Equine Craniosacral Therapy
What is it ?
Whilst relatively new to the animal therapy world, Craniosacral has found purpose in helping patients throughout. Craniosacral work originated from osteopathy but this technique focuses on bringing balance back through the skeletal and muscular system with specific focus on individual bones of the skull, spine and pelvis. The holistic healing practice uses extremely light finger pressure to optimise movement by encouraging the horse to release restrictions in its body.
Where it may help
When applied correctly, this gentle and subtle technique can be highly effective in addressing a number of conditions in the horse: Facial nerve paralysis, Head injuries and trauma, Blocked tear ducts, Compensatory postural defects, Head-shaking, Head shy behaviour, over sensitivity to touch, and many more…
Veterinary consent is a legal requirement if the animal is currently under investigation for an injury/ ailment. You will be asked to obtain this from your vet and the therapist will contact them to let them know they are due to treat your animal.
Provided By:
What to expect
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In total, the whole process can take between 1 ½ hours - 2 hours which includes:
A review of the history
a thorough static assessment that involves looking at symmetry of the cranial bones, spine and pelvis, range of motion within the joints, palpating for tension in the soft tissues and reactivity
a gait assessment; to include walking, trotting, backing up and small circles
The treatment
Aftercare advice.
Your therapist may ask to see your horse being tacked up, ridden or lunged, if necessary for evaluation.
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Following the initial consultation, I tend to recommend a follow-up within the next 2-3 weeks alongside any recommended management changes, in hand exercises and/or simple body work techniques that are to be carried out. However, this will be discussed on the day.
Please refrain from exercising your horse within the first 48hours post treatment unless otherwise advised. Craniosacral therapy is, for most animals, a relaxing treatment which leaves the patient quite sleepy and/or tired. Most changes are apparent within 48 hours post treatment and can include appearing stiff, slow, increased thirst, and sometimes more exuberant! These changes in behaviour are perfectly normal so please don’t be alarmed and it is another part of the healing process and a way to flush out toxins that have been released from the body.