An investigation into the effects of McTimoney chiropractic treatment on the stride parameters of the horse during trot

Abstract

Anecdotally, McTimoney Chiropractic is reported to improve equine
performance. Objective data on the impact of McTimoney treatment on
locomotor function are not yet available. This study investigated the effect of
the technique on stride parameters during trot. Seventeen clinically sound
college horses were randomised into treatment (n=12, mean age=11 years,
mean height=160.6 cm) and control (n=5, mean age=10 years, mean height=
160.5 cm) groups. Horses were trotted in hand at self-selected speed (by
experienced handlers, blinded to the study) immediately before and two days
following McTimoney treatment. Data were obtained using 2D gait analysis
software. Average stride velocity (SV) and stride length (SL) were calculated
from 4-6 left and right trot strides per horse. Treatment group horses received
routine McTimoney treatment whilst the control horses remained in their
stables. Post care exercise for all horses was controlled to 3 hours paddock
turnout the day after treatment; and 20 minutes horse walker exercise prior to
reassessment. Prior to treatment, student T tests revealed no significant
differences (p>0.05) between the population data and average stride
parameters for the 2 groups. Using paired T tests to compare pre-treatment
and post-treatment data, there were significant increases in SL (mean SL
(Day 0)= 2.25±0.06 m, mean SL (Day 2)= 2.32±0.04 m; p<0.01) and SV
(mean SV (Day 0)= 3.21±0.09 m/s, mean SV (Day 2)= 3.30±0.07 m/s; p<0.01)
but no significant difference shown for the control group (p>0.05). The
differences in stride length and velocity two days following McTimoney
chiropractic treatment provide some evidence for the short term impact of
treatment. This could have an implication in benefiting equitation science by
improving performance, however further research is required on locomotor
function following a treatment regime to fully understand the impact of
McTimoney treatment on performance.
Lay Persons Message Despite anecdotal evidence into the benefits of
McTimoney Chiropractic on equine performance, there has been little
scientific evidence produced. This study provides some evidence that
McTimoney treatment influences stride length and speed (forwardness) of the
horse during trot, however further evidence is required to full understand the
impact in improving performance.