Discomfort, soreness and pain in a horse is often misinterpreted as 'bad behaviour'. People have described their horses as naughty, stubborn, fresh etc, when I have found it is just saying Help!

Conditions that respond well

• Sore or tender backs

• Stiffness in the body

• Sudden temperament changes

• Unexplained lameness

• Reluctance to give correct canter lead

• Muscle wastage

• Restricted lateral movement

• Pre & Post operative surgery

• Many more

What does a treatment involve?

Before any treatment involving a horse takes place it is necessary to obtain permission from your vet to treat the horse.

Before the start of the first session information about the horse’s backround and general state of health is collected. The horse’s static and dynamic conformation is assessed to give a starting point to measure any improvements by. A discussion with the owner/carer to explore some of the possible causes of the problem (which may not be immediately apparent) is useful because if these causes can be eliminated or minimised then the likelihood of re-injury (so the problem recurring) can be reduced. Such causes include poor saddle fit, rider imbalance, accidental injury, stress or management issues.

The Bowen treatment on the horse is best undertaken somewhere the horse can stand quietly for approximately 45 minutes. As it is a gentle treatment many horses soon relax and some even drop off to sleep. They can have access to hay if they are more settled whilst eating. The effects of the treatment can last for at least 3-4 days as the body is rebalancing and healing. Advice will be given on when the horse can be exercised and what sort of work would be appropriate. Most conditions respond to three treatments about 1 week apart. For many horses, to maintain their condition and performance levels, a single ‘top-up’ treatment every 3-6 months is sufficient unless there is a re-injury. The cost per treatment is £40. Discounts are available for more than 1 horse or horse and rider visits.

The Bowen Therapy and Equine Bowen Therapy are not intended as a substitute for medical or veterinary advice or treatment. If in doubt please consult your doctor or veterinary surgeon.