Written by Katie Stone.

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An equine chiropractor adjusting a horse. Photo Credit: HorseHarmonics.

Since Furi moved to his new barn, we’ve had some struggles when riding. He was not wanting to pick up and hold his leads. After having the barn owner, who is extremely knowledgeable and certified, take a look at him, she noticed how uneven his muscles are and how sensitive his back was. She also believed his shoulder was out. She recommended sweating out his back and using the Theraplate for muscle atrophy for a full week.

After doing that for a week, I had an equine chiropractor examine him. It was my first experience with an equine chiropractor, and as far as I know, It was Furi’s, as well. Furi is usually well-behaved for the vet and farrier, so I was hoping he would be for the chiropractor as well. However, I had some worries because it was a new experience and one that might be painful for him.

The equine chiropractor asked me to walk Furi up to him, and he was able to get a general idea of what was going on. He asked me to back Furi as he stood behind him also. While the chiropractor worked on Furi, I held the lead rope. The chiropractor immediately felt and noticed sensitivity in my horse’s back. He also was very surprised at how tight Furi was in and how little range of motion he had where his shoulders were, specifically the right shoulder. He stated that my horse was the tightest horse he had seen in a long time!

All of this completely shocked me. However, Furi is also 16 years old and has never had anything done previously so I kind of expected him to have some issues. The chiropractor also worked out a few other tight spots and suggested I use liniment on the point of shoulders, sternum, and inside of the hock. He also showed me a few stretches to do weekly to help Furi’s shoulders.

A horse (and handler) utilizing the Theraplate. Photo Credit: HorseAndMan.com

Overall, the adjustment lasted 20 – 25 minutes. During that time, my horse was extremely relaxed and compliant with everything being done. As for results, prior to the adjustment, Furi had a particular spot along his spine that was hard; I just thought it was his spine. However, I noticed this particular spot was gone when I went to put him away. It was truly amazing to see the difference. I have been riding as consistently as I can since the adjustment (at least 4 days a week), and he has been doing very well! I’ve noticed major improvements in his canter, and we are working on long and low to build up his topline. I’ve also been continuing to use the Theraplate for muscle atrophy at least 3 – 4 times a week.

Riding wise, we have only been focusing on flat work, and we will hopefully be jumping during winter break when we go home for the month! I really feel that the chiropractor helped my horse, and I am interested in having him adjusted again. After mine and Furi’s experience, I really recommend checking out ways to help your horse feel their best, whether it’s by learning stretching techniques to use on your own or by contracting a certified equine chiropractor to get your horse examined and potentially adjusted.