EQUINE OSTEOPATH: HOW A SESSION WORKS AND THE BENEFITS FOR THE HORSE

Equine osteopathy has become a common practice in sport horse management and overall equine wellness. Its goal is to restore mobility in joints, muscles and tissues, improving comfort and movement. Here is how a session typically unfolds, and when consulting an equine osteopath may be useful.

When Should You Call an Equine Osteopath?

Owners may request an osteopath in several situations, including:

• Loss of performance, horse being “less forward”
• Visible stiffness during warm-up
• Difficulty bending or turning to one side
• Resistance under saddle (bucking, head tossing, unwillingness)
• Sudden behavior changes
• Falls or slips
• Annual wellness check
• Transition periods: breaking-in, returning to work, post-rest

Important: Osteopathy never replaces veterinary care. If a problem appears serious (acute lameness, fever, wound, colic…), the osteopath intervenes only after veterinary approval.

### How Does an Equine Osteopathy Session Work?

Each practitioner may have their own methods, but the general structure is similar.

1. History Taking (Interview with the Owner)

• Horse’s background
• Discipline and workload
• Past injuries or falls
• Behaviors observed during work or grooming

This step helps identify areas requiring attention.

2. Observation of the Horse in Motion

The horse is usually evaluated at walk and trot, in a straight line and sometimes on a circle.

The osteopath observes:

• Hind limb engagement
• Symmetry
• Limb trajectory
• Pelvic rotations
• Neck mobility

3. Palpation and Mobility Testing

The practitioner manually assesses:

• Joint mobility
• Muscle tension
• Tissue elasticity
• Sensitive or reactive areas

This helps identify tension or restricted mobility.

4. Osteopathic Corrections

Several techniques may be used depending on the osteopath’s training:

• Gentle structural techniques
• Joint mobilizations
• Fascial work
• Cranio-sacral techniques
• Manual muscle relaxation

Contrary to popular belief, osteopathic manipulation should not be forceful or abrupt.

5. Recommendations After the Session

The osteopath often provides management advice:

• 24 to 48 hours of rest or light work
• Flexibility or stretching exercises
• Adjustment of equipment (saddle, bit)
• Points to monitor daily

### What Are the Possible Benefits of Equine Osteopathy?

The most commonly observed benefits include:

• Better range of motion
• Improved comfort and movement
• Overall body balance
• Better posture and attitude under saddle
• Fewer resistance behaviors related to tension
• Enhanced sport performance
• Reduced compensations before they develop into problems

Important limitation: Osteopathy does not cure every condition. It helps restore mobility but cannot replace veterinary treatment when a medical issue is present.