Eurodressage Interview

Horses for Courses: Anna Johnson Reflects on Physiotherapy for Horse and Human - Page 3

There are many differences and similarities between horse and human physiotherapy. "Animals respond quicker to electrotherapy with lower doses than humans," says Anna, although she wishes there was more research in electrotherapy on animals. The anatomy also differs between four and two-legged creatures, but "body part names are very similar and there are similar muscle groups and areas. The equine stifle, towards the hindquarters of the horse, is identical to the structure of the human knee. They have a femur and tibia. The patella is the kneecap on us. Horses and humans have similar problems with meniscus and cartilage tear. The stay apparatus of the horse's stifle can be locked, however, and he can rest standing up. Soft tissue and joint mobilisation are the same as is sinovial fluid for all animals".

Unraveling the complexities of treating horses can get quite complicated. "A sharp tooth can also cause problems or badly fitting tack might be the cause of a back problem," says Anna "so we often have to consult an equine dentist or saddler to rule these aspects out. We also have to obtain veterinary permission to treat an animal and often the vet has input on each case". In equine physiotherapy she treats all sorts of tendon, ligament, muscle tear, soft tissue injuries with her hands plus laser, ultrasound, and muscle stimulation devices. A lot of work is on top performance problems as opposed to injury and there may be restriction through larger muscle groups. She helps mobilise, build strength in, and treats spinally.

The difference in treating animals versus humans also transpires in pain detection. A horse's eyes, reflexes, and change in temperament all indicate presence of pain. "A normally friendly horse might become easily agitated and suddenly bite or kick. If a horse is really ill it won't eat, drink, defecate, or stale and may roll on the ground," says Anna. "Working with horses has its advantages as on the whole a horse doesn't elaborate its pain. In the human world the patient might not look too bad, but often if you question a human they state they aren't any better, when in fact there has been much improvement. Human perception of pain is greater than a horse. The horse wouldn't limp on purpose. I'm sure there are some horse owners who think their horse is hypochondriac, but I don't believe it. Horses are more tolerant of pain and humans are more sensitive".

....