Chiropractic & Acupuncture
Chiropractic & Acupuncture For Your Pet | Gippsland Veterinary Hospital
If your horse has been feeling “off” — stiff on one rein, reluctant to go forward, or just not moving the way they used to — the problem might not be behavioural. For horse owners in Maffra looking for options beyond anti-inflammatories and rest, chiropractic and acupuncture can offer a different approach to restoring comfort and function.
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Chiropractic & Acupuncture FAQs
Just a few common questions about Chiropractic & Acupuncture. If there is something else you need to know just ask in the Contact Us form below!
Is chiropractic treatment safe for horses?
Yes, when performed by a trained veterinarian. Chiropractic adjustments use controlled, specific force applied to restricted joints — it’s not about forcefully manipulating the spine. We assess each horse before treatment and won’t proceed if there’s any concern about underlying pathology that could make manipulation inappropriate. Serious complications are rare when proper technique is used and contraindications are respected.
How will I know if treatment is helping?
Most owners notice changes within the first few days after treatment — improved willingness to go forward, more even movement, or a more relaxed attitude under saddle. Some changes are subtle and become more obvious over time, particularly if chronic compensatory patterns are being addressed. We’ll ask you to monitor your horse and report back at the follow-up appointment so we can assess progress together.
Can chiropractic and acupuncture replace conventional veterinary treatment?
These therapies complement conventional treatment rather than replacing it. If your horse has a fracture, infection, or significant lameness, we need to address that appropriately — chiropractic and acupuncture aren’t substitutes for diagnostics and medical treatment when they’re needed. However, for musculoskeletal pain and movement restrictions without serious underlying pathology, these therapies can be highly effective either alone or alongside other treatments.
My horse has kissing spines — can chiropractic help?
Chiropractic may help manage some of the secondary muscle tension and movement restrictions associated with kissing spines, and many horses with this condition do benefit from supportive manual therapy. However, it won’t change the underlying bony pathology. For horses with kissing spines, we’d typically recommend a full assessment to understand the severity of the condition and discuss all management options — which may include chiropractic and acupuncture as part of a broader plan alongside medication, exercise modification, or surgical consultation if appropriate.