Introduction to Equine Physiotherapy

At Jo Seddon Porteous, we provide professional, mobile equine physiotherapy across Bath and Bristol, supporting your horse's health, movement, and long-term wellbeing.

From sports horses returning from injury to older companions needing maintenance, our specialist physiotherapists deliver evidence-based assessment and treatment right at your yard, ensuring your horse feels comfortable in familiar surroundings. With expertise in equine biomechanics and over 25 years' clinical experience, we help to restore mobility, manage pain, and optimise performance for every horse we see.

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person performing massage therapy on horse's back focusing on equine wellness and relaxation techniques

 

person wearing a checkered shirt gently touching the back of a brown horse interacting with animals in a calm manner

Why Would My Horse Need to See a Physio?

Equine physiotherapy offers significant benefits for horses at all life stages and activity levels. Jo Seddon Porteous focuses on identifying and addressing movement issues to enhance quality of life and performance. Your horse may benefit from our mobile equine physiotherapist if they need support with:

  • Rehabilitation after injury, restoring healthy movement and gradual return to work.
  • Recovery following orthopaedic surgery or veterinary procedures.
  • Management of chronic musculoskeletal pain, such as arthritis.
  • Performance enhancement for competition or working horses, improving strength and symmetry.
  • Preventative care, detecting subtle muscle tension or imbalance before issues become problematic.

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What Happens During the Assessment?

During an initial session, we spend time discussing your horse's history, workload, and any concerns you have. Our structured assessment includes:

  • Static and dynamic observation (walk, trot, movement on a circular path, and ridden assessment where required) to evaluate posture, gait, and biomechanics.
  • Thorough hands-on palpation, examining muscles, tendons, joints, and soft tissue for tension, pain, or restriction.
  • Orthopaedic and, where needed, neurological testing to ensure a clear, diagnosis-informed approach.

A bespoke treatment plan is developed, incorporating manual therapy, stretching, joint mobilisation, and, where appropriate, electrotherapy. We'll also provide you with a personalised exercise programme and clear advice for ongoing management.


 
 

person examining a horse's leg and hoof with care to ensure proper health and support 3 essential steps to horse care

Key Components of the Rehabilitation Process

Our rehabilitation is thorough and designed with your horse's optimum function in mind. The key aspects of our approach include:

  • Thorough functional assessment: movement screening, gait analysis, palpation, and relevant tests.
  • Pinpointing dysfunctions and muscle imbalances affecting your horse's performance.
  • Creating targeted, goal-oriented treatment plans, measuring progress at every stage.
  • Neuromotor retraining with specific exercises and proprioceptive challenges.
  • Hands-on manual therapy: soft tissue techniques and mobilisation.
  • Corrective advice on hoof, limb mechanics, and, when needed, saddle fit and rider influence.
  • Individualised home exercise programme for owners/trainers.
  • Preventative strategies, including advice on warm-up, cool-down, and conditioning.
  • Collaborative working with vets, farriers, and trainers to ensure integrated care.
  • Progress evaluation, adapting treatment to your horse's needs as they recover.

 

What Happens Next?

After your horse's first physiotherapy session, we offer follow-up appointments to monitor progress, adjust the treatment plan, and provide ongoing support. At your request, we can share comprehensive reports with your vet, ensuring your animal's care remains coordinated and consistent. Our mobile service is available in Bath, Bristol and the surrounding 20-mile area, making access to expert care straightforward and stress-free.

 
 
 

Other Animal Physiotherapy Services We Offer

Alongside equine physiotherapy for performance horses, we offer canine and feline physiotherapy, plus comprehensive horse rider assessments. This holistic approach supports both animal and rider, optimising comfort, performance, and recovery for the whole partnership. Learn more about our full service range in our Veterinary Physio Services section. 

Canine Physio Feline Physio