A vet preforming VSMT therapy on a horse
A vet preforming VSMT therapy on a horse
A vet preforming VSMT therapy on a horse

Basic Wellness

What to Expect During A VSMT Session

May 13, 2025

By Mikayla Swirski

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Veterinary Spinal Manipulation Therapy (VSMT) is a holistic therapeutic approach that focuses on optimizing the function and mobility of the spine and musculoskeletal system. It involves hands-on manipulation techniques performed by trained veterinary professionals to restore proper mobility, and balance to the vertebral column and associated structures.

VSMT Therapy
VSMT Therapy closeup

Benefits of VSMT

  • Pain relief

  • Improved range of motion

  • Enhanced performance

  • Improvement during rehabilitation

  • Enhanced comfort and quality of life

In summary, veterinary spinal manipulation therapy offers a range of benefits for horses, including pain relief, improved range of motion, enhanced performance, faster recovery from injuries, preventive care, and a holistic approach to health and well-being. When performed by qualified veterinary professionals, chiropractic care can be a valuable component of a comprehensive health and wellness program for horses, supporting their physical, mental, and emotional vitality.


What to Expect During a VSMT Session

During a VSMT session your horse will have a motion assessment performed before starting the manipulations. The range of motion of different joints are assessed, and then adjusted as needed.  The horse is evaluated in sections looking at the neck, back, pelvis, and lower limbs until the entire horse has been assessed. Horses generally settle into the session and relax during the adjustments.


What to Expect After a VSMT Session

Ideally the horse should receive the rest of the day off from work after a VSMT session. Horses can return to their normal exercise level the following day. Often owners noticed a difference after one session, with further improvement after a follow up session a few weeks later.

Veterinary Spinal Manipulation Therapy (VSMT) is a holistic therapeutic approach that focuses on optimizing the function and mobility of the spine and musculoskeletal system. It involves hands-on manipulation techniques performed by trained veterinary professionals to restore proper mobility, and balance to the vertebral column and associated structures.

VSMT Therapy
VSMT Therapy closeup

Benefits of VSMT

  • Pain relief

  • Improved range of motion

  • Enhanced performance

  • Improvement during rehabilitation

  • Enhanced comfort and quality of life

In summary, veterinary spinal manipulation therapy offers a range of benefits for horses, including pain relief, improved range of motion, enhanced performance, faster recovery from injuries, preventive care, and a holistic approach to health and well-being. When performed by qualified veterinary professionals, chiropractic care can be a valuable component of a comprehensive health and wellness program for horses, supporting their physical, mental, and emotional vitality.


What to Expect During a VSMT Session

During a VSMT session your horse will have a motion assessment performed before starting the manipulations. The range of motion of different joints are assessed, and then adjusted as needed.  The horse is evaluated in sections looking at the neck, back, pelvis, and lower limbs until the entire horse has been assessed. Horses generally settle into the session and relax during the adjustments.


What to Expect After a VSMT Session

Ideally the horse should receive the rest of the day off from work after a VSMT session. Horses can return to their normal exercise level the following day. Often owners noticed a difference after one session, with further improvement after a follow up session a few weeks later.

Veterinary Spinal Manipulation Therapy (VSMT) is a holistic therapeutic approach that focuses on optimizing the function and mobility of the spine and musculoskeletal system. It involves hands-on manipulation techniques performed by trained veterinary professionals to restore proper mobility, and balance to the vertebral column and associated structures.

VSMT Therapy
VSMT Therapy closeup

Benefits of VSMT

  • Pain relief

  • Improved range of motion

  • Enhanced performance

  • Improvement during rehabilitation

  • Enhanced comfort and quality of life

In summary, veterinary spinal manipulation therapy offers a range of benefits for horses, including pain relief, improved range of motion, enhanced performance, faster recovery from injuries, preventive care, and a holistic approach to health and well-being. When performed by qualified veterinary professionals, chiropractic care can be a valuable component of a comprehensive health and wellness program for horses, supporting their physical, mental, and emotional vitality.


What to Expect During a VSMT Session

During a VSMT session your horse will have a motion assessment performed before starting the manipulations. The range of motion of different joints are assessed, and then adjusted as needed.  The horse is evaluated in sections looking at the neck, back, pelvis, and lower limbs until the entire horse has been assessed. Horses generally settle into the session and relax during the adjustments.


What to Expect After a VSMT Session

Ideally the horse should receive the rest of the day off from work after a VSMT session. Horses can return to their normal exercise level the following day. Often owners noticed a difference after one session, with further improvement after a follow up session a few weeks later.

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soldier-talking-psychologist

When you're ready,
we are too.

Get in touch with us to book your visit.

soldier-talking-psychologist

When you're ready,
we are too.