Dr. Melanie is now certified in Veterinary Spinal Manipulation Therapy (VSMT) through the Veterinary Chiropractic Learning Centre. 

VSMT is an alternative manual therapy used to address restricted motion or subtle subluxations (slight misalignments) of joints throughout the body. These small misalignments can cause discomfort due to abnormal pressure on the nerves and soft tissue structures in and around each joint. 

Spinal manipulation (or “chiropractic adjustments” when performed by a human chiropractor) uses specifically targeted gentle thrusts to improve joint range of motion and restore nerve function. VSMT is a non-invasive treatment option, and is generally well tolerated by most horses. 

Dr. Melanie is excited to offer this treatment modality to help improve mobility and quality of life for her patients! 

VSMT can be beneficial as a treatment option or part of a treatment plan for the following conditions: 

• Neck pain
• Back and sacro-iliac pain
• Poor performance
• Uneven gaits
• Geriatric care for general mobility 

For acute conditions, a few treatments spaced 1-3 weeks apart is often recommended. For routine health and general maintenance, adjustments are typically recommended every 4-6 weeks depending on the condition and performance schedule.