alternatives to Shiatsu

[Moomin]

Moo used to have regular shiatsu at her last yard to help with tension (she tends to manifest it by making herself physically uncomfortable on her back end). The treatments worked wonders and after about four months she felt she didn't need it anymore (started refusing the sessions!). I got the treatments free as it was a friend of mine just completing her qualification and used her as a case study.

I've moved yards now a long way from the last place, and my friend can't come that far regularly to treat Moo.

Moo now needs some kind of help with her muscles in her back again - as last year it is coincidental with the onset of her 'proper' seasons in the spring. It also doesn't help that the boys find her rather tasty and use her as a climbing frame! I wanted to get her some more shiatsu but unfortunately qualified people seem to be few and far between and I can't find anyone local.

By the way I have spoken to the vet about her problems and they can't see anything serious/deformed etc to be causing it - they have suggested regumate but I don't want to get her that really.

I have found a local horse osteopath, an equine sports masseur and a McTimoney Chiropractor. Just wanted to know which would be best, if I need vet exams and referrals etc - as I want it for theraputic purposes not for treatment of a specifically diagnosed physical problem will I have problems getting them to come out?

[intouch]

I am biased, but Maybe you could find a Bowen or Equine Touch practitioner? Lovely gentle technique, body balancing, not "treatment" so you don't need a vet's OK although its always good to ask. www.equinetouch.com for links.

[flowergirl]

Hi

There are lots of Shiatsu students looking for case studies so it may be worth contacting the shiatsu schools.

Where are you baised ? I am doing equine shiatsu so I can prob help find you a practitioner in your area...

Best wishes
Nicola

Intouch - I am surprised that the practitioner does not need vets permission for these therapies (Bowen espeacially), I certainly do for shiatsu and under the vets act even faith healers need permission before the "laying on of hands"

[intouch]

Hi Nicola - I agree it's always as well to have a vet's OK, but as ET is a body balancing, which can be done on a perfectly healthy horse, we are not making a diagnosis or treating a problem, according to our trainer we do not need vet's permission. I am aware it's open to debate!