Horses communicate their pain and discomfort in ways that are very similar to humans! Often, changes in behavior, gait, appetite, or energy level can signal that your animal might be in some level of discomfort and could benefit from Chiropractic care.
Performance and working horses are Dr. Goodhart’s specialty! Their bodies undergo tremendous stress during competitions and day work, which cause misalignments in their spine and extremities.
Keeping their structure properly aligned ensures that they will be able to function and perform at their best!
Here is a list of some of the most common symptoms that may indicate your horse could benefit from Chiropractic care. (Please note this list is not all-inclusive).
Symptoms Seen in Horses
Slower performance times
Cross-firing
Constant head shaking
Reluctance to pick up leads and/or gaits
Decreased performance
Does not like to be touched in certain areas
Uncharacteristic head tossing or feeling they're "bound up" during a run
Lameness / altered gait
Sudden behavioral changes
Head tilt
Pain at the poll
Will not/cannot collect properly
Refusal or reluctance to turn, bend, or flex in a certain direction
Cinchy
Resents mounting
Will not engage hind end
Knocks jumps
Hock/stifle pain or sensitivity
Uncharacteristic bucking
Hunter’s bump
Roach back
*Please note that this list is not all inclusive nor conclusive. Animal Chiropractic does not replace traditional veterinary medicine, but works very well in conjunction with it. Dr. Goodhart will work with your veterinarian as needed to ensure safe and therapeutic care of your animal to restore and maintain optimal function and health.
Chiropractic is a wonderful means of keeping your animal’s spine and joints healthy, as well as maintaining optimal athletic performance!
Chiropractic adjustments generally do not cause pain. Animals who present with moderate to severe pain may experience some discomfort initially because of the underlying injury or dysfunction. However, your animal’s symptoms are taken into consideration while formulating a personalized treatment plan that allows your horse’s body to heal and achieve normal function faster.