Equine Rehabilitation: Keep the Horse in Motion

Rehabilitation is an integral part of human medicine and is being performed by mainly physiotherapist. In horses, box rest for prolonged periods of time are contraindicated if possible and rehabilitation has become a very important part in veterinary medicine. Techniques used in the equine field are mainly based on human medicine and are applicable in horses with equine spinal-related problems, prevention or treatment of musculoskeletal injuries, support and treatment of postsurgical problems and also in the support of performance levels enhancement. The goal of rehabilitation is to help horses to return to its original or higher functional level.

Many important factors determine the efficiency and outcome of a rehabilitation process. Specific rehabilitation programmes are dependent upon type of musculoskeletal injury and the type or level of sports activity. Cooperation between different partners, especially between physiotherapists – veterinarians – horse owner, is crucial in this process, in which good communication and knowledge are essential.

Thorough clinical assessment and evaluation, by mainly using your hands and eyes, are essential and the rehabilitation programme should be implemented around specific goals. Knowledge of biomechanics and normal movement in specific horses is essential to effectively influence the horse`s return to full function.

Constant re-evaluation at different time points by using static assessments, gait analysis, specific palpation and supplementary diagnostics are important to determine the evolution of the deficit.

Numerous physiotherapeutic (massage, aquatherapy, electro- and magnetic field therapy) and manual therapeutic techniques are applied in combination with conventional veterinary medicine alongside the rehabilitation programme to restore the horse`s function, based on the result of the clinical assessments. Another important part of the rehabilitation process is the training of the equine spinal column to stimulate the whole function and to develop strength, function and coordination of the horse. Active training can be started after pain cessation and improvement of flexibility, by using exercises at rest or in motion (unridden / ridden). In this process of training, it is essential to be surrounded by very skilled professionals who can help the horse and rider to obtain the desired goals.

In conclusion, rehabilitation has to become integral part of veterinary medicine and specific knowledge about this matter is essential for every player in this process.