Equine physiotherapy supports the horse’s body through targeted, evidence-based techniques designed to improve movement, reduce discomfort, and enhance overall performance. Whether your horse is in regular work, recovering from injury, or simply needs routine maintenance, physiotherapy helps keep them comfortable, supple, and better able to perform their job.
What Is Equine Physiotherapy?
Equine physiotherapy focuses on assessing and treating the horse’s musculoskeletal system. Treatment helps address tightness, stiffness, asymmetry, and compensation patterns that can develop from exercise, saddle fit, conformation, or previous injuries.
Typical areas of focus include:
Muscular tension and soreness
Restriction in the back, neck, poll, or hind end
Reduced range of motion
Balance and posture issues
Soft tissue injuries
Poor performance or reduced willingness to work
What This Service Includes
A full physiotherapy session typically involves:
1. Initial Assessment
Observation of movement in-hand
Palpation of muscles, soft tissues, and joints
Posture, symmetry, and gait evaluation
Discussion of history, workload, and any concerns
2. Hands-On Treatment
Depending on your horse’s needs, treatment may include:
Massage and soft tissue release
Myofascial techniques
Stretching and mobilisation
Trigger point work
Range-of-motion exercises
Gentle corrective exercises
3. Aftercare & Exercise Plan
After treatment, you’ll receive tailored guidance such as:
Warm-up and cool-down routines
Stretching exercises
Strength-building activities
Management tips for ongoing comfort
When to book follow-up treatment
Signs Your Horse May Benefit
You may notice:
Stiffness when starting work
Difficulty bending left/right
Uneven contact or reluctance to go forward
Behavioural changes under saddle
Resistance to certain movements
Shortened stride or loss of impulsion
Saddle slipping or one-sidedness
Any of these can indicate muscular imbalance or discomfort that physiotherapy can help address.
Benefits of Regular Physiotherapy
Routine physiotherapy can:
Improve flexibility and range of motion
Reduce tension and soreness
Support rehabilitation after injury
Prevent compensatory patterns
Enhance performance and suppleness
Promote better posture and engagement
Support long-term physical health
Who This Service Is For
Equine physiotherapy is suitable for:
Competition horses
Leisure and hacking horses
Young horses starting work
Older horses needing mobility support
Horses returning from injury
Horses with behavioural or performance changes
Important Note
Physiotherapy is complementary to veterinary care.
If any concerns emerge during assessment that indicate pain, lameness, or underlying conditions, you may be advised to consult your vet, dentist, or saddle fitter before continuing.