Veterinary Orthopedic Manipulation (VOM)
What Is VOM?
Veterinary Orthopedic Manipulation is a healing technology that locates areas of the animals’ nervous system that has fallen out of communication, and re-establishes neuronal communication and thus induces healing.
Is Veterinary Orthopedic Manipulation Chiropractic Care?
No! VOM exists in between veterinary medicine and chiropractic care. It has similarities to some of the chiropractic modalities and functions by restoring function by reducing “subluxations” as is done in chiropractic care. It uses a hand-held device that is used in a popular human chiropractic technique called “Activator Methods” but it is not to be confused with that technique. The differences between VOM and Chiropractic care are significant and distinct.
VOM exists in a gray area between both professions (Veterinary and Chiropractic) and benefits from the positive aspects of both, a hybrid, and thus more effective than either by themselves.
VOM is not animal chiropractic care and thus is not taught by the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association (AVCA). VOM is not recognized by the AVCA, (the AVCA does not recognize anything it does not teach).
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) does not recognize veterinary chiropractic care or the AVCA for now.
VOM is formally recognized in Washington State, by the American Holistic Veterinary Association, and the German Shepherd Clubs of America, to name a few.
History, Origination and Development of VOM
VOM was developed by WM L Inman BS, BS, DVM, CVCP, in Seattle WA, in Dr. Inman’s clinical practice from July of 1982 to date.
Before Dr. Inman began using these non-invasive techniques he was an accomplished veterinary surgeon and still consults in veterinary surgery. His vacillation to VOM from surgery reflects his frustration in in effective surgical solutions to common veterinary medical problems. VOM was developed in a vacuum, meaning it was developed with a trial and error approach in a clinical setting without input from other sources. Dr. Inman has been the sole source of the VOM Technology.
Cranio Sacral Therapy
Cranio Sacral Therapy is a gentle, natural process that is fully compatible with other conventional and alternative therapies.
Are you looking for alternative therapies to relieve your older dog’s joint pain? Has your horse’s sore back made him difficult under saddle? Is your cat looking stiff and uncomfortable after her nightly romp outside? CranioSacral Therapy is one of the alternative therapies that may be the answer to these concerns, as well as an effective way to promote optimal wellness and performance in your animals.
Developed by Dr. John Upledger, CranioSacral Therapy is a gentle, hands-on method of evaluating of enhancing the function of the physiological body system called the craniosacral system, which is comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround the brain and spinal cord. CranioSacral therapists use a very light touch, five grams or the weight of a nickel, to provide very deep work. Since the craniosacral system directly affects the central nervous system, an imbalance can cause any number of sensory, motor or neurological disabilities. CranioSacral Therapy helps correct those restrictions by engaging the body’s self healing mechanisms, so that the body can release the effects of injury, pain and stress.
Many conditions can be addressed with CranioSacral Therapy: arthritis, spine and neck injuries, lameness, head injuries, TMJ/jaw pain, chronic joint and spine pain, cancer, hip dysplasia, Lyme Disease, EPM, systemic disorders, post-surgical recovery, nerve irritations, laryngeal paralysis, behavior problems (such as bucking and running away in horses, or fear biting in dogs), and emotional problems. Animals can become stressed from pain, age and deteriorating health, as well as the hectic lives of their caretakers. A low level of anxiety from stress puts the animal in fight/flight response. CranioSacral Therapy helps restore a balance between fight/flight and rest/digest responses of the central nervous system.
A typical session lasts about an hour and pets choose a comfortable position, often lying down, for the session. Horses sometimes need to move a bit as they facilitate releases, so it is best for them not to be simply tied up for a treatment. Animals are very relaxed and many fall asleep for the session.
(reprint article by Sally Morgan)
Raindrop Technique
Raindrop Technique for dogs is a home remedy for dogs that uses a combination of essential oils and holistic modalities to bring harmony to the dog’s body.
The Raindrop Technique was developed by Gary Young, ND an expert in the field of therapeutic grade essential oils and founder of Young Living Essential Oils.
What are the Benefits of Canine Raindrop Technique?
Dogs can expect to have the same benefits of raindrop as humans. Listed below are some additional examples provided by holistic vets that use Raindrop Technique for dogs as part of their practice to help dogs live well:
- Support emotional and mental well being of the dog;
- Ease occasional muscle discomfort before and after training or showing;
- Use in conjunction with massage to ease muscle discomfort; and
- Support healthy immune system and other systems in the body.
It will also complement other holistic modalities including acupuncture, chiropractic and laser light.