Performance issues in Horses
Supporting movement, comfort, and competitive edge through equine performance physiotherapy.
Even the most well trained and well-cared-for horses can develop subtle physical issues that impact their performance. At IP Vet Physio, we specialise in identifying and addressing these problems through expert horse performance physio.
Serving Cheshire, Manchester and surrounding areas, we provide mobile, hands-on equine performance physiotherapy to support horses across a range of disciplines, from eventers, dressage and show jumpers to leisure and hacking horses. Our goal is to optimise comfort, biomechanics, and overall performance, whatever your horse’s job.
Identifying performance issues in horses
Performance issues can be complex and often involve more than one cause. They may result from discomfort, muscle imbalance, underlying injury, compensation, or even long-standing tension. Common signs include:
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Stiffness or unevenness in gaits
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Reluctance to work through the back or accept contact
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Trouble with lateral work or striking off on the correct canter lead
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Shortened stride or lack of impulsion
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Resistance when tacking up or mounting
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Sudden change in behaviour or willingness
Whether your horse is showing subtle signs or more obvious issues, equine physiotherapy can provide valuable insight and support.
How horse performance physio can help
Our equine performance physiotherapy services are designed to identify physical restrictions, alleviate discomfort, and support correct movement patterns. We look at your horse holistically, assessing conformation, movement, posture, muscle development and any areas of tension.
Treatment may include:
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Manual therapies such as soft tissue mobilisation, stretching, and massage to relieve tight or overused muscles
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Electrotherapies such as laser therapy or PEMF to support soft tissue healing and reduce inflammation
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Targeted exercises to develop core strength, symmetry, and overall fitness
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Sports massage for horses in regular work to support recovery and prevent muscular fatigue
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Post-competition recovery or pre-season conditioning programmes
We also offer regular maintenance physiotherapy for horses in competition work, helping to detect and address potential problems early and improve long term performance.
Tailored vet physiotherapy for equine athletes
Every horse is different, therefore so is every treatment plan. Whether your horse is in elite training or simply not moving quite like their usual self, we offer bespoke, compassionate care tailored to your horse’s needs and goals.
At IP Vet Physio, we don’t just aim to treat the problem, we help to build a stronger, healthier athlete from the ground up.
To learn more about our horse performance physio services in Cheshire and Manchester, or to book a consultation, please get in touch today.
