods.
Special attention is drawn to electrotherapy. Furthermore, numerous therapy forms exist that can, in part, be performed by the horse keeper or owner.
All physiotherapeutical treatments should be performed with reconfirmation of a veterinarian.