Complementary therapies Their role in horse rehabilitation & treating ailments

What types are there? Homeopathy Acupuncture / acupressure Aromatherapy Herbalism (different types - “classical” based on Greek/Roman sources, Indian (Ayurvedic), Chinese etc. Osteopathic Chiropractic Physiotherapy Flower remedies Equine sports massage therapy Tellington TTouch Equine Awareness method Shiatsu Reiki Reflexology Chromotherapy (colours) Cranial sacral therapy Iridology (eyes) Phototherapy Kinesiology Crystal & gem therapy Magnetic therapy Copper therapy Equine muscle release therapy / Bowen technique Alexander technique Feng Shui Jin Shin Jyutsu Propolis Radionics Horse whispering Faith healing Healing Dowsing

Alternative / complementary? Should these therapies be utilised as a stand alone treatment, i.e. an alternative to conventional veterinary medicine? Or should they be used in conjunction with conventional treatments, i.e. complementary? Many complementary therapies are derived from ancient principles and practices, often thousands of years old. Whereas in Western medicine, many practices have been in existence for less than a century. Interestingly, some Western medicine has it’s roots in ancient holistic medicine, e.g. aspirin was originally derived from White Willow bark in the 5 th Century BC. Despite a recent surge of popular interest in complementary therapies, it remains a controversial topic.

Rules / legal requirements Registration of practitioners: – A reputable therapist is likely to be registered with their governing body, although it is not always a requirement. Legislation in relation to complementary medicine: – This is very restrictive. – Complementary therapies are illegal in the treatment of animals, unless the vet is involved in the process – (Apart from the manipulative therapies (physiotherapy, osteopathy & chiropractic), behavioural treatment and faith healing). Competition restrictions: – Some naturally occurring substances may have a chemical content that is prohibited by affiliated competition rules.

Areas of investigation There are so many different therapies, that we will review just a few as a group, followed by individual research. These are the areas we will need to research: – How are they given / applied to the horse? – What are their beneficial effects? – Are there any harmful effects? – How do they work? – What evidence is there on clinical efficacy? – How can you monitor efficacy?

Interesting / useful references A list of alternative medicines: cine cine Overview: doctor.com/patient_info/alternative_remedies/overview_alternrx.h tml doctor.com/patient_info/alternative_remedies/overview_alternrx.h tml Overview of alternative versus conventional Western medicine: Legislation on treatment: Searching western medicine and alternative medicine produces a lot of interesting sites.

Medicinal herbs in a traditional Spanish market