Here is an overview of the most important forms of alternative care for horses. Some of these, such as physiotherapy, have become so common that they are no longer really considered alternative. For other treatments, scientific evidence of effectiveness is limited or even completely lacking. Alternative therapies can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions and problems in horses, often as a complement to traditional veterinary care.

Physiotherapy

A therapy that uses exercises, massage, and other techniques to improve mobility and function while reducing pain. Physiotherapy is so well established and proven effective that it is no longer viewed as alternative medicine. It is primarily used alongside general veterinary medicine. Many equine physiotherapists have also completed human physiotherapy training or are trained veterinarians. However, this is not true for everyone—there are also a range of shorter private courses of varying quality. It is therefore important to find a qualified and skilled physiotherapist for your horse.

Osteopathy

A manual therapy focused on treating movement issues in the body, particularly in the joints, muscles, and tissues. Osteopathy is based on the idea that reduced mobility of tissues and structures can negatively affect health. Osteopaths use their hands to detect such dysfunctions and restore mobility. Many equine osteopaths are also physiotherapists, but not all. Training programs for osteopaths vary widely: from in-depth multi-year courses to short workshops. Osteopathy offers a more holistic approach than chiropractic care.

Chiropractic Care

A therapy that focuses on diagnosing and treating mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine. This involves manipulation of the joints. Most officially certified equine chiropractors are also veterinarians, though not all. In some countries chiropractic is considered alternative medicine, while in others it is part of mainstream healthcare.

Cranio-Sacral Therapy

This therapy works with the fascia, particularly around the skull and meninges. Gentle manual mobilizations aim to release blockages from the skull down the spine, allowing cerebrospinal fluid to flow freely. According to practitioners, this has a positive effect on the overall health and well-being of the horse.

Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD)

MLD is a gentle massage technique that directly stimulates the lymphatic system, enhancing its function. It has immediate effects on multiple organ systems, promotes relaxation, supports the parasympathetic nervous system, helps eliminate waste, fluids, damaged cells, reduces inflammation, relieves pain, calms the horse, and aids recovery after injury. It is ideal for conditions such as stocked-up legs, CPL, cellulitis, laminitis, sweet itch, tension, trauma, metabolic issues, injuries, and more.

Acupuncture

A traditional Chinese medicine where needles are placed at specific points in the body to relieve pain and promote health. It is used not only for muscles and joints but also for treating certain organs or the nervous system (such as stress).

Laser Therapy

The use of light of a specific wavelength to stimulate tissue and promote healing. Laser therapy is commonly used by physiotherapists for both humans and horses. It is crucial that it is done with a high-quality device, under safe conditions, and with proper anatomical knowledge. Avoid using cheap devices from unregulated sources due to risks such as burns.

Leech Therapy / Hirudotherapy

Leeches secrete around 80 medicinal substances into the horse via their saliva. These substances are key to the therapeutic effect. Leeches are used for issues such as hematomas and CPL.

Guasha Therapy

A technique using a specially shaped stone (such as jade, agate, or bian stone) to scrape the skin. This stimulates blood circulation, removes blockages, and allows energy to flow freely. It also helps relax and release muscle tension. This massage technique is both relaxing and pain-relieving.

Kinesiotaping

The use of elastic tape to support muscles, stimulate circulation, and reduce pain. Many physiotherapists use kinesiotaping as a complement to their regular treatments.

Hydrotherapy

Physiotherapy in water to relax muscles, improve circulation, and promote healing. Commonly used in the form of aqua trainers.

Massage

The use of various techniques to relax muscles, improve blood flow, and reduce pain. Also widely used by physiotherapists. There is considerable variation in the quality and training of equine massage therapists.

Herbal Medicine (Phytotherapy)

The treatment of health complaints and diseases using plant-based remedies. Plants have been used for healing purposes worldwide since ancient times. Increasing scientific studies show that many plants do have medicinal properties, though the level of evidence varies by plant. Herbal medicine often uses concentrated extracts or dried powders. Sometimes, different herbs are combined for a synergistic effect.

Salt Therapy

Also known as halotherapy, salt therapy supports respiratory and skin issues in horses. It uses the purifying properties of salt to clean the horse’s airways and skin. The horse inhales salt particles. This therapy is especially popular in the world of racehorses.

Aromatherapy

The use of essential oils to promote physical and emotional well-being. The oils can be offered for the horse to smell, for example, by holding them near the nostrils.

Bach Flower Therapy

The use of flower remedies to restore emotional and mental balance. An example is the use of Bach Rescue Remedy in stressful situations.

Homeopathy

An alternative therapy using highly diluted substances to stimulate the body's self-healing ability. Homeopathy differs from herbal medicine, aromatherapy, or Bach flower remedies, which use potent plant extracts. Homeopathy is often criticized as pseudoscience due to the extreme dilution of its remedies.

TTouch (Tellington Touch)

A method using specific touches and exercises to improve body awareness and coordination.

Magnetic Therapy

The use of magnetic fields to relieve pain and promote healing. A magnetizer generates these fields, often through laying on of hands.