Equine Functional Therapy - Sophie Vandenberg

17/09/2026

Episode 103 - Guest: Sharon May-Davis - Grading ECVM (Equine Complex Vertebral Malformation)

ECVM is more than simply identifying an anatomical variation in the lower cervical spine.

In this episode, Dr. Raquel Butler and Sophie Vandenberg are joined by Dr. Sharon May-Davis PhD to explore the history, research and grading of Equine Complex Vertebral Malformation (ECVM), and what different presentations may mean for the individual horse.

We discuss:
🔍 How ECVM was first identified and how the research has developed
📊 How the C6 grading system works and why Grade 4 horses may require further support and investigation
⚖️ The difference between unilateral and bilateral ECVM presentations clinically
🦴 How changes to the longus colli may influence cervical stability, posture and movement
🐴 Early signs to observe including tripping, toe dragging, hypersensitivity and unusual behaviour
✅ Why early investigation, appropriate management and responsible breeding decisions matter
https://open.spotify.com/episode/5YKmWS5VW84IchEnwPYI8q

The Equine Functional Posture Podcast · Episode

17/09/2026

Pain in horses is not simply a direct measure of tissue damage.

In this episode, we explore what pain actually is, how the nervous system contributes to the pain experience, and why persistent pain can become much more complex than simply finding an injured structure.

We discuss:
⚡ Acute pain versus persistent or chronic pain
🩹 Why pain can continue after tissues have healed
🧠 How previous experiences can influence future pain responses
🔄 Central sensitisation and an increasingly sensitive nervous system
🌍 The biological, psychological, social, environmental and lifestyle factors that can influence pain
🐴 How pain may appear through changes in behaviour, posture, movement and facial expression
https://open.spotify.com/episode/12IIRxxYsUn0tXxMdaEJti

The Equine Functional Posture Podcast · Episode

26/08/2026

Cannot believe we have made it to Episode 100!! Thankyou all for listening, sharing and giving us wonderful feedback about how this podcast has helped your horses! 💕

Episode 100: Degenerative Suspensory Ligament Desmitis... Or Something Else?

A dropped fetlock is often associated with Degenerative Suspensory Ligament Desmitis (DSLD), but does a sinking fetlock always indicate this degenerative disease?

Today we explore the current research around DSLD, discuss where the evidence is strong, where it remains uncertain, and why whole-body posture and loading may be an important part of the picture.

We discuss:

⚖ Suspensory ligament, pelvic and spinal function influences on distal limb loading
🩻Diagnostic limitations, training surfaces, hoof balance and inflammation
✅Practical ways to support a horse who has sinking fetlocks

A key question throughout the episode: are we sometimes diagnosing a degenerative ligament disorder when we are actually seeing the consequences of chronic postural dysfunction and inappropriate loading?

A dropped fetlock is often associated with Degenerative Suspensory Ligament Desmitis (DSLD), but does a sinking fetlock always indicate this degenerative disease? Today we explore the current research around DSLD, discuss where the evidence is strong, where it remains uncertain, and why...

22/08/2026

When should we start riding a young horse?!

There are strong opinions at both ends of the spectrum: start them young so the body adapts to load, or wait until the growth plates have closed before riding. In Part 2 of our growth plate series, we look at why the answer is much more individual than simply choosing an age.

We discuss the difference between loading and overloading, and why skeletal maturity alone doesn’t necessarily mean a horse is physically prepared to carry a rider.

In this episode we explore:

✅How young horses can be conditioned before they are ridden
✅Straight lines, proprioceptive exercises, transitions and varied surfaces
✅Building core strength, joint stability and body awareness
✅Recognising fatigue and changes in posture under load
✅Why recovery time matters as bone adapts to exercise
✅The importance of hoof care, saddle fit, bodywork and the horse’s environment
✅Exercises and loading patterns to be cautious with during growth

When should we start riding a young horse? There are strong opinions at both ends of the spectrum: start them young so the body adapts to load, or wait until the growth plates have closed before riding. In Part 2 of our growth plate series, we look at why the answer is much more individual than...

24/06/2026

Did you know you are IRREPLACABLE in your horse's pathway forward for a more balanced, functional and enjoyable experience of life? We can often downplay our own role, and feel that we need to keep searching and find the perfect bodyworker, saddle fitter or hoofcare professional. There are all very important members of the team but you are also just as valuable!! Very blessed to have many clients who see their role as being a steward of their horse’s lifestyle and movement.

16/06/2026

Are you activating your horse's muscles well? When done correctly activations may be some of the most valuable exercises we have in creating a responsive and stable posture for our horses!!

Activations: Waking Up Better Movement

Activations are one of the ways we can help prepare the horse’s body for better posture, stability and movement. They are not just exercises to “switch muscles on”, but a way to improve awareness, motor control and the quality of muscle recruitment before and during work.

In this episode, we unpack:

✅What activations are and why they matter in postural rehabilitation
💪How we carry out activations with specificity to target specific muscles
🧘How activations prime nerves and muscles for co-ordination and balance
🧐The difference between true activation and bracing
🏋️‍♂️Why rest, release and time under tension are so important for making the activation effective
🥕Examples of activations including tail shifts, belly lifts and carrot stretches
🔄How activations fit into the bigger picture of assessment, exercise and reassessment

Master the essential, proven, science-based tools to understand posture, movement and behaviour from the inside out - so you can create real, lasting change without overwhelm, pressure or confusion. Enrol now and transform how you support your horse’s body, balance and wellbeing: Equine...

08/06/2026

This weeks posture podcast!! Episode 89: Collaborative Rehab; Conversations with Your Veterinarian!

Today we are empowering you with the skills to create better conversations with your vet around rehabilitation, especially once a diagnosis has been made. We explore why a rest alone is not the same as rehab, how controlled loading and functional posture can support healing, and how owners can respectfully advocate for a more collaborative recovery plan.

In this episode, we explore

🙌Questions you can ask your vet to guide the rehab conversation respectfully
✅How being proactive and taking responsibility as an owner allows your vet to help you the best they can
‼️How rest can reduce strength, stability and core function
🤸‍♀️Why rehabilitation is about more than just walking the horse
🧰What therapeutic tools, exercises and knowledge you can access to have an excellent recovery journey
🧐When it may be appropriate to seek a second opinion or a vet with rehab experience

Discover The Hidden Physical Issues Behind 5 Common “Behavioural” Problems And How To Solve Them - Without More Pressure, Treatments Or Training Techniques Register for my FREE Online Masterclass - Sunday June 14th https://www.integratedvettherapeutics.com/registrationpbmc Collaborative...

03/06/2026

Lost of discussion about.... Healthy Head and Neck Posture!

Head and neck position alone does not create self-carriage, collection, or correct biomechanics. Today we are discussing how the poll, jaw, neck muscles, cranial nerves, hyoid, nuchal ligament, back, and pelvis can all be affected when the head and neck are held in position rather than responding freely to whole-body posture.

In this episode, we unpack:

✅Why head position should be the result of whole-body organisation
💪How thoracic sling, core, and hindlimb engagement support healthy flexion
🤕What can happen through the jaw, poll, throat latch, and upper neck when flexion is manufactured
😴How fatigue can show up as heaviness, bracing, rushing, or loss of adjustability
🧐What owners can look for before, during, and after work

Healthy Head and Neck Posture Head and neck position alone does not create self-carriage, collection, or correct biomechanics. Today we are discussing how the poll, jaw, neck muscles, cranial nerves, hyoid, nuchal ligament, back, and pelvis can all be affected when the head and neck are held in...

13/04/2026

Rebuilding Well: Bringing a Horse Back Into Work

Strap yourself in - this is an episode where you are going to want to take notes!

Today we are talking through how to bring a horse back into work without rushing the process and risking injury. Within 3 months of no work a horse's body looses their fitness. Fitness and strength is represented by physiological changes in the muscles and cells that increase energy storage, oxygen delivery and energy use efficiency. This lack of fitness means a loss of endurance, loss of strength, and reduced capacity to handle work safely. Today we aim to give you a specific roadmap including session length, intensity, frequency to bring your horse back into work safely!

This conversation is especially relevant for broodmares after a foal, or any horse coming back into work without an injury but with a body that still needs thoughtful reconditioning. It will be useful resource for every single person who rides a horse.

In this episode, we unpack:

🐴 Why 6 to 8 weeks is a realistic minimum timeline for rebuilding baseline fitness and why it is integral for injury prevention and your horse's wellbeing
🧐What to assess before you begin, including posture, core strength, laterality, and old compensations
💪How to structure the first few weeks with stability, balance, neuromuscular control, and short, effective sessions
🏃‍♀️When and how to introduce more trot, canter, and higher intensity work without overdoing it (including how long your increases in intensity should be)

Rebuilding Well: Bringing a Horse Back Into Work Strap yourself in - this is an episode where you are going to want to take notes! Today we are talking through how to bring a horse back into work without rushing the process and risking injury. Within 3 months of no work a horse's body looses...

08/04/2026

Episode 80: Guest Animal Communicator Trisha McCagh - What Horses Really Think

Trisha McCagh is a world renowned Animal Communicator - she has communicated with almost all animals you can think of and has so many amazing stories as well as being recommended by Veterinarians!

Today we discuss the profound communication between humans and horses. Discover how animals reflect our purpose, teach us about authenticity, and share their wisdom through subtle behaviors and telepathic connection.

In this episode, we cover:

🥰How animals may communicate about purpose, relationship, and what they are here to teach us including simplicity, fun, authenticity, and presence
🤐How labelling horses can interfere with understanding their behaviour
✅Why communication, trust, and cooperative care matter in handling and treatment
☯️If you have ever wondered whether animals are trying to tell us more than we realise, or how to build a quieter, more honest relationship with your horse, Trisha's knowledge will help you achieve just that.

You can find out more about Trisha McCagh at:
~ https://animaltalk.com.au/
~ Animal Talk Podcast with Trisha McCagh

https://www.integratedvettherapeutics.com/podcasts/the-equine-functional-posture-podcast/episodes/2149176386

Episode 80: Guest Animal Communicator Trisha McCagh - What Horses Really Think Trisha McCagh is a world renowned Animal Communicator - she has communicated with almost all animals you can think of and has so many amazing stories as well as being recommended by Veterinarians! Today we discuss the...