28/02/2025
Laura Stephenson, an Equine Musculoskeletal Specialist, emphasises the importance of identifying and addressing compensatory mechanisms in young horses to prevent future injuries and promote optimal development. Here's an overview of her approach:
# Compensatory Mechanisms in Young Horses
*Muscle imbalances: Young horses often develop muscle imbalances due to growth spurts, training, or injury.
*Joint adaptation: Joints in young horses undergo significant changes as they mature, leading to compensatory mechanisms.
*Gait adjustments: Young horses often alter their gait patterns to compensate for discomfort, pain, or biomechanical issues.
# Laura Stephenson's Approach to Physical Therapy for Young Horses
*Assessment and evaluation: Conduct a thorough assessment to identify compensatory mechanisms, muscle imbalances, and joint issues.
*Manual therapies: Use manual therapies like massage, myofascial release, and joint mobilisation to address muscle imbalances and joint issues.
*Laser therapy: Laser therapy aids in pain management, reduces inflammation, and promotes soft tissue healing.
*Acupressure: can help manage pain, reduce inflammation and promote healing.
*Chiropractic adjustments: performed holistically to maintain proper spinal alignment, relieve pressure on joints, and improve overall biomechanics.
*Therapeutic ultrasound: ultrasound therapy can help reduce inflammation, promote tissue healing, and relax muscles.
*Exercise and conditioning: Develop a customised exercise program to strengthen muscles, improve joint stability, and enhance overall athletic ability.
*Education and owner involvement: Educate owners on proper horse care, exercise, and management to prevent future injuries and promote optimal development.
# Rehabilitation Considerations
*Age and developmental stage: Tailor rehabilitation programs to the young horse's age, breed, and level of maturity.
*Injury or condition: Address specific injuries or conditions, such as osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) or flexural deformities.
*Gradual progression: Progress rehabilitation programs gradually to avoid overloading the young horse's musculoskeletal system.
By addressing compensatory mechanisms and incorporating physical therapy, Laura Stephenson helps young horses develop into strong, athletic, and resilient individuals.
Consult with an equine veterinarian or a certified equine rehabilitation professional to develop a comprehensive plan tailored to your young horse's specific needs.
Laura Stephenson - Musculoskeletal Specialist for Horses
Equi-Elite Bodyworks