What is McTimoney for animals?
The McTimoney approach to manipulation is a non-invasive gentle physical therapy that works to realign and balance the animal's musculoskeletal system, restoring health and movement, soundness and performance.
John McTimoney developed this unique approach to in the 1950s, modifying his human adjusting technique to apply specifically to animals. Today, the McTimoney MSc in Animal Manipulation is the only university-validated course of its kind in Europe.
What does the McTimoney approach involve?
The practitioner will take a detailed case history and undertake static and dynamic gait evaluation. The spine, pelvis and any other relevant joints are examined for any misalignments and spasm in the associated muscles.
Acute and chronic injuries or strains can cause the muscles to tighten and pull a bone in the spine or pelvis out of line with its neighbour, which is termed a misalignment These misalignments in some cases may cause impingement of the associated spinal nerves, affecting the pathway of signals from the horse’s brain to the relevant muscles and therefore affecting performance and/or behaviour. Misalignments occur following an acute problem, such as a bad fall, accident or getting cast, or by a more chronic problem such as ill-fitting tack, rider imbalance, poor foot balance or conformational problems.
The problem areas are then treated with very precise high velocity low force adjustments, which correct the misalignment, restore full range of joint motion and relieve muscle spasm. Most animals readily accept the treatment, and no anaesthetic or drugs are needed.
Aftercare may involve rest or limited exercise for a few days. The animal may require several treatments, depending on the nature of the problem. Regular check-ups are recommended to help maintain optimum performance and health.
The McTimoney technique is effective either on its own or when used in conjunction with other treatment modalities. Sports massage and other soft tissue techniques are often used by practitioners alongside McTimoney manipulation to provide an even greater depth of muscle release when required. This is reflected by the fact that many McTimoney Animal Association members are also EBW certified!
About the McTimoney Animal Association
The McTimoney Animal Association (MAA) is the professional association for McTimoney Animal Practitioners in the UK. All members have completed Post Graduate training in Animal Manipulation at McTimoney College, which is externally validated by the University of Wales.
The MAA is responsible for setting professional standards for its members and for maintaining a professional code of ethics. All members are required to maintain their level of expertise by undertaking continuing professional development after they have qualified.
Animal manipulation and the law in the UK
The General Chiropractic Council (GCC) regulates the chiropractic treatment of humans. Animal practitioners are therefore not required to register with the GCC. Only practitioners that are registered with the GCC for practice on humans can legally call themselves chiropractors or hold themselves out as chiropractors. Animal practitioners therefore do not use the term “chiropractor”. The use of the word McTimoney to describe our approach to animal treatment does not imply that MAA members are chiropractors.
The treatment of animals is regulated under the Veterinary Act 1966. The Veterinary Surgery (Exemptions) Order 1962 authorises manipulative therapies such as those used by McTimoney animal practitioners providing they practice with the prior consent of and under the direction of the animal's veterinary surgeon.
For more information about the McTimoney Animal Association and how to find a practitioner in your area please visit www.mctimoney-animal.org.
Helen Jacks-Hewett Bsc(Hons) PGDipAM MMAA EBW CBW
Chair of the McTimoney Animal Association
(Please keep in mind that Chiropractic laws concerning animals, very for every country)
Image courtesy of the McTimoney Animal Association website
