The vertebral column is formed by a joined sequence of individual barrel shaped vertebrae which are somewhat distant from the skin surface. The structure which can be felt under the skin surface is in fact the spinous process which is a length of bone attached to the body of the vertebrae. The spinal cord passes through the center of each vertebrae as it travels from the brain down through the spinal column. Branching nerves from the spinal cord carry information from the brain to all the organs, muscles, tissues and cells of the body. All body cells require nervous energy to function properly.

Each vertebrae is flexibly connected with the one both behind and in front on several different levels, forming an intricate joint. Muscle fibers, ligaments and dense connective tissue bind each vertebrae to its immediate and distant neighbors in a complex structure. This allows flexibility in the spine.

Misalignment or sublimation, which is defined as a vertebrae that is unable to move (ariculate) correctly, causes irritation to the nerves and muscles which affect movement and mobility. Subluxation interferes with flexibility of the back and neck and disrupts the functioning of the nervous system. This can lead to stiffness, discomfort, resistance, decreased performance, muscle spasms and pain. Horses will show compensatory changes in posture and movement, most often due to referral of weight.

Horse chiropractics is the manual maneuvering of the vertebral structure to ensure nervous system control and complete muscle coordination. It is a drugless, non invasive treatment that can help you to realize your horses full potential and relieve it's pain.