Optimizing Performance in Horse and Rider as a Unit from Farmhouse Chiropractic

By Dr. Jillian Johnson, DC, AVCA, Farmhouse Chiropractic:

 

Ensuring both the horse and rider receive proper chiropractic and wellness services is crucial for achieving optimal performance, and harmony in equestrian activities. Riding is physical symbiosis in motion. Understanding the interplay of both horse and rider and how they affect each other can lead to a harmonious partnership.

Too often we see one part of the team, either human, or equine getting worked on but the true magic happens when both are evaluated and worked on as a unit. Signs of imbalance for the rider may include old injuries, pain or discomfort, difficulty maintaining balance in the saddle, uneven rein pressure, inability to perform a maneuver, or get a lead consistently. Signs of imbalance in the horse may include behavioral changes, not standing at the mounting block, irritation when saddling, swapping leads, or having a hard time with one lead over the other.

When you address both horse and rider you are removing the kinks in your communication. The rider’s posture, alignment, and balance directly impact the horse’s movement and comfort. For example, an unbalanced rider can inadvertently create uneven pressure on the horse’s back, affecting its gait and overall movement. This can manifest into physical, and emotional stress. If unaddressed can lead to deep routed compensation patterns.

Prioritizing the alignment and muscle function reduces the risk of injury. Seeking regular care, can help you address an issue sooner, enhancing the longevity of both horse and rider. Regular care aids in faster recovery, decreased down time, and provides a snapshot assessment of where both horse and rider are at the moment. This snapshot allows your team to address any challenges before they become significant issues.

At Farmhouse Chiropractic we understand the intricate relationship between horse and rider, and tailor a plan to your individualized needs, unique challenges, and goals. Offering a myriad of therapies to support both horse and rider, our office is centered around optimizing performance and educating riders.

With the increased demand in today’s equestrian sports, it is of the utmost importance to treat both horse and rider as a unit not as individuals. By prioritizing chiropractic and wellness services for both the horse and rider, you create a harmonious and effective partnership that enhances performance, prevents injuries, and fosters a positive and enjoyable equestrian experience.

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Farmhouse Chiropractice is onsite at World Equestrian Center – Ocala!  Learn more: Home (farmhousechiropractic.com)