What is Animal Biomechanical Medicine?
Animal Biomechanical Medicine combines Chiropractic and Osteopathic assessment and treatment options to provide a safe, effective form of physical medicine for animals.
It is most often applied for lameness and other musculo-skeletal problems, but is effective in many situations. The aim is to identify areas where the pet’s body is not functioning normally – these areas are then assessed to see whether biomechanical treatment is appropriate.
If appropriate, animal biomechanical treatment can involve spinal adjustments as well as soft tissue treatments such as myofascial release, trigger point therapy, tissue stretching, cranio-sacral therapy and a whole host of other techniques.
All techniques need to be performed gently to maintain the trust and relaxation of the patient, who probably doesn’t know what is going on, at least to start with. Most patients quickly learn to trust Dr Haines and relax, many often almost seem to go to sleep.
In some cases other treatments, such as acupuncture, medications, or surgery are appropriate with biomechanical treatment, or instead of it. In some cases, further investigation is required, e.g. X-rays.
Once the dysfunctional area has been treated, the pet’s body is then given time to adapt to the improved function, and heal itself. This may be very quick, if the problem is recent and not too severe, or it may be a slower process if the problem is profound and/or has been there for a long time. In this case, repeat treatments may be required.
Dr Haines’ biomechanical approach is very gentle and subtle, utilising many Osteopathic techniques and philosophies as well as the Chiropractic techniques taught at RMIT. It is particularly appropriate for timid or traumatised animals. She is also very interested in Animal Behaviour and the links between physical and and behavioural issues and also utilises some acupuncture when appropriate.
- Who can provide Animal Biomechanical Treatment?
- Why is it called Animal Biomechanical Medicine?
- Does Animal Biomechanical Medicine work? (Does my pet need Animal Biomechanical Assessment?)
- Dr Kate Haines and Animal Biomechanical Medicine