Animal Chiropractic is different from chiropractic care for people.
This is due to the differences in joint structure, how the spine and rib cage are built, and the fact that animals are down on four legs while people stand upright on two. With our bodies being upright we have more compression on our spine due to gravity, which is why a “pop” or “cracking” sound is heard when a person is adjusted. Animals have more shear forces on their joints, so it is rare or uncommon for animal joints to release a sound when being adjusted. This only occurs if there is a compression force being applied to specific areas of the body, which is dependent on what the animal is doing. So be careful what you watch on social media.
An owner or handler will also have to be present to ensure the animal is comfortable and to ensure a controlled environment.
There are also differences in how large animals like horses, and small animals like dogs and cats are adjusted. This is in part due to large animals having a solid and supportive skeletal system, while small animals have a very mobile and flexible skeletal system. This means small animals need significantly more support when being adjusted.
Small Animal Appointments
In an initial small animal appointment, a muscle skeletal exam is performed along with an assessment of your pet's body biomechanics. After the exam your pet will be adjusted to tolerance. Proper basic animal chiropractic involves supporting the spine or pelvis while lightly thrusting with the thumb, a finger or hand depending on the size of your pet. The thrust is so light it may appear like a joint is just being pushed on. After the thrust Dr. Amanda Smith will hold pressure onto the area until she feels a release. This is beneficial for your pet, so they get the most out of the treatment and do not get frightened by a quick adjustment.
Large Animal Appointments
An initial large animal appointment, involves a muscle skeletal exam along with an assessment of your animal's body biomechanics. The assessment could also include the owner/rider performing a task they are concerned about. After the exam, the animal will be adjusted to tolerance. To adjust the spine, proper basic animal chiropractic involves using adjustment blocks to get over the top of your animal. A thrust and hold are performed until Dr. Amanda Smith feels a reduction in pressure. Adjusting this way gives the animal the most benefit out of their adjustment and prevents the animal from being spooked like they could be with a faster adjustment. Occasionally, Dr. Smith may need to get out of the way, to prevent injury. This means the hold maybe shorter, but your animal will still benefit from the adjustment of the joint. To adjust the limbs, Dr. Smith will be standing on the ground and will have to pick up your animal's feet. These adjustments normally go a bit faster for the comfort of the animal and due to safety for all involved.
If you have any questions, or want to know some good examples to watch on social media please reach out.
