What is Veterinary Physiotherapy?
Equine veterinary physiotherapy is a hands-on treatment approach designed to reduce pain, improve mobility, and support recovery following injury, surgery, or changes in performance.
Using a combination of manual therapy, targeted rehabilitation exercises, and advanced techniques, each treatment plan is tailored to your horse’s individual needs, discipline, and workload.
Conditions We Treat:
Physiotherapy is particularly beneficial for:
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Orthopaedic Conditions
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Tendon and ligament injuries (including suspensory injuries)
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Osteoarthritis and joint stiffness
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Back pain and sacroiliac dysfunction
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Fractures and soft tissue injuries
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Muscle imbalance and postural asymmetry
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Neurological Conditions
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Neurological weakness and coordination deficits
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Nerve injuries
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Reduced proprioception and balance
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Post-neurological rehabilitation
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Post-Operative Care
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Orthopaedic surgery recovery
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Soft tissue surgery
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Muscle rebuilding and joint support
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Graduated return to work programmes
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Performance & Maintenance
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Reduced performance or changes in way of going
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Injury prevention and maintenance therapy
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Support for sport and race horses
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Young horse development and conditioning
How Physiotherapy Works
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Physiotherapy focuses on restoring normal movement and function while reducing pain and inflammation.
Treatment may include:
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Hands-on techniques (massage, myofascial release, joint mobilisation)
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Controlled rehabilitation exercises
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Stretching and range of motion work
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Supportive electrotherapies to aid healing
Who it Helps
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Physiotherapy is beneficial for horses of all ages and disciplines, from leisure horses to elite competition athletes.
It is particularly useful for:
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Horses recovering from injury or surgery
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Horses with orthopaedic or neurological conditions
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Horses showing stiffness, asymmetry, or behavioural changes under saddle
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Sport and race horses aiming to optimise performance
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Young horses in training and development
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Older horses requiring support for mobility and comfort
What to Expect From a Physiotherapy Session
Initial Appointment
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Full assessment of movement, posture, and musculoskeletal function
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Discussion of your horse’s history, management, and workload
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Palpation and range of motion assessment
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Tailored treatment plan
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Follow-Up Sessions
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Hands-on treatment and guided rehabilitation exercises
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Ongoing progress monitoring
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Advice on ridden work, management, and home exercises
All sessions are adapted to your horse’s temperament and comfort, with a calm, patient, and horse-centred approach throughout.
