What is Veterinary Spinal Manipulative Therapy?
Veterinary Spinal Manipulative Therapy (VSMT) is the veterinary equivalent of human chiropractic care, involves skilled motion palpation to detect joints that are not functioning appropriately. If indicated, a VSMT practitioner will perform specific adjustments at these locations in order to improve function and mobility and reduce pain.
Hypomobilities can result from a variety of causes including muscle spasms, scarring, or masses. This can potentially lead to pain, decreased performance, and compromised health. VSMT also involves careful assessment of the nervous system and its function.
For patient safety and optimal results, VSMT should only be performed by certified veterinarians, or by doctors of chiropractic that have obtained additional certification to practice on animals. Dr. Alderman obtained her certification in VSMT at The Healing Oasis Wellness Center.
Which patients might benefit from VSMT?
VSMT is frequently sought out as a maintenance therapy to keep equine athletes performing at their highest abilities or to keep equine companions as comfortable as possible in their retirement. It may also shed light on the source of behavioral changes, help alleviate chronic pain, and aid in rehabilitation following injury. Dr. Alderman’s training is focused on equine and canine techniques, but most species can benefit from VSMT. VSMT techniques are not recommended for patients with acute injuries or fractures.
What can I expect during a VSMT appointment?
Evaluation: A VSMT practitioner will typically begin the appointment by taking a patient history. Depending on the issues reported, they may also want to observe the horse in motion. They will then palpate the horse from head to toe to assess joint function, muscle consistency, and nervous system function.
Adjustments and muscle techniques: Where indicated, VSMT adjustments are performed to address restricted regions in the body. An adjustment consists of a specific, rapid force and should result in improved function and mobility of the targeted region. They may also work on relieving muscle spasms, or demonstrate massage and stretching techniques to be performed after the visit.
Patient response: The VSMT practitioner will provide the horse handler with directions for how they would like the horse held to ensure the optimal horse and human safety. The majority of equine patients find VSMT visits to be relaxing and enjoyable. To avoid injury to the patient, VSMT adjustments should never be performed in a sedated or anesthetized patient.
At-home recommendations: Depending on the exam findings, a VSMT practitioner may recommend specific stretches, massage techniques, and exercises to be continued after the visit. Learn more about simple at-the-barn exercises.
Response expectations: The VSMT practitioner should discuss expectations for patient improvement and formulate a plan with the horse owner at the end of a visit. Depending on the examination findings, the VSMT practitioner may recommend scheduling a follow-up VSMT appointment, or pursuing a lameness workup or alternative treatments.
