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Two of the major influences on biomechanics and soundness are feet and teeth, which is why I have included information here for the interested horse owner who wants to empower themselves on how to help their horses further. In both the feet and the TMJ (the joint closest to the brain, directly affected by jaw alignment and balance), we have proprioceptors. To put it simply, proprioception is the sense that tells the body where it is in time and space. It is very important to the brain as it plays a large role in self-regulation, coordination, posture, body awareness and the ability to focus.

The educated and informed horse owner has a lot more power to help their horse these days, thanks to the availability of information (though sometimes it’s a minefield of information!). The bodyworker can only do so much, if the horse is having to cope with the compensations of a jaw or feet that are out of balance, or if there is a selenium or magnesium deficiency in the diet creating muscle tension for example.  The factors influencing horses’ mental and physical well being are multifactorial, which is why a holistic approach which embraces a more natural outlook can really make a difference in our horses’ lives.