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The technique was developed by Mr Tom Bowen of Geelong, Australia (1916 - 1982). Little is known about Mr Bowen’s early life and how he became by his remarkable technique is not certain, however he worked on animals – greyhounds and racehorses – before he became busy as a therapist working primarily on people. With the effectiveness of his treatments it wasn’t too long before he was one of the busiest therapists around.
In 1974, the government of the state of Victoria commissioned a report into alternative therapies in the state and Tom Bowen voluntarily gave evidence to the panel.
WHAT DOES A TREATMENT SESSION INVOLVE?
Before any treatment involving a horse takes place it is necessary to obtain permission from your vet to treat the horse. Whilst this is a legal requirement it is useful to involve your vet if a diagnosis is required or if the horse is already undergoing treatment prescribed by them.
The first session starts by collecting information from the owner/carer to provide the background to the present problem and the horse’s general state of health. This gives an indication of the severity of the problem and how long it has been there. The horse’s static and dynamic conformation is assessed to give a starting point to measure any improvements by.
A discussion with the owner/carer to explore some of the possible causes of the problem (which may not be immediately apparent) is useful because if these causes can be eliminated or minimised then the likelihood of re-injury (so the problem recurring) can be reduced. Such causes include poor saddle fit, rider imbalance, accidental injury, stress or management issues.
The Bowen treatment on the horse is best undertaken somewhere the horse can stand quietly for approximately 45 minutes. As it is a gentle treatment many horses soon relax and some even drop off to sleep. They can have access to hay if they are more settled whilst eating.
The effects of the treatment can last for at least 3-4 days as the body is rebalancing and healing. Advice will be given on when the horse can be exercised and what sort of work would be appropriate.
Most conditions respond to three treatments about 1 week apart. For many horses, to maintain their condition and performance levels, a single ‘top-up’? treatment every 3-6 months is sufficient unless there is a re-injury.
The cost per treatment is £40 within the North West / North Wales region. Discounts are available for more than 1 horse or horse and rider visits.
The Bowen Therapy and Equine Bowen Therapy are not intended as a substitute for medical or veterinary advice or treatment. If in doubt please consult your doctor or veterinary surgeon.
PLEASE NOTE: The Bowen Technique is not intended as a subsitiute for medical advice or treatment. I recommend that you consult your doctor or veterinarian.