Equine osteopathy is a holistic, hands-on therapy that restores balance and mobility in horses by addressing musculoskeletal, craniosacral, and visceral systems.

Equine osteopathy is a manual therapy adapted from human osteopathy that focuses on the horse’s entire body as an interconnected system, rather than just isolated symptoms or injuries. It aims to detect and correct restrictions or imbalances in bones, muscles, joints, connective tissues, organs, and the craniosacral system, helping the horse maintain optimal function and well-being.

To gently work on the joints and muscles to improve blood flow and regulate nerve supply, rebalancing the body’s structures and restoring function. The objective of osteopathic treatment is to promote mobility, flexibility, and the quality of movement using :

• Joint mobilization

• Soft tissue release

• Muscle stretching

• Gentle cranial, fascial, and functional work

• To improve mobility and flexibility

• Help with muscle tension and soreness

• With compensation patterns

• Improve posture and asymmetries

• Enhance perfomance

• Decrease pain and inflammation

• Decrease stress and tension

• Improve overall wellness and quality of movement

• General maintenance for performance horses

• Support for aging horses

• And so much more

1. I will start by gathering a detailed history of your horse, including any concerns and goals you have, to ensure the session is personalized and effective.

2. I will assess your horse in motion and standing to observe any gait abnormalities, pinpoint areas of concern, tension, & asymmetry.

3. Then the hands-on part of the session will begin, tailored specifically to your horse’s needs, focusing on improving mobility, balance, comfort, and overall function.

4. If concerns arise outside of the scope of bodywork, or if additional care may be needed, referrals to the appropriate veterinary or equine professionals will be recommended. Rafter G Equine values a collaborative approach to supporting each horse’s overall health, comfort, and performance.

5. After each session, you will receive a detailed session report on all of my findings, techniques used, areas that were worked on, and a plan moving forward.

It is recommended to give your horse 1-2 days off work after a session. I will include a recommendation at the end of my session report to help you feel confident in managing your horse’s recovery, based on how your horse felt before the session and what was observed during it.

I will also put any recommendations if I feel you should consult with another equine professional (veterinarian, farrier, saddle fitter, etc.). If a follow-up or additional consultation is advised, I will outline the process and timing to ensure your horse’s continued well-being. This of course will be my own opinion, and I can point you in the direction if you would like to pursue it.

Osteopathy, bodywork, myofascial release, and craniosacral work are supportive services intended to promote comfort, balance, and overall well-being.

These services are not a replacement for veterinary care. For any medical concerns, the owner should consult a licensed veterinarian.

Allison Glisson is a certified Equine Osteopath and does not diagnose conditions or provide medical treatment.

• Acute injuries or trauma

• Open wounds or active bleeding

• Fever or signs of systemic illness

• Infectious or contagious disease

• Severe lameness of unknown origin

• Fractures or suspected fractures

• Immediately post-surgical cases without veterinary clearance

• Severe inflammation or swelling

• Acute neurological symptoms

• Colic or signs of abdominal distress

• Unexplained weight loss or decline in overall condition

• Significant pain responses

• Certain stages of pregnancy

• Severe hoof abscesses or acute foot pain

• Aggressive or unsafe behavior that risks injury to the horse or the handler

• Any condition requiring immediate veterinary attention

Equine bodywork/osteopathy is not a replacement for veterinary care. A licensed veterinarian should evaluate horses showing signs of illness, acute injury, or significant pain.

Pricing is structured to offer flexible options for both haul-in and on-site appointments.

Individual equine bodywork sessions are $130 per horse when horses are hauled in to Rafter G Equine. Mobile sessions are available for $150 per horse when travel to the client’s location is requested.

For travel appointments, a minimum of 3 horses is preferred to schedule an on-site visit. Clients with 1 or 2 horses may need to haul in. Please reach out to Rafter G Equine for scheduling and travel details.