Treatment Protocols & Procedures Flashcards

Which line of drive (LOD) is used when adjusting a horse's rib with a posterior-to-anterior (P-A) thoracic technique?

Answer: Perpendicular to the articular surface of the costovertebral joint

The line of drive must be perpendicular to the restricted joint's articular surface to efficiently gap the costovertebral articulation.

What is the primary therapeutic goal of the 'toggle-recoil' adjustment technique used in equine cervical care?

Answer: To deliver a rapid, shallow thrust and immediately withdraw to allow the joint to recoil and seat properly

The toggle-recoil technique uses a fast, light thrust followed by immediate hand withdrawal, allowing natural joint recoil and neurological reflex integration.

A performance horse is treated chiropractically two days before a major competition. Which outcome consideration is MOST important to discuss with the owner?

Answer: Some horses experience a temporary soreness phase of 24-48 hours that could affect performance

A post-adjustment soreness phase can occur, particularly after the first few treatments, and the owner should be informed before timing adjustments close to competition.

When performing a bilateral pelvic adjustment on a horse, the practitioner stands to the side and contacts both iliac crests. What is this technique designed to correct?

Answer: A bilateral extension or flexion fixation of the pelvis

The bilateral iliac contact technique addresses global pelvic flexion or extension fixation rather than unilateral rotational restrictions.

Which clinical finding during motion palpation best confirms that an adjustment at a specific vertebral motion unit (VMU) is indicated?

Answer: End-range joint stiffness combined with pain response and abnormal tissue texture change

A vertebral subluxation complex is confirmed by the combination of restricted end-range motion, local pain, and palpable soft tissue changes at the VMU.

In equine chiropractic protocol, what differentiates a 'mobilization' from a 'manipulation' (HVLA adjustment)?

Answer: Mobilization moves the joint within its passive range without a thrust; manipulation uses a high-velocity thrust at the end range

Mobilization applies repetitive low-velocity oscillatory force within the joint's passive range, while HVLA manipulation delivers a rapid thrust at the elastic barrier.

A horse with a T10 spinous process deviation to the right most likely requires an adjustive thrust directed in which vector?

Answer: Right to left (pushing the spinous process back toward midline)

A spinous process deviated to the right indicates rotation of the vertebral body in the same direction; the thrust is directed right-to-left to restore alignment.