Veterinary Physiotherapy

We are very fortunate enough to have regular Physiotherapy clinic’s with Joelle Steyt on a monthly basis at Shaw Farm in Todmorden. The beauty of bringing your horse to Joelle is that at Shaw Farm there is a large trot up area and access to an all weather arena for the initial consultation and assessment, giving Joelle a clearer overview of any issues with your equine and a very safe indoor treatment room.

Joelle Steyt is a Chartered Physiotherapist and has specialised in veterinary physiotherapy for the last 12 years. During this time she has worked closely with veterinary practitioners such as vets, master saddlers, farriers, dentists and trainers. She is well respected for her knowledge and skills across Yorkshire and we are very excited to be welcoming her to SFL.

What is veterinary physiotherapy?

Equine physiotherapy involves the assessment and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions in horses. It combines movement analysis with knowledge of the anatomy of the musculo-skeletal system in order to identify potential problems.

Chartered Physiotherapists are highly trained in the skilled use of their hands to detect, assess and treat soft tissue injuries that may cause lameness or poor performance. They are also extensively trained in rehabilitation techniques and are able to offer guidance on the best way to successfully rehabilitate your horse.

A variety of soft tissue techniques, joint mobilisation techniques and electrotherapy treatments are incorporated into veterinary physiotherapy treatments as appropriate. This helps your horse to be in the best physical condition, enabling him to perform to the level that you require. Soft tissue injuries involving muscle, tendon, joint capsule or ligament can be treated successfully with physiotherapy if used correctly and at the right time.

Physiotherapy can also aid in the rehabilitation process following orthopaedic surgery. Both spinal and peripheral conditions respond well to physiotherapy. Physiotherapy is not an alternative but often an essential adjunct to conventional veterinary medicine. Treatment in the early stages of injury is most beneficial and therefore prompt referral to the physiotherapist from the veterinary surgeon is recommended. Many veterinarians do not ask for physiotherapy intervention until all else has failed and the owner is pestering for 'something to be done'. Treatment at this stage is often less effective and this means that 'physiotherapy' is looked upon as a waste of time and money.

Physiotherapy should not be thought of as a last resort, it is very effective when used at the appropriate time. The horse is an athlete whether he is used for light hacking or top level competition. Routine maintenance of the horse's neuromuscular and muscular-skeletal systems will help to ensure he remains in peak condition. In accordance with the Veterinary Act 1966, it is a requirement that the Physiotherapist has veterinary consent prior to treat your horse. We aim to work as a team alongside your vet, farrier, saddler and trainer to offer your horse the best possible care.

Why does my horse need physio?

Animals can't tell us where their pain is or if they have injured themselves, and they are often clever at hiding their discomfort.

Schooling problems, behavioural problems or reduced performance can all be caused by pain, muscle weakness or joint stiffness. Equally your horse may have suffered a direct injury ad may need rehabilitation to get back to its previous level of workload.

Horses of today are asked to do far more than evolution could have expected, with greater pressure to perform at high standards. It is not surprising that injuries occur. Pain or discomfort in any degree is inhibiting and detracts from the performance ability of the horse. Physiotherapy aims to restore flexibility and normal range of movement in the musculoskeletal system there where movement is restricted and painful. The balance needs to be restored and can be treated successfully with physiotherapy if used correctly and at the right time. The aim is to restore and maintain health, soundness and performance by decreasing pain and by improving movement. Physiotherapy can also aid in the rehabilitation process following orthopaedic surgery.

For more information and details as to when your horse may require physiotherapy and any further information please follow the link to Joelle’s website.

http://www.equiphys.com

Clinics at Shaw Farm Liveries

Thursday 8th September

Thursday 6th October

Thursday 10th November

Thursday 8th December

 Treatment usually takes a minimum of 1 hour.
Please contact Joelle’s PA Diana to book onto any of the clinics (leave answer phone if no answer) 07960 591224. Please do not book in with Esther or any of the yard staff, all bookings must be made direct with Joelle.