McTimoney helps realign and balance the musculoskeletal system. It is ideally suited to animals as it is a gentle non invasive whole body technique that doesn’t involve any cracking of the joints. The techniques relies on the speed of movement to initiate the innate intelligence of the neuromuscular system to function better by just using ones hands.
Misalignments are often refered to in McTimoney but this is somewhat misleading, as the joints are not misaligned but not moving properly in essence the joint is stuck or fixated. Misalignements are self perpetuating central segmental motor control issues with a joint and surrounding tissue, such as a vertebral motion segment not moving properly, this causes ongoing maladaptive changes in the central nervous system affecting its ability to self regulate, self organise, repair and heal.
Research has shown that chiropractic adjustments can cause changes in the central nervous systems function and stimulate dysfunctional paraspinal tissue, leading to an altered perception of pain. This includes affecting parts of the brain, endocrine system, spinal cord, nerves, muscle and other soft tissue.
Misalignments bring about joint dysfunction which may be seen as
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Decreased range of movement
- Decreased performance- this maybe seen as not wanting to go forward in horses or being stiffer on one rein than the other. In dogs it may be a reluctance to pick up or jump an obstacle
- Avoidance activities- this can show as biting or kicking when being tacked up, not wanting to be caught or not standing at the mounting block. In dogs there may be a reluctance to go for a walk by hiding or sitting down and refusing to move.
- Asymmetry- is seen as an unevenness in movement or when standing from one side to the other
- Muscle atrophy of weakness- a loss of muscle and muscle strength
- Lameness
This can all influence movement patterns and the proprioceptive processing of the spine, which can be caused by overuse (repetitive activities) or trauma (from an impact or fall). McTimoney adjustments use the speed of movement, which causes a hyper contraction and relaxation of surrounding soft tissue, restoring joint function. Improving range of motion, reducing stiffness and pain. Allowing your animal to move more freely and efficiently.
Do get in touch with Pollyanna to book an appointment or to discuss your dog or horse’s needs and any other questions you might have.
Pollyanna FitzGerald (Msc³, Bsc² (Hons), EBW, MMAA, MRAMP) 