Introduction to Equine Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation.
Authors: C. McGowan, Suzanne Cottriall
Journal: The Veterinary clinics of North America. Equine practice
Summary
# Editorial Summary McGowan and Cottriall's 2016 review establishes equine physiotherapy within its broader clinical context, defining it as the systematic restoration of movement and function through assessment, targeted treatment, and structured rehabilitation programmes. The authors ground their examination in the fundamental sciences underpinning the discipline—particularly functional biomechanics, neuromotor control, and sensorimotor integration across the spine, pelvis, and peripheral joints—whilst tracing the historical development and regulatory frameworks that have shaped equine PT practice. Musculoskeletal conditions dominate equine physiotherapy caseloads, encompassing poor performance, back pain syndromes, localised lameness, and select neuromuscular disorders, each requiring distinct mechanistic understanding to guide intervention. The review emphasises that effective equine rehabilitation demands appreciation of the integrated sensorimotor system and motor control principles, moving beyond symptomatic treatment toward restoration of functional capacity and athletic capability. For practitioners in farriery, veterinary medicine, and coaching, this framework underscores why multidisciplinary assessment and recognition of the rider-horse interaction—including rider-side physiotherapy intervention—remain essential to resolving performance-limiting conditions and preventing recurrence.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •Physiotherapy addresses movement restoration and function in horses with musculoskeletal and neuromuscular issues—understand these principles to work effectively with PT practitioners
- •Knowledge of biomechanics and neuromotor control is essential for farriers and therapists designing interventions for back pain, poor performance, and joint problems
- •Consider the rider as part of the treatment system; asymmetries or dysfunction in the rider may contribute to equine musculoskeletal problems
Key Findings
- •Physical therapy is defined as restoration of movement and function through assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation
- •Musculoskeletal physiotherapy is the predominant subdiscipline in equine PT practice
- •Core scientific principles include functional biomechanics, neuromotor control, and sensorimotor system function in spine, pelvis, and peripheral joints
- •Equine PT may extend to assessment and treatment of riders as part of integrated care