B o w e n T h e r a p y

What is it?

Bowen is a system of manually applied myofascial stimulation across an animals body. It involves a series of planned moves either singularly or sequentially within strategically placed body locations including specific muscle, fascia, tendons, ligaments, acu-points and trigger points. The precise location of the Bowen moves correlate markedly with much of the latest research into Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) meridian systems, acu-points and myofascial trigger point theories.

It is a soft tissue rolling /stretching/manoeuvring technique which is applied in a series of mostly two directional cross fibre movements using the thumbs and fingers on the skin
There are over 25 different Bowen moves and it is the correct selection and sequencing of the moves based on presenting problems that is important. Physical observation and palpation of the animal is taken to determine the moves .
The effectiveness of Bowen is linked to the manipulation of fascia and deactivation of trigger points and stimulation of acupressure points and the overall effect on the autonomic nervous system.
A Bowen treatment is usually not painful or invasive and produces a generally relaxing feeling.

Where did it come from?

Bowen Therapy, originated in Australia in the 1950s by Tom Bowen ( 1916 – 1982) Tom Bowen’s technique evolved throughout his years of practice. In the interview for the Webb Report of 1975, an Australian Government survey on natural therapies, it revealed that he was treating some 13000 patients per year, such was his reputation. He also had great success on the application of his techniques with horses. His techniques are now taught in Australia , USA , Europe and UK with professional accredited training worldwide.
The Bowen Therapist Federation of Australia is the national professional organisation for animal and human Bowen therapists and practitioners.

Treatment and how might my animal benefit ?

A Bowen treatment can vary from 20 minutes to an hour depending on presenting problems. There can be short rest periods between moves to cater for the animals temperament and this is considered in any treatment program. Improvement often becomes evident in the first or second treatment, particularly with acute musculo-skeletal problems. Depending on how chronic the condition is, more treatments may be needed or a maintenance therapy program designed

Bowen therapy assists with a range of problems and can assist in a number of ways -

Muscular-skeletal problems including lameness created by muscle soreness, soft tissue injuries, hip problems, stifle joint problems (including patella subluxations and stifle lock in horses), arthritis (some forms) paralysis problems and muscle spasms respond well to Bowen.
Improves overall joint flexibility and muscle integrity aiding in gait and mobility. Bowen particularly helps with horses that have tracking up problems and changes with lead changes and cross cantering.
Increasing lymph and blood circulation, aiding elimination of toxins, lactic acid and decreasing inflammation. This is very beneficial in assisting in injury recuperation and with immune diseases.

Bowen has also been successful with animals that have poor eating habits, anxiety and stress problems, breathing problems and skin conditions.

Bowen Therapy and the Performance Animal

A Bowen treatment for the first time can be a bit like going to the gym after a 6 month break. The next day you can expect to feel a bit sore due to the over use of the muscles. Because Bowen techniques are working over the soft tissue in a way that encourages the stretching of fibres there is likely to be a feeling of what is called ‘delayed onset muscle syndrome’, which is similar to the day after the gym workout. Whilst animals cannot tell us this , people who have experienced Bowen for the first time , often report this feeling. However this is only with the very first treatment. The body responds very quickly after that.

Light exercise, post a first and any subsequent treatment is highly recommended as it increases the lymphatic action which removes metabolic wastes from the body. Best to not race or compete with your performance animal within 4 days of a complete Bowen treatment. The treatment will have more opportunity to hold.

Bowen can be used to facilitate flexibility and mobility pre and post competition for performance animals. If canine or equine athletes have already experienced Bowen, "mini" treatments or singular moves can be done the day before or on the morning of a trial to increase circulation and overall flexibility without compromising performance. Bowen can be used remedially or as a preventative program with performance animals and Animal Equilibrium has successfully used Bowen Therapy in both contexts with canine and equine athletes.

Bowen Therapy at Animal Equilibrium

Helen trained with Lea Smart from SmartBowen, the leading school in Equine and Small Animal Bowen Therapy, providing specialised training and clinics on the application of Bowen Therapy with animals. Animal Equilibrium adopts and applies SmartBowen techniques and has had success in the use of Bowen therapy in a range of conditions including musculoskeletal problems, skin conditions and behavioural problems such as fear/anxiety with equines, canines and felines. See testimonials /case studies page for more information.

Contra-indications /Combining Therapies

It is suggested that the owner not combine other physical therapies such as chiropractics, physiotherapy, massage and osteopathy with Bowen Therapy or NOT Kinesiology on the same day as a consultation with Animal Equilibrium. It is recommended that there be some days to a week between them.

Animal Equilibrium encourages owners to discuss goals for treatment with their vet and/ any other animal healthcare provider and/or behavioural trainer. Animal Equilibrium works in a complementary manner with other providers and it is therefore important that all aspects of an animals treatment /care is known to ensure that a well informed complementary remedial or preventative wellness program can be designed.

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THIS PAGE WAS LAST UPDATED January 29, 2012

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