This course has been designed to equip equine clinicians with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to make the most of their abilities and ultrasound machine, in the diagnosis and treatment of equine musculoskeletal conditions affecting the mid and distal frontlimb and hindlimb, including the stifle joint. This course is suitable for all vets aiming to improve their knowledge and skills in this area, as the practical sessions will be adapted to the attendee’s skill level.  

The speakers will be sharing invaluable tips/tricks and pearls of wisdom with the attendees during the 7 hours of practical sessions in small groups (2 – 4 vets per ultrasound machine) on live horses.  Each attendee will be able to hone his/her practical skills at the following practical stations:  Machine set-up, foot & pastern, digital flexor tendon sheath, fetlock region, suspensory ligament, flexor tendons & check ligaments, tarsus & tarsal sheath and the stifle joint region.

Back and sacroiliac problems are amongst the most debilitating conditions affecting equine athletes.  Local injections of medications do not usually resolve the problems long-term unless combined with a comprehensive rehabilitation program and the introduction of management changes.  

This 2-day practical course was developed for equine practitioners with a good working knowledge of back and sacroiliac conditions and covers how to use therapeutic modalities effectively in combination with comprehensive exercise protocols aimed at strengthening the back/gluteal musculature.  The world-renowned specialists will be discussing the following topics interactively with the attendees:

·       The Physical Therapist’s Approach to Back & Sacroiliac Conditions

·       Physical Therapist’s Evaluation of the Equine Back & Pelvis 

·       Therapeutic Modalities for Back & SI Conditions – Therapeutic Laser, Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy, Electrical Stimulation, Rapid Release Technology & Radiofrequency Therapy

·       Rider & Horse Interaction

·       Therapeutic Exercise for Back & Sacroiliac Problems

·       Development of Treatment Plans for Back & SI Conditions

·       Underwater Treadmill   

·       Therapeutic Monitoring of Back & SI Conditions

·       Return to Sport – The Progression incl. Management Changes

·       Home Exercise Programs for your Clients 

·       Injury Prevention & Maintenance

·       Conditioning & Performance Enhancement

·       How to charge for Rehabilitation Services          

In the afternoons, 7 hours of practical small-groups sessions on live horses will allow attendees to become familiar with various therapeutic modalities and physical therapy exercises that can be shared with horse owners.