Dr. Russell is now offering animal chiropractic exams and adjustments after attending courses at Options for Animals College for Animal Chiropractic.
“I have seen first-hand the benefits of chiropractic treatment in animals, especially horses, and I’ve always been interested in expanding my knowledge in animal chiropractic. I’m excited to offer our clients chiropractic care as a complement to our current veterinary services. My goal as an equine veterinarian has always been to use my knowledge and skills to keep horses in optimal health and performing to their best ability. Offering chiropractic care is another invaluable tool to accomplish this goal.”
-Dr. Ross Russell
What is Animal Chiropractic?
Chiropractic philosophy states that the body has an innate capacity to heal itself. This innate ability occurs through the body’s nervous system which controls all other body systems (i.e. circulatory, respiratory, musculoskeletal, immune, urinary & digestive, lymphatic, and endocrine). The nervous system is similar to a fuse box in a house, wherein it controls and influences all other areas of the home. When not operating at full capacity, many areas can be affected. The goal of chiropractic care is to remove any distractions to the nervous system so that it can operate to full capacity.
How does Animal Chiropractic Work?
An animal’s spinal cord is housed and protected by its vertebrae. Along with housing the main component of the nervous system, vertebrae also provide a framework for the body, are sites of muscle and ligament attachment, and facilitate movement from the hind limbs to the fore limbs during ambulation. A dysfunctional vertebrae manifests locally as inflammation or pain, decreased range of motion, and increased muscle tension. This inhibits the activity of the nervous system through chemical and biomechanical forces. A chiropractic adjustment is used to treat the area of dysfunction and restore vertebrae to their normal function. Regular chiropractic exams evaluate the vertebrae to ensure the nervous system is operating at full capacity.
Should your Horse have a Chiropractic Exam?
Chiropractic care is not intended to replace primary veterinary care, but instead used to complement it. Chiropractic exams and adjustments in conjunction with primary veterinary care can be used to treat a wide range of internal and musculoskeletal ailments and enable the body to reach optimal health. Chiropractic care is also recommended during the rehabilitation of previous primary injuries to alleviate and prevent compensatory injuries.
Signs that your Horse may Need a Chiropractic Exam:
- Lameness – intermittent, mild, moderate. ALWAYS have a veterinary exam first.
- Crouching down after mounting
- Difficulty turning one or both directions
- Trouble with head collection – Leaning on one side of the bit, head shaking
- Aberrant behavior or bucking
- Cross-cantering
- Frequent lead changes
- Refusal to take one lead
- Lack of hind limb propulsion
- Dragging one or both hind limbs
- Lethargy
Call us today to schedule an appointment!
