Animal Osteopathy

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What is Animal Osteopathy?

Animal osteopathy is pretty much the same as human osteopathy, where the osteopath helps to restore structural and physiological harmony in the tissues and joints.

What can an Animal Osteopath help with?

A lot of people consider osteopaths as treating just bad backs but it can also help in improving any of the following:

  • Stiffness in different areas of the body i.e. shoulders or hips etc
  • Stiffness in older animals
  • Gait issues
  • Problems with head carriage
  • Muscle imbalance and spasms
  • Uneven muscle bulk

Some problems may not present as obvious physical issues but say with horses it can manifest as:

  • Changes in behaviour: bucking, bolting, rearing, kicking, and refusing to jump
  • Difficulties or issues with saddling, unable to stand still or relax
  • Hyper-sensitivity to clipping, brushing or difficulty shoeing

With dogs it can be similar in regards:

  • Changes in behaviour
  • Reduced performance, especially with Greyhounds
  • General sensitivity

Treatment can not only help with the above but also assist with:

  • Rehabilitation after injury
  • Rehabilitation and support with
  • Conditions such as arthritis

When would be best to contact an Animal Osteopath?

As soon as you feel your horse and dog is not acting at their best, starts to show unusual signs (as discussed above) or changes in their behaviour.

Do I need to consult my vet?

In one word ‘yes’, to treat an animal the owner must contact their vet first (Veterinary Act 1956). Most vets are aware of the benefits of complementary treatment for animals and will readily give their permission for the animal to be treated. If you are unsure what to do please feel free to contact us.

What will treatment involve?

The initial treatment will consist of taking a case history, looking at the onset of the problem(s), veterinary history, previous treatments, working history of the animal (if any) and other general questions. After this we will look at the animal standing, walking, running and any other movements that we feel is required.. Once the active examinations have taken place a hands on examination will follow; examining the joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments. Once this has been done and after consultation with the owner treatment will commence.

Treatment may consist of any of the following, and is tailored to the animal and owner:

  • Massage
  • Stretching techniques
  • Trigger point
  • Manipulation
  • Therapeutic ultrasound

To help with some of the above, we use a tool called FascialEdge, specifically developed for the treatment of animals.

In just a short time it can help relieve symptoms and breakdown inflammation in tissues.

How long does the treatment take?

Initial treatments can be between 40-60 minutes and follow up treatments are between 30-40 minutes.

Should I have regular treatments for my animal(s)?

Ideally yes…
Horses are historically prey animals so they try to hide any issues they have, thus for the horse to show signs of discomfort it can be due to long-standing issues. Therefore, having regular treatments can be extremely beneficial for you and your horse.
For greyhounds, regular treatment is essential to keep them at peak performance, exactly the same as any elite athlete.

Is treatment covered on my animal insurance?

The majority of animal insurers will cover treatment delivered by a registered osteopath, but you need approval and referral from your vet. Always check with your insurer before treatment.

What areas do you cover?

We cover most of Essex, including Thurrock, Basildon, Ilford, Romford, Brentwood, Billericay, Southend, Chelmsford, Colchester, Tiptree and surrounding areas, contact us to find out more information.

How much does treatment cost?

Prices on enquiry but we are willing to offer discounts for multiple bookings. Please contact us to discuss this further.

Recommendations

‘Actually jealous of Ryan’s (My horse) session with the osteopath today! Thank you, Ben was fantastic and has got a friend for life in Ryan now ? will absolutely be recommending him and using him again!’

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Contact Us

50, Poley Road,
Stanford Le Hope,
Essex SS17 0JJ

07711 521233
info@essexosteo.co.uk

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