Therapy

McTimoney Chiropractic

The McTimoney technique was established in the 1950’s by a man named John McTimoney who developed specific spinal manipulation and chiropractic techniques to be used on animals. It is non-invasive and is carried out entirely by hand. Animals tend to readily accept the treatment as it is gentler than some conventional manipulative therapies and considered very effective. It can be used to treat any type of animal, benefiting loving pets to world class competition animals.

McTimoney treats the entire body focusing on symmetry and balance based on the principle that the body creates many compensations therefore the whole body needs to be treated not just the problem area. Specialised manipulations using speed rather than force target precise areas of the skeleton creating vibrations to parts of the anatomy which stimulates the nervous system to relax and repair, encouraging a healing response. Re-alignment of the skeleton and joints allows correct function of the nervous system (which controls everything) therefore having a positive effect on the entire body.

Soft Tissue Techniques

A combination of massage, myofascial release and trigger pointing targets the muscles, tendons and ligaments to encourage relaxation, reduce pain, improve blood flow, improve lymphatic flow, reduce muscle tension and/or spasm. It can help soft tissues recover after training and improve muscle strength, flexibility and tone. These techniques promote relaxation and help to the muscles to re-programme therefore having a effect of the nerves surrounding that area. Animals are very accepting of soft tissue techniques and quite often really enjoy it.

Joint Mobilisation and Stretching

Joint mobilisation is the passive assisted movement of a joint to create a therapeutic effect which includes restoring or improving the range of motion, relaxation of muscles, improve blood flow and lymphatic flow through the effected joint and muscles. During mobilisation, muscles, tendons and ligaments are encouraged to stretch which improves flexibility, strength and range of motion.

K-Active Taping

Taping is an additional therapeutic intervention which can help the proprioception of muscles, tendons, ligaments, activate the lymphatic system, support joint function, prompt pain relief and improve mobility. Depending on the individual animal this is a technique which can influence the biomechanics of movement therefore having a positive effect on muscle development and range of motion in joints.

WHY SHOULD I USE A THERAPIST FOR MY ANIMAL?
It is important to recognise when an animal may have back pain though it is not always easy and it worth considering having your animal checked by a specialist if you are not sure. The type and amount of treatment an animal might need is very depending on the individual animal - just like us some may suffer more that others.

VETERINARY PERMISSION
Veterinarians and therapists work closely together to provide the best treatment for your animal. To ensure that there are no underlying problems or conditions it is necessary that a veterinary is notified before therapeutic treatment is given to an animal. Most vets are aware of the benefits of such treatments, from fully qualified professionals and notification can be given quickly over the telephone.

Please contact Lucy if you have any questions:
Telephone - 07849 867987 / 01844 343091
Email - lucy@animalspine.com