Qi Performance, Integrative Veterinary Care

01/03/2025

12/16/2024

This recent case of mine shows the importance of medical manipulation. Did you know that joint restrictions can cause changes in posture and circulation?

Joints need to move without restriction to allow a horse to move biomechanically correct. When a restriction is present the normal joint movement doesn’t occur and consequently compensatory effects and performance issues can be seen. In the two pictures of this mare who is sound, shows how a pelvic restriction causes the whole body to shift when the left hind leg is picked up compared to the right. She had a right sided pelvic restriction.

Restrictions can also cause changes in circulation that can be seen with a thermal camera. Circulation changes occur from diminished motion, muscle splitting or spasm, and autonomic nervous system stimulation which creates vasoconstriction. In the first image the right hind limb is cooler than the left. After adjusting and re-imaging two hours later, the heat pattern has balanced out between the hind limbs.

A certified veterinary professional through routine evaluations, adjustments, and creating exercise and stretches specific to the individual horse’s needs will help keep your horse moving correctly and performing at their best!