As an ACPAT registered Chartered Physiotherapist I have been performing treatment of horses under sedation, in collaboration with the horse’s vet, for a number of years. The technique was developed by forward-thinking vets and physiotherapists that worked together to utilise veterinary and physiotherapy skills in a deeper and more targeted way.
Treatments under sedation are particularly beneficial for horses with stiff and painful necks, those who are very sore due to excessive muscle spasm or very nervous horses who do not tolerate standard physiotherapy treatment. It is a very useful technique for more complex cases that may not have improved with standard physiotherapy treatment.
Once I have assessed your horse, I can help you to determine whether your horse is suitable for a treatment under sedation. It may be appropriate for your vet to perform some investigations or a ‘work-up’ before we progress to a treatment under sedation.
The treatment under sedation technique involves both me and your vet being present at the same time. An assessment of the horse is made before your vet administers the sedation by a needle into the vein in the neck, followed by the physiotherapy treatment. With the horse under sedation (sleepy but still standing up), I can accurately assess the joint feel and end range of movement in the horse’s neck and back using movements and positions which I cannot do with the horse awake. The treatment itself can then be targeted to specific areas in the neck and back that may be stiff or tight. The technique allows for a slightly deeper treatment, and period of rest afterwards is recommended (from 2-5 days).
Treatments under sedation are a fantastic opportunity for both me and your vet to come together to assess and treat your horse. It is particularly useful in more complex cases that may not have responded to standard physiotherapy or veterinary treatment.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you would like to know more about this specialist treatment technique
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