What Is Chiropractic?

Chiropractic is a holistic form of healthcare that utilizes the body’s innate healing ability. Whether human or animal, this ability is controlled by the nervous system (brain, spinal cord, and nerves). The brain sends a message through the spinal cord and nerves to control every single cell, tissue, and organ in the body. We look to the spine because that is what houses the spinal cord and where the nerves exit to the area of the body that they supply. When the spine is in alignment and moving properly, the nervous system will function well, thereby providing optimal function and balance in the entire body. Subluxation is what occurs when the spine is shifted out of place, or is fixated and not moving as it should. When subluxation occurs, it has a negative impact on the nerves and, in turn, the cells and organs that particular nerve sends messages to. This is sometimes (but not always) accompanied by pain. Chiropractic is a gentle and noninvasive way to restore proper function of the spine to return the body to health and healing.

How Do Subluxations Occur?

Subluxation can occur in many ways. Conformation of an animal can affect the way they perform. The balance (or lack of balance) of a rider can interfere with how a horse carries itself. A fall or simple wrong landing can be enough to shift joints out of place. Often times, in performance animals, repetitive motions are completed over and over in preparation for a competition, causing muscle and vertebral imbalance that can cause serious problems over time.

Why Animal Chiropractic?

Chiropractic is appropriate for the treatment of:

• Neck, Back, Leg and Tail Pain
• Muscle spasms, nerve problems
• Disc Problems, joint problems, limping
• Injuries from slips, falls, and accidents
• Jaw/TMJ problems, difficulty chewing
• Event or Sports Injuries
• Post Surgical Care
• Maintenance of joint and spinal health
• Many animals with chronic internal disorders benefit with regular chiropractic adjustments

What Are Some Symptoms That My Animal Could Be Exhibiting?

• Change in Behavior/Mood
• Noticeable pain or stiffness with certain movements
• Gait changes/ problems going to one direction/ failure to pick up leads
• Inexplicable changes in performance
• Jump refusals

Many owners utilize chiropractic for wellness maintenance of their animals (much like maintaining the alignment of your car to keep things running smoothly). This is a more preventative form of care to keep the joints healthy and moving properly, before symptoms arise.