These videos show an adjustment of an uncomplicated horse with very few concerns at this time. This is a maintenance adjustment on a horse that has been adjusted before. As you can see in the videos, Dr Julie does all her adjusting by hand and is quite gentle. She does not sedate the animals prior to treatment and prefers to have them relax and be a willing participant–which they are usually happy to do! She uses large foam blocks to stand on so can align herself in the correct angle towards the horse (and these blocks are much safer than a ladder in case the horse or human slip!). A typical treatment includes assessment and treatment of the full spine of the animal, and often includes assessment/treatment of the extremities including legs, tail, jaw, and ribs. Dr Julie typically does some degree of muscle work on every animal she adjusts because it helps to relieve pain that the horse may be experiencing, as well as helping the adjustment last as long as possible. Every adjustment comes with a detailed explanation of what was done, recommendations for future treatments (if needed), and home exercises like stretching, strengthening, and other techniques if they are necessary.
Click on the image to view an adjustment of the horses neck (cervical spine). This involves bending the horses neck to the sides, stretching the head forward, and other moves.
Click on the image to view an adjustment of the horses back (thoracic and lumbar spine). This involves standing on blocks to achieve the correct angles and giving gentle quick pressure to the affected areas.
Click on the image to view an adjustment of the horses legs (limbs, extremities). This is the part where being a farrier is helpful! Treatment of the limbs requires lifting of the legs, stretching of the legs, and sometimes other postures and positions.