The Importance of the First Rib in Horses

Join us in this episode of Holistic Horseworks Talks with April Love as we explore the often-overlooked significance of the first mobility rib in equine anatomy. She sheds light on how misalignments of the first rib can lead to various issues with people such as thoracic outlet syndrome, frozen shoulder, tendonitis, bursitis, and carpel tunnel syndrome. So think about all the things it could be impeding your horse’s freedom of movement in the front end. This is what starts the high-low hoof syndrome, horse not picking up right or left lead, mysterious lameness, kissing spine, behavioral issues, and even roaring in horses requiring expensive tie-back surgery.

The Hyoid and First Rib Connection

Many people talk about the hyoid as the cause of an issue. The equine industry has established that the hyoid is connected not only directly to the tongue, forelimb, and poll but also indirectly to the hindquarter. However, looking at this from a holistic perspective, it is also important to consider what else the hyoid is affected by. The prominent first rib misalignment, as we talk about so often here at Holistic Horseworks, will not only impact the front end of the horse but also back to the hind end and even all the way up to the hyoid.

The Equine Ribcage: Anatomy, Biomechanics, and Connections

Get more power + stamina! The ribcage has a vital role in your horse’s overall function. Its extensive connections to breathing, intestinal health, the psoas muscle, and spinal health significantly enhance your horse’s performance capabilities.

Summer Travel Tips for Your Horse: Keep Them Happy, Healthy, & Hydrated

Traveling to summer shows and events can be exciting, but for our horses, it often comes with a heavy load of emotional and physical stress. Here are some key things to consider when prepping your horse for summer travel, and the strategies I’ve personally used to help mine stay healthy, limber, and ready to shine.

What To Do When Your Horse Colics While You Wait For The Vet

notually, it is a few HOURS before the vet can get to you, so what can you do to help your horse while waiting? Recently, I worked on some horses that were distressed with colic symptoms while I was at their farm. The first gelding, we got out of the colic by the time...

If you knew your horse was in pain, what would you do?

If you knew your horse was in pain the entire time you were riding your horse, would you be enthused to learn how to fix it? Unfortunately, most people do not realize they are riding a crooked horse and that makes me sad. Good news, it does not have to be that way!...

Natural Remedies for Laminitis in Horses

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Emotional Healing for Healthier & Happier Horses

Emotional Healing for Healthier & Happier Horses Share this episode:   Table of Contents   In this episode of Holistic Horseworks Talks, April Love delves into equine care, focusing not only on the physical aspects but also on the emotional well-being of...

Biomechanics of the First Rib

Ready to explore some insightful and helpful biomechanics info about your horse’s shoulder, first rib, front limbs, and hooves? Mastering this knowledge can keep your horse happy and moving freely well into their 30s! How do you know if your horse dealing with troublesome issues in these areas? Read on…

Caring for Older Horses: Arthritis, Mobility, Nutrition, and Hooves

In this episode of Holistic Horseworks Talks, April Love shares helpful practices for caring for older horses. She offers information not only about supporting the symptoms of arthritis but even more importantly, preventative measures to keep it at bay for as long as possible. April also shares many other useful tips for aging equines such as choosing healthy feed to keep on weight, the importance of daily stretching, and even hoof care.

Summer Heat and the Best Electrolytes for Horses

Summer Heat and the Best Electrolytes for Horses

As the summer heat sets in, it’s important to consider your horse’s electrolyte needs. Proper electrolyte supplementation can help keep your horse happy, healthy, and performing their best even in the hottest weather. Discover the importance of electrolytes and get our top recommendation for the best electrolytes, along with tips on when and how to use them effectively.

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Summer Time Tune-Up for Your Horse

Summer Time Tune-Up for Your Horse

As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, it’s time to give our equine companions the extra care they need to thrive during the summer months. From hoof health to hydration and performance support, here’s a quick guide to tuning up your horse for the season ahead.

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Biomechanics of the First Rib

Biomechanics of the First Rib

Ready to explore some insightful and helpful biomechanics info about your horse’s shoulder, first rib, front limbs, and hooves? Mastering this knowledge can keep your horse happy and moving freely well into their 30s! How do you know if your horse dealing with troublesome issues in these areas? Read on…

read more
Tips to Tune-Up Your Horse in Spring

Tips to Tune-Up Your Horse in Spring

As the vibrant colors of spring emerge and the weather warms, horse owners are gearing up to provide their equine companions with the care they need for the season ahead. Here are some essential spring tune-up tips to keep your horse happy, healthy, and ready for action.

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Maintaining Healthy Weight in Older Horses with Vegan Fat Sources

Maintaining Healthy Weight in Older Horses with Vegan Fat Sources

In this episode, our founder, April Love, shares valuable information on maintaining the well-being of older horses, focusing on a simple recipe for a vegan fat source. The discussion delves into practical tips for horses with missing teeth, difficulty gaining weight, and the importance of identifying and addressing insulin resistance.

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The Hyoid and First Rib Connection

The Hyoid and First Rib Connection

Many people talk about the hyoid as the cause of an issue. The equine industry has established that the hyoid is connected not only directly to the tongue, forelimb, and poll but also indirectly to the hindquarter. However, looking at this from a holistic perspective, it is also important to consider what else the hyoid is affected by. The prominent first rib misalignment, as we talk about so often here at Holistic Horseworks, will not only impact the front end of the horse but also back to the hind end and even all the way up to the hyoid.

read more
Are you ready to treat a wound in an emergency?

Are you ready to treat a wound in an emergency?

In this episode of Holistic Horseworks, April retells a story about an incident in one of her clinics. Despite being told repeatedly to NOT tie the horse to the corral panels, one student did just that. When the horse spooked, the corral panel hit another student in the head and caused a small but bloody gash. While her students were wondering what to do, April stepped in to treat the wounded student.

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Caring for Older Horses: Arthritis, Mobility, Nutrition, and Hooves

Caring for Older Horses: Arthritis, Mobility, Nutrition, and Hooves

In this episode of Holistic Horseworks Talks, April Love shares helpful practices for caring for older horses. She offers information not only about supporting the symptoms of arthritis but even more importantly, preventative measures to keep it at bay for as long as possible. April also shares many other useful tips for aging equines such as choosing healthy feed to keep on weight, the importance of daily stretching, and even hoof care.

read more
How does your horse’s environment affect their mood?

How does your horse’s environment affect their mood?

In this episode of Holistic Horseworks Talks, host April Love delves into the often unseen environmental factors that can significantly affect a horse’s behavior, mineral assimilation, and overall immune system.
Through insightful anecdotes and practical advice, April sheds light on how power lines, water sources, and even natural elements like trees out in the pasture can impact a horse’s well-being.

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The Importance of the First Rib in Horses

The Importance of the First Rib in Horses

Join us in this episode of Holistic Horseworks Talks with April Love as we explore the often-overlooked significance of the first mobility rib in equine anatomy. She sheds light on how misalignments of the first rib can lead to various issues with people such as thoracic outlet syndrome, frozen shoulder, tendonitis, bursitis, and carpel tunnel syndrome. So think about all the things it could be impeding your horse’s freedom of movement in the front end. This is what starts the high-low hoof syndrome, horse not picking up right or left lead, mysterious lameness, kissing spine, behavioral issues, and even roaring in horses requiring expensive tie-back surgery.

read more
Horses Grieve, Too. How to Help Them.

Horses Grieve, Too. How to Help Them.

In this episode of Holistic Horseworks Talks, April offers guidance on helping your horse cope with the loss of a pasture mate. Horse’s herd is their family, and the absence of a companion can be deeply distressing. While it’s natural to want to replace the lost companion immediately, April suggests giving your horse space to grieve and process their emotions.

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Why won’t my horse pick up its hoof?

Why won’t my horse pick up its hoof?

In this episode of Holistic Horseworks Talks, April, addresses a question about a horse that refuses to pick up one of its hooves. If the horse is avoiding putting weight on one hoof, the focus should be on understanding why it’s uncomfortable shifting its weight rather than forcing the hoof to be lifted.

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Do you have a “Moody Mare?”

Do you have a “Moody Mare?”

In this episode of Holistic Horseworks Talks, April Love discusses ways to handle moodiness in mares during the summer when they are cycling. The main concern is that the moody behavior may affect interactions with other horses, and impact performance at horse shows or events. By understanding the mare’s specific needs, balancing her hormonal system, and addressing any physical discomfort, it becomes possible to improve her behavior and overall well-being. Similar to humans, horses can become irritable when in pain.

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Young Horses With Cow-Hocked Posture

Young Horses With Cow-Hocked Posture

A cow-hocked horse refers to a conformational issue where the horse’s hocks are positioned closer together than normal when viewed from the rear. We’ll explore why this happens and discuss ways to address and prevent such issues for a healthier, sound, and rideable horse.

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Black Horses That Fade Out in Summer

Black Horses That Fade Out in Summer

Does your black horse fade to brown in the summer? In this episode of Holistic Horseworks Talks, April discusses how the color change is likely due to a copper deficiency in the horse’s diet. She suggests feeding the horse Dynamite Liquid Trace Minerals once a week to provide the necessary copper and prevent the fading of its black coat.

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April’s Interview on Bookish Talk

April’s Interview on Bookish Talk

Although I spend a lot of time caring for horses, I really care about people, too. I believe that by helping the owner, in turn you are helping the horse! A lot of the techniques in my equine...

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Your horse is wounded! Quick, what do you do?

Your horse is wounded! Quick, what do you do?

What’s the first thing you should do to clean an equine wound? How about the second? And aftercare? Learn what I’ve used to care for horse wounds quickly and successfully in the past, as well as what not to do.

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