Equine physical therapy: what is it, benefits and treatments?

Equine physiotherapy is a practice focused on the physical treatment of horses. Its aim is to improve mobility, prevent injuries, and optimize performance through non-invasive methods. This discipline employs various techniques to maintain or restore the horse's muscular and joint balance, which is essential for its overall well-being and physical performance.

Benefits of physiotherapy in horses

Equestrian physiotherapy provides multiple benefits, both for competition horses and those involved in intense physical tasks. Some of the main benefits include:

• Injury prevention: Regular treatment allows the detection and correction of physical issues before they develop into serious injuries.
• Faster recovery: In cases of injury or surgery, physiotherapy accelerates recovery, helping the horse return to its optimal state.
• Improved performance: Horses with good physical health tend to perform better in competitions or physical activities.
• Pain reduction: By relieving muscle tension and correcting imbalances, pain is reduced, improving the animal's quality of life.

Types of physiotherapeutic treatments

Equine physiotherapy treatments are varied and applied according to the horse's needs. Some of the most commonly used include:

• Therapeutic massages: Help relax muscles, improve blood circulation, and relieve tension.
• Manual therapies: Manipulation techniques that correct joint dysfunctions and improve mobility.
• Electrotherapy: Used to stimulate muscles and nerves, accelerating recovery in injured horses.
• Laser and ultrasound therapies: Effective in reducing inflammation and promoting healing of damaged tissues.

Practical example

arabigans.com has provided a very interesting explanatory class on equine physiotherapy:

What types of horses should receive equine physiotherapy?

Any horse can benefit, but there are certain groups that should consider it as part of their regular routine:

• High-performance horses: Those participating in competitions or equestrian sports need to stay in optimal physical condition.
• Working horses: Horses involved in intense physical activities need to prevent wear and injuries.
• Horses in rehabilitation: After an injury or surgery, physiotherapy is key to proper and speedy recovery.
• Older horses: Senior horses may suffer from joint or muscle problems that require special attention.

Equine physiotherapy is a key tool for the well-being and performance of horses. From injury prevention to performance improvement in high-performance or working horses, this discipline offers significant benefits for the animal. With techniques such as massages, electrotherapy, and manual therapies, a better quality of life can be ensured for horses, especially those in rehabilitation or of advanced age.