Chiropractic

Equine chiropractic is a form of healthcare that seeks to optimize spinal joint movement and improve neuro-muscular function to maximize your horse’s overall health and well being. Chiropractic care also evaluates movement in the extremities, but is primarily aimed at optimal vertebral movement.

The goal of a chiropractic examination is to identify joints that are restricted in their normal range of motion. This restriction in normal movement is called a chiropractic subluxation. When two vertebrae are not moving freely it can create inflammation on the surrounding soft tissue and can negatively affect the nerves leaving the spinal cord between those two vertebrae. Once a restriction is found, a very specific thrust is put into the joint. These adjustments are fast and gentle. After the adjustment is made the joint is rechecked for improvement in movement.

Restrictions in movement can negatively affect athletic performance and cause your horse to find ways to compensate for reduced joint movement. These compensations, along with the chiropractic subluxations themselves can cause pain and reduced performance. Ensuring that your horse’s vertebra are moving normally also improves overall health by allowing your horse’s nervous system to be functioning efficiently and optimizing communication between the nervous system and all of the other body systems.

Chiropractic care is an excellent addition to traditional veterinary care for all horses, and sport horses can especially benefit from this healthcare modality.

Dr. DeBruler studied equine chiropractic at Options For Animals Chiropractic College, which is the oldest animal chiropractic school in the country. In addition to graduating from the Options for Animals program, she is also certified through the International Veterinary Chiropractic Association. To learn more about how your horse can benefit from chiropractic care please contact Dr. DeBruler at (352) 345-3630.