Chiropractic is much more than treating bones out of place. The vertebrae that encompass the spine surround and protect the spinal cord and major nerve roots. Life force is generated in the brain and transmitted through these nerves to the organs. So, if a vertebra is subluxated, it is more than pain or facilitation that your horse feels, it is also causing diminished activity and vitality of the organs connected to that vertebral segment. Potentially, this can cause digestive, immune and glandular imbalances.
Subluxation of joints is recognized by lessened motion of the joints, by slight changes in the position of the articulating bones, and by pain. The surrounding muscles and connective tissue will splint to protect the area. This alteration of movement in the vertebral joints is known as “kinesiopathy.” Although most chiropractors adjust the spine, be sure that your chiropractor pays attention to the extremities as well.
Performance horses greatly benefit from regular chiropractic care. There are a plethora of different schools of thought in both the human and equine chiropractic fields. Watch out for excessive long lever techniques and the hammer and mallet folks with no formal training! Remember, by definition a subluxation can be a slight change in the position of bones. Sometimes you get all the adjustment you need from a subtle “network chiropractic” contact on the sacro-tuberous ligament or on the occiput. The American Veterinary Chiropractic Association certifies both DCs and vets to perform chiropractic. This is a good resource.
Lastly, be sure your chiropractor evaluates the balance of the horse’s feet and teeth (jaw) as well as extremities. If these parts are out of balance the adjustment will not hold long if at all. Then, you are wasting your time and money.
This tip was brought to you by KAM’s “Equine Learning Circle” (KELC) FREE webinars, which will take place twice a month starting in 2011. January 10th will focus on gut and digestion and January 31st on what to feed your horse. Go to www.kamanimalservices.com to sign up for these webinars. Space is limited. The KELC FREE webinar will conclude with a question and answer session, so be ready with your nutrition questions.