Alternative equine therapies such as chiropractics, acupressure and massage are quickly becoming more recognized and sought after. I am very proud to be a part of this movement which allows a more holistic approach to treating many health and performance problems. Having said that, I am also a staunch supporter of necessary veterinary care. Chiropractics does not replace traditional veterinary medicine and surgery. I advise all horse owners to be proactive about their horses medical needs and seek veterinary attention when concerns or suspicions arise. Please be aware of the fact that while some veterinarians are open to the idea of equine chiropractics, others are not and may not support your decision to pursue alternative therapies.

Whether your horse is just starting to train, an active competitor, a retired competitor, a pleasure horse or a rescue, equine therapy is always something to consider. Chiropractics can increase the general health and well being of all of our equine partners, regardless of age or discipline. Listen to what your horse is trying to tell you, through performance and behavior so that you may facilitate his/her healing.

Performance Problems Indicating a Need for Chiropractic Care:

• "Cold backed" during mounting
• Slow to warm up or relax
• Resists work
• Reluctance to stride out,
• Hock, stifle, and obscure hind limb lameness
• Front leg lameness, stumbling and tripping
• Excessive shying, lack of concentration on rider and aids
• Rushes to or from fences, or refuses jumps
• Rushes downhill, or pulls uphill with the front end
  (exhibits improper use of back or hindquarters)
• Demonstrates an inability to travel straight
• is unwilling or unable to round the back or neck
• Displays difficulty maintaining impulsion or collection
• Twists over fences
• Falters or resists when making a transition
• Bucks or rears regularly
• Exhibits sudden, decreased speed in any timed sport
• Is slow out of the starting gate
• Ducks out of turns, turns wide
• Increases resistance as a riding session progresses

Behavioral Problems Indicating a Need for
Chiropractic Care:

• Objects to being saddled
• Unable to stand still or relax, or fidgets when being mounted
• Hypersensitive to brushing
• Exhibits a "bad attitude"
• Difficult to shoe
• Bucks or rolls excessively
• Rearranges the stall bedding constantly
• Displays repetitive behaviors
• Constant pointing or cocking hooves
• Assumes resting positions unusual for particular horse
  (camped out in front/behind)