OklahomaHorses Magazine May 2021

May/June 2021 • OklahomaHorses 15 problems like stiffness or lack of flexibility, chronic musculoskeletal problems, and as an adjunct therapy for chronic lameness scenarios, such as navicular, arthritis or tendon issues. It can be used as an enhancement for the abil- ity of sport horses to perform at their best and is helpful in maintaining fitness. It can also be very beneficial at helping to maintain soundness in older horses. The importance of spinal health can be un- derstood better with a basic concept of its anat- omy. The horse’s spine consists of seven cervical vertebrae, 18 thoracic vertebrae (that articulate with the ribs), six lumbar vertebrae, five sacral vertebrae (which we refer to as the sacrum) and 16 to 18 coccygeal vertebrae. The area that the vertebrae connect at is known as an articulation. There is not a lot of mobility in each individual articulation, but the sum of the whole vertebral column allows the horse to have flexibility and perform correctly. The spinal cord is in the center of the ver- tebral column. Nerves branch off of the spinal cord and exit the spinal column. The nerves run through an area known as the Intervertebral Foramen. It is important to have a fully func- tional and mobile spine to allow these nerves to function correctly. Proper nerve function allows the organ systems to work correctly as well as helps prevent pain from developing. A Vertebral Subluxation Complex known as a subluxation is a functional misalignment of a vertebra or the decreased mobility of the vertebrae’s facet joint. Subluxations decrease the flexibility of the spine, which can inhibit performance. This reduction in mobility may also affect the spinal nerve’s ability to conduct stimuli. This reduced transit of information can affect body function and even muscle contraction. Subluxations may also cause the horse to stand with an abnormal posture. These abnormal posi- tions may place more mechanical strain on other parts of the body as well, leading to soreness and even lameness. Signs your horse may have a subluxation can include pain responses such as biting when being saddled, swishing and flagging tail when being ridden, changes in behavior, decreases in performance and even sensitivity to touch. There may also be abnormality of gait, stiffness, decreased range in motion of gait, and diffi- culty coming into the bridle or engaging the hindquarters. When subluxations are diagnosed by trained chiropractors or veterinarians, realignment is achieved by a very specific high-speed, low-force thrust that helps to correct the misalignment of the spine. The thrust is made within the plane of the joint, and when the correct technique is used, the ligaments are not adversely affected. Only subluxated vertebrae identified within the exam are adjusted. The additional training certified practitioners receive helps to ensure the treatment is both safe and effective for the patient. Horses often benefit in as little as one chiro- practic session. You may see improved attitude or an increase in performance. Some conditions may require several sessions to see true benefit. Regardless of the use of your horse, he or she is likely to enjoy and benefit from this safe and noninvasive adjunct therapy. Adjustment of the Vertebral Subluxation Complex can improve nerve conduction to improve health and soundness. After adjusting spinal segments, extremities may also benefit from adjustment.