Freedom Farm Equine Therapy
** IMPORTANT INFORMATION **
One of the first questions I am often asked from a new client is if I use a mallet during my treatments, therefore, I would like to take the time to clarify any confusion and explain my opinion regarding the use of mallets in equine chiropractic treatments.
Equine chiropractic practitioners may or may not use mallets. These mallets may be used in various ways. I am going to explain how and why I use a mallet and in doing so, I hope to answer any questions you may have.
In my practice, I use a mallet. However, contrary to what many think the moment they hear "mallet", I do not hit, strike, or whack any horse with my mallet. My mallet has a tiny, 5" handle only so I can stick it in my back pocket and out of my way as I work. I use my mallet (which has one side of the head beveled), to pinpoint the specific vertebra that is not in balance, therefore causing restricted joint mobility within the spine. Tapping the properly placed mallet with the heel of my hand is all it takes to adjust the joint, promoting it's proper mobility and nerve function.
Again, I DO NOT HIT ANY HORSE WITH A MALLET! It is strictly a tool to pinpoint a specific vertebra. It is my personal preference to use a mallet for it's accuracy.
Unfortunately it only takes a simple internet search to see the horrors that are being done to horses with mallets. Wielding a mallet like an axe and slamming it down on the joint is not an effective technique, it's a damaging one. It is damaging to the bone and to the soft tissue that surrounds it.
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As a graduate of the HJW College of Equine Studies in British Columbia, Canada, she received an intense, hands on education from a leader in the equine spinal manipulation and body work field.
"I have enjoyed working with Melissa and she has shown hard work and her diagnosis have been 100% - the top score in practical."
"Melissa is good working around the horse - even bad mannered ones."
~ Helen J. Woods - Instructor
"Melissa has demonstrated that she is highly competent in diagnosis and treatment of the horse. She is confident working around the horses and communicates well with the client."
~ Darcey Woods - Instructor
Having daily interaction with her own, and client horses, plus a willingness to learn all she can, ensures Melissa's continuing education in all aspects of caring for our equine partners.
Freedom Farm Equine Therapy is committed to providing the best care available for your horse.
Chiropractic, Acupressure, and Massage
Like a human's, a horse's spine consists of a number of vertebrae, which are connected to support movement. If the spine becomes misaligned, the joints will not move how they were intended, leading to stiffness, pain and other performance robbing symptoms.
There can be many causes of misalignments within a horses body. Continuously being saddled with an improperly fitted saddle is a very common cause. Some sort of accident such as a slip or fall, being cast in a stall, or improper shoeing or trimming are also known causes of misalignments.
"My first concern is for the health, safety, and comfort of your horse. Working together with you to provide the best care available."
~Melissa Nadurak
Melissa & Joe
Rest in peace my friend, I miss you.
January 24, 1990 - April 15, 2010
Melissa Nadurak
Freedom Farm Equine Therapy
Box 113 Myrnam, Alberta T0B 3K0
780.646.2351
email: melissa@freedomfarmequinetherapy.ca
