Veterinary Chiropractic Therapy

The anatomy of your horse, as well as the physical demands put upon them during both stance and movement, are unique.   Restrictions surrounding the spine and limb joints, along with changes in tension within the soft tissue surrounding them, can lead to stiffness, pain and a decreased range of motion.  Spinal manipulation, a veterinary-specific form of chiropractic therapy, aims to restore balance and comfort through directed manual adjustments. Indications for this type of therapy may include:

  • Recovery from lameness or a period of lay-up

  • Abnormal head carriage

  • Uneven contact in the bridle or reluctance to accept bit contact

  • Unexplained instances of spooking, bucking, or unusual behavior

  • Back pain

  • Poor performance

  • Uneven gait

  • Asymmetrical sweating

  • Persistent saddle slip

  • Trouble changing or maintaining correct canter lead

What to Expect at Your Appointment?

1- Assessment of a horse’s movement

Dr. Parisio begins every appointment with a brief observation of how your horse is moving head to tail.  This assessment is always performed at the walk, unmounted, and is not to be considered a traditional “lameness exam”.

2- Motion palpation and adjustment

This involves specialized, manual palpation along the horse’s body. When “restrictions” (regions of decreased mobility) are felt, a rapid, specifically directed force is applied by hand.

3- Aftercare and management

All horses are manipulated without the use of chemical (sedation) restraint. It is preferable to not ride your horse for 24 hrs after a treatment session, allowing them to adjust comfortably to this therapy. If possible, it is also advisable to not compete your horse within 3 days after an adjustment for maximum benefit and comfort.

4- Frequency of repeat therapy sessions

The benefit of repeat therapy sessions is unique to each horse. Typically, we re-evaluate and manipulate patients more frequently (2-4 week time frame) initially, extending the length between treatments as the horse responds and recovers.  Many patients, especially those with ongoing soundness issues or those in active work, receive therapy on a more regular basis to maintain comfort and balance.

There are some instances when this form of therapy is NOT safe or appropriate.  This would include:

  • Symptoms of neurologic disease, especially when a horse has trouble standing or walking normally

  • Acute onset and/or severe lameness

  • Horses suffering from skin disease or a wound

  • Horses who are ill, particularly with fever or respiratory symptoms

  • If you are unsure if spinal manipulation (veterinary chiropractic therapy) is appropriate for your horse, it is best to check with your regular veterinarian first.  Dr. Parisio is also happy to answer any questions you may have.