Cheryl Hammerson Equine Osteopathy and Massage

13/07/2025

Thrilled to be featured in Horse&Rider Magazine again, answering a reader's question in their regular "Ask the Expert" section. Get your copy now! Thanks Horse & Rider Magazine!

06/05/2025

Calling Yard owners and and managers!
Have you thought about setting up a regular Osteopathy and Massage day for your yard? There are discounts for each session over a certain number, and a special deal available for your own horse as a thank you for organising the day.
To discuss please call or WhatsApp.
07879 424330
Cheryl Hammerson Equestrian
Www.cheryl-hammerson-equestrian.co.uk

27/04/2025

26/04/2025

Thrilled to be featured in the latest issue of Horse & Rider magazine as one of their trusted experts! My first national press mention too! Fantastic issue, with lots of great articles so pick up your copy today!

Thank-you Horse&Rider Magazine!

15/04/2025

I recently had the pleasure of spending some time with Jane Randall from Bay Saddlery Ltd. We were sharing thoughts and ideas relating to our common experiences with ridden horses. One problem that we both see a lot is saddle slip/movement.

Undesirable saddle movement is a common problem, saddles can move in several ways during use, but I’d like to focus here on a particular type of movement, that of forward slip. This is when a saddle creeps forward, ending up in a position which is too far forward onto the horse’s shoulders, potentially causing discomfort. I see the consequences of this in my Osteopathy and Massage work.

What causes forward slip? Forward slip is common with horses and ponies that have low withers, and wider conformation. It is particularly common in smaller ponies who have wide ribcages and narrower shoulders. Forward slip can also be caused by a saddle that is too wide, or too narrow, particularly if it is unbalanced front to back, with the cantle sitting low. There is however a cause of saddle slip which is not as often talked about, and that is the rider!

A rider may have movement patterns which encourage the saddle to become unbalanced. Perhaps by sitting too much towards the cantle, or sometimes, by literally ‘walking’ the saddle forwards. This ‘walking’ effect happens most in rising trot, if the rider has not yet developed the skill and balance to rise in a way which keeps their body aligned slightly in front of their lower leg. The action of using the stirrups to lever themselves forward over feet that are often too far forward, creates a rocking action in the saddle. The pommel lifts as the rider sits down (too far back), then during rising the weight is thrown forward onto the stirrup bars, ‘walking’ the saddle forward. I have seen this many times during my years of teaching. I believe that, subject to the saddle being of a suitable size and fit for horse and rider, much can be done to solve this through education of the rider, with exercises to help develop their balance, strength, and correct riding position.

If your saddle is slipping forwards, or indeed anywhere, first consult your saddler. Then, if the fit has been assured, seek the advice of an experienced instructor to help you develop your seat, it could just make all the difference! The discussion between Jane and myself highlighted the importance of teamwork across a range of professionals to enable the best outcomes for horse and rider. Jane has a great range of saddle designs and is fully committed to the comfort of horses and riders. I look forward to working alongside Jane in providing my range of services to assist her clients.

30/03/2025

Spring is here! Now is a perfect time to get your horse an Osteopathy and Massage appointment to get them ready for the coming activities, or to check them over after the winter. My services are for all horses and ponies, from young-stock, to competition horses, to retirees. Regular maintenance treatments can help your horse year round. Check out my services on my website and message for more information or to book.
www.cheryl-hammerson-equestrian.co.uk

15/03/2025

I am very pleased to officially announce the addition of Equine Osteopathy to my services. Exciting times ahead! Please get in touch to book a session for your horse. Individual sessions, or an Osteopathy yard day are available.

31/01/2025

New availability! Includes some evenings and Saturdays
Cheryl Hammerson Equestrian
Cheryl Hammerson Equine Massage Therapy
Www.cheryl-hammerson-equestrian.co.uk
07879 424330

17/11/2024

Just thought I would show a little visual example of why you need to contact me to book your horse in for a therapy session. After all, a picture speaks a thousand words! This horse relaxed enormously during his session, letting go of tension that he probably didn't know he had, and yes, this difference was in 1 session. Don't hesitate to get in touch to discuss your requirements, or to book in. Your horse will thank you. WhatsApp, or call 07879 424330. Remember that I provide a full holistic service to clients and their horses. Check out my website www.cheryl-hammerson-equestrian.co.uk for details.

29/03/2024