Anatomy, particularly functional anatomy, is a vital and dynamic subject, an appreciation of which leads not only to superior husbandry and welfare, but also to a better understanding of the anatomical challenges associated with riding, training, overtraining, injury and rehabilitation. Using Alexa McKenna's fabulous illustrations, this book shows the correlation of the skeleton, muscular system and locomotion, providing a clear insight into the functional and dysfunctional horse. It also addresses the largely misunderstood concept of 'perfect conformation' and looks at the effect on function of the rider and tack, using cutting-edge diagnostic techniques such as thermal imaging and gait analysis. Again with the emphasis on the visual, readers will be able to appreciate how muscles function in differing athletic disciplines by analysing the heat generated in musculoskeletal structures after exercise. This will also highlight the importance of post-competition recovery. The book concludes with a range of useful techniques to improve the function of any horse, including stretches, taping, wrapping and other proprioceptive techniques to increase balance, flexibility, awareness and posture.
Author Biography
Gail Williams BA (Hons), V.Phys, PhD is a qualified Veterinary Physiotherapist and works with many top vets, horses and riders in the UK and in USA. She is the Head of Education and Training/Senior Consulting Veterinary Physiotherapist for the Association for the Scientific Study of Veterinary and Animal Physiotherapy (ASSVAP). Alexa McKenna BVM&S received her veterinary degree from the Royal (Dick) Veterinary School in Edinburgh and has been illustrating scientific texts and teaching material since 1984. She is currently a small animal general practitioner and continues her education in equine rehabilitation, physiotherapy and veterinary acupuncture. She lives in her home town of Santa Barbara, California.
