What to expect during a chiropractic (VSMT) appointment:

Your appointment will begin with a discussion of the patient's medical history, so that we may best understand the reason for your visit.  The doctor will evaluate the movement of your horse.  Each visit, may include an in hand assessment or lunging of the horse.  It is possible to see a horse's movement under saddle if it is requested during scheduling, additional fees may be involved. 

During the exam Dr. Patty will feel, or palpate, your horses’ joints.  When a restricted joint is found, it is corrected by an adjustment.  The adjustment is a very specific and gentle thrust into the joint.  After the adjustment, the joint is palpated again to be certain that it is moving more freely.  The adjustments usually look like quick little pushes on the patient.  In order to be at the correct angle to the spine during appointments, Dr. Patty will stand upon “bales”.  These are large Styrofoam blocks inside of cases that resemble hay bags.  Most horses truly enjoy being adjusted and are relaxed and happy during your appointment.