The Importance of Veterinary Physiotherapy for Weanlings Post-Sale

Foals fresh from the sales, weanlings have undergone a few weeks of preparation and naturally face significant physical challenges. Ensuring they are supported through veterinary physiotherapy after purchase—and later, when they return to work after a turnout break—can make a huge difference to their health and development. Here’s why this matters:

1. Understanding the Demands of Sale Preparation

Preparing foals for sales often involves walking them in-hand building up to 20-30 minutes daily. While this routine builds discipline and presentation, it can also be tiring for a young, developing body. Repetitive walking over extended periods places strain on their muscles, joints, and ligaments, which can result in fatigue, tightness, and even muscle imbalances.

2. Why Post-Sales Physiotherapy Is Crucial

As foals grow and develop, their muscles are in a constant state of change (similar to a child). Post-sale, veterinary physiotherapy can help release the tension and tightness built up during the sales preparation period. It also ensures muscles and joints are flexing and extending correctly, reducing the risk of long-term imbalances.

Additionally, early intervention helps identify any issues caused by the intensive sale prep process, such as joint stiffness or uneven weight distribution. Addressing these problems early supports healthy growth and performance down the line.

3. Spotting the Signs: Does Your Foal Need Physio? 

Here are some common signs that your foal might benefit from physiotherapy: 

- Stiffness or reluctance to move freely. 

- Visible muscle imbalances or uneven development. 

- Difficulty flexing or extending joints.

- Shuffling/ jarred walk

- Toe dragging

- Behavioural changes, such as reluctance to be handled or moved. 

Catching these issues early can help alleviate discomfort and support optimal development.

4. Post-Break: Reassessing Growing Foals

Once your foal has had a few months to enjoy a turnout break, it’s essential to reassess their physical condition. Growth spurts during this period can lead to further changes in muscle development and alignment. A veterinary physiotherapy session at this stage helps ensure any new imbalances are addressed and promotes continued healthy development as they return to work.

5. What to Expect During a Physiotherapy Session

A typical physiotherapy session for a foal includes: 

Static and Dynamic Assessments: Observing how the foal moves and stands to identify any irregularities. 

Full Head-to-Toe Examination: Checking muscles, joints, and ligaments for tension, stiffness, or misalignment. 

Hands-On Treatment: Techniques to release tightness, restore flexibility, and correct alignment issues. 

By the end of the session, your foal will feel more comfortable, and their body will be better equipped to continue growing and developing correctly.

Physiotherapy is more than a luxury; it’s a valuable tool to support your foal’s physical well-being and future performance. Whether it’s right after the sales or following their turnout break, ensuring their muscles and joints are aligned and functioning optimally will set them up for a strong, healthy future.