Equine Chiropractic care in Greenville, SC
Equine Chiropractic
Unlock Your Performance Animal's Full Potential with Dr. Carolyn Longacre
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What is Equine Chiropractic Care?
Equine Chiropractic Care is based on healthy / uninterrupted connections between various body structures and the nervous system via the spinal column, and on the role of the spine in biomechanics and movement.
Animal Chiropractic is directed at the spine in order to modify the progression of disease.
What is the history of Equine Chiropractic Care?
Chiropractic has been practiced for centuries in many cultures, including the early Chinese and Greeks. However, there is a distinct lack of historical documentation of its early use in animal species. In its modern form, equine chiropractic has been developed within the last century. Early practitioners of modern chiropractic investigated its use in various animal species. As a distinct practice specialty, animal chiropractic is a young profession that is undergoing rapid growth and evolution.
On which species of animals is Animal Chiropractic practiced regularly?
Animal Chiropractic is frequently performed on horses, dogs, and cats, but can theoretically be performed on any vertebrate species.
Who practices Animal Chiropractic and do I need a referral?
Animal Chiropractors who work on animals must have specific training in animal chiropractic and animal anatomy so that they are knowledgeable about the differences in biomechanics and neuromusculoskeletal function between humans and animals. In North America, a certification process is in place to ensure that practitioners possess the appropriate knowledge and skill to treat animals.
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What conditions are most often treated with Animal Chiropractic?
Conditions with a neurologic or bio-mechanical origin are amenable to animal chiropractic. These conditions include degenerative joint diseases such as hip dysplasia and spondylosis; cervical instability; acute neck pain; intervertebral disk disease; autonomic nervous system problems such as urinary and fecal incontinence; musculoskeletal weakness or pain that resists conventional diagnosis and treatment; and chronic back and neck pain.
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How can my pet benefit from Animal Chiropractic?
Animal Chiropractic results are often immediate, and are often seen within minutes of treatment. In general, improvements are defined as an improved gait and an apparent reduction in pain. In orthopedic conditions such as fractures or ligament tears, animal chiropractic may not replace the need for surgery, but will be useful in correcting secondary problems caused by compensation or overcompensation to the injury.
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Animals used for athletic performance or other working purposes are ideal candidates for Animal Chiropractic. By regularly assessing and maintaining maximum flexibility in these animals, injuries may be avoided. Animal athletes include horses used for racing, dressage or pleasure riding, and dogs used in racing, agility training or field trials.
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How successful is Animal Chiropractic?
Like many holistic practitioners, Veterinary Spinal Manipulation doctors see the patient as a functional whole, rather than as a sum of its parts. Ensuring normal range of motion of vertebrae helps optimize function of lymphatics, blood vessels and nerves, which communicate between the spine and various body structures, allowing the body to function optimally to the point that further interventions may not be required. Applied correctly, Veterinary Spinal Manipulation Therapy can alleviate or eliminate the need for long-term drug or hormone treatments. The success of treatment depends upon the degree of pathology present and the duration of the condition.
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Comprehensive Animal Chiropractic involves a thorough history taking and physical examination, followed by a patient assessment and formulation of a treatment plan. It rarely involves a single visit, and costs will vary according to the specific condition being treated and the response of the patient. The fees associated with Animal Chiropractic are set by the individual practitioner, and will often reflect the experience and skill of the doctor. Animal Chiropractic is usually very affordable, and is certainly a cost effective way of managing and resolving pain and weakness.
Restore Comfort, Performance, and Longevity for Your Horse
At Evergreen Chiropractic and Wellness we provide gentle, evidence-informed equine chiropractic care to help horses move freely, feel better, and perform at their best. Whether your horse is competing, working, or simply your beloved companion, proper spinal and joint mobility supports nerve function, balance, stride efficiency, digestion, and overall well-being.
Conditions & Signs That May Benefit From Equine Chiropractic
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Shortened or uneven stride, head-bobbing, or refusal to pick up a lead
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Difficulty bending, hollowing through the back, or stiffness on one rein
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Behavioral changes under saddle (pinning ears, tail swishing, bucking)
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Sore back or hind end, girthiness, sensitivity to grooming
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Performance plateau, reluctance to jump/collect/extend
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Post-injury or post-dental/ farrier changes; compensation patterns
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Senior horse mobility and comfort support
How Equine Chiropractic Helps
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Improves joint biomechanics: Restores normal motion in the spine and extremities.
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Optimizes neuromuscular function: Frees nerve interference that can affect coordination and power.
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Enhances performance: Smoother transitions, better collection/engagement, increased range of motion.
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Supports recovery: Complements veterinary care, dentistry, farriery, bodywork, and conditioning plans.
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Promotes longevity: Reduces compensations that accelerate wear and tear.
What to Expect at Your Visit
1) History & Movement Assessment
We review training workload, tack fit, hoof care, footing, diet, and recent changes. Gait analysis may include in-hand, lunge, and under-saddle observations (when appropriate).
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2) Hands-On Examination
We evaluate spinal segments, pelvis, ribs, neck, and extremity joints; palpate soft tissues; and check neurological and postural indicators.
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3) Gentle, Specific Adjustments
We use low-force, species-appropriate manual adjustments and/or instrument-assisted techniques to restore motion without excessive force. Most horses relax visibly during care.
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4) After-Care Plan
You’ll receive clear guidance on turnout/riding timeline, in-hand exercises, poles, stretching, warm-ups/cool-downs, and when to recheck. We coordinate with your DVM, trainer, farrier, and bodyworker as needed.
Safety & Collaboration
Equine chiropractic is complementary to veterinary medicine and not a replacement for appropriate diagnosis or emergency care. We happily collaborate with your veterinarian and other professionals to support the best outcomes for your horse.
Safety & Collaboration
Equine chiropractic is complementary to veterinary medicine and not a replacement for appropriate diagnosis or emergency care. We happily collaborate with your veterinarian and other professionals to support the best outcomes for your horse.
Frequently Asked Questions about Equine Chiropractic
Q1: How does equine chiropractic care help horses in Greenville, SC?
A: Equine chiropractic improves mobility, relieves joint restrictions, enhances performance, and supports overall comfort. Horse owners in Greenville choose chiropractic care to help their horses move better and recover faster.
Q2: What conditions benefit from equine chiropractic care?
A: Gait abnormalities, stiffness, behavioral issues, decreased performance, neck or back pain, and post-injury recovery.
Q3: How do I know if my horse needs chiropractic care?
A: Common signs include resistance under saddle, uneven stride, trouble bending, difficulty picking up leads, sensitivity to touch, or behavioral changes. Many owners in Greenville, SC schedule regular checkups to prevent issues.
Q4: Is equine chiropractic safe for horses?
A: Yes. Adjustments are gentle, controlled, and tailored to the horse’s size and condition. Certified animal chiropractors in Greenville use specific techniques designed for equine anatomy.