Metody fyzioterapie u koní

The work summarizes the information on selected methods of physiotherapy of horses. These methods have a positive impact on solving some problems of the musculoskeletal system of horses caused by the excessive and irregular loading. The work deals with massage, stretching, massage using the Ttouch method, wrapping, and finally with the so called Dorn Method or application of flasks. Based on the available information dealing with this issue, the goal was to make a comprehensive overview of selected methods as used in the physiotherapy of horses. The work further summarizes the process, importance and practical usage of these methods. Moreover, also the effects of these methods on the musculoskeletal system of horses as depending on their anatomy and physiology are explained in here. The work also includes a record of the most common medical disorders of the musculoskeletal system of horses depending on the different riding disciplines.To obtain the field information a questionnaire was developed that was addressed to the riders, breeders and trainers. The questionnaire includes questions related to musculoskeletal disorders of horses, depending on the riding discipline. Furthermore, it reports on the frequency of using the selected methods as a prevention of musculoskeletal problems. The results show that although the respondents use the physiotherapy as a precaution against potential musculoskeletal problems, still more than 50% of horses suffer these problems