SUMMARY

In this solo episode, we walk through the real-life framework I use every time I’m asked, “Should I try this?” Whether it’s red light therapy, PEMF, taping, spinal mobilization, or even just a new stretch or gadget, we break down how to move past the hype and make a sound clinical decision.

We’re talking about critical thinking and clinical reasoning—two terms that get thrown around a lot but rarely broken down in a way that feels practical. This episode is about making informed choices that actually align with the why behind your treatment goals, instead of grabbing at whatever tool is trending. If you’re a clinician, coach, or rider trying to filter through the noise, this one will sharpen your process.

KEY DEFINITIONS

• ​Critical Thinking: The ability to analyze information logically and independently, question assumptions, and evaluate claims with curiosity and skepticism. It’s not about being cynical—it’s about asking, “Does this actually make sense, here, for this patient?”
• ​Clinical Reasoning: A dynamic, evidence-informed process we use to make treatment decisions. It pulls from research, clinical experience, client input, and context to determine the most appropriate intervention.

EPISODE TAKEAWAYS

1. ​Understand the WHY• Pain is a symptom, not a diagnosis. We need to understand the underlying contributors—load, sensitivity, recovery, movement habits—before recommending any treatment.
2. ​Set Specific Treatment Goals• Is the goal to improve tissue capacity? Reduce sensitivity? Promote movement? Build confidence? Without a goal, we’re just throwing spaghetti at the wall.
3. ​Ask: Does This Modality Actually Address That Goal? • If you’re recommending something like laser, massage, or spinal mobilization, it better align with the system or structure you’re trying to affect.
4. ​Look at the Evidence • Is the support for this intervention coming from high-quality, independent research? Or is it mostly testimonials and brand marketing?
5. ​Compare Other Options • Even if a modality might work, is there something just as effective, more accessible, and less expensive? Is there something with lower risk? Active treatments like resistance training often outperform passive ones long-term.
6. ​Plan to Test and Measure • Don’t assume it works. Build in ways to assess before and after. If it doesn’t make an impact, it’s okay to change course.
7. ​Watch for Red Flags in Marketing • If it’s making big promises without much substance, pause. Words like “regenerates,” “balances,” or “detoxes” often signal more marketing than mechanism.

Keywords

equestrian, critical thinking, physiotherapy, horse care, treatment modalities, evidence-based practice, equestrian industry, clinical reasoning, horse health, rider health

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Life Updates

06:06 The Importance of Critical Thinking in Equestrian Care

Come say hi!

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• ​⁠⁠⁠Facebook: @theequestrianpt⁠⁠⁠
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• ​⁠⁠⁠Website: theequestrianphysio.ca⁠⁠⁠
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Empowering equestrian athletes of all levels and disciplines with evidence-informed rehab, strength & conditioning, care and education.

In this episode, we discusses the essential components of being an effective rider, and look at a framework that I like to use of six pillars: strength, mobility, body awareness, power, endurance, and skill. Training off horse is essential to build physical capacity and allow riders to focus on skill development while riding. We also touch on common misconceptions in equestrian training and the need for a overall approach to rider fitness.

Takeaways

• The six pillars of effective riding include strength, mobility, body awareness, power, endurance, and skill.
• Strength allows riders to stabilize their bodies under dynamic loads from the horse.
• Mobility is crucial for matching the horse's movements without causing discomfort.
• Body awareness is essential for accurate riding and effective communication with the horse.
• Power training helps riders respond quickly to the horse's movements.
• Endurance is necessary for sustaining performance throughout a ride.
• Skill development is what occurs in the saddle.
• Training in the gym should focus on building capacity rather than mimicking riding movements.

• Your horse should not be the means to get fit; riders need to be fit before riding.

Keywords

equestrian, riding, strength, mobility, body awareness, power, endurance, skill, training, fitness

Come say hi!

• ⁠⁠Instagram: @theequestrianphysio⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠Facebook: @theequestrianpt⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠TikTok: @theequestrianphysio⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠Website: theequestrianphysio.ca⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠Get the Training App!⁠⁠

Empowering equestrian athletes of all levels and disciplines with evidence-informed rehab, strength & conditioning, care and education.

In this episode, we chat about the principles of rehabilitation, focusing on pain management, understanding diagnoses, and the importance of movement and recovery.

Takeaways

• Rehabilitation is not just about exercises; it's about understanding and managing symptoms.
• You are not defined by your diagnosis; it is just a part of your story.
• Imaging results do not always correlate with pain levels or functional ability.
• Pain is influenced by various factors, including stress and beliefs about movement.
• Gradual exposure to painful activities can help in recovery.
• Load management is crucial in rehabilitation; modify activities to find an entry point.
• Resting too much can lead to deconditioning; movement is essential.
• Sleep and recovery are vital for healing; prioritize them in your routine.
• Track your progress objectively to recognize improvements over time.
• Seek professional help for personalized rehabilitation guidance.

Keywords

equestrian rehabilitation, pain management, physiotherapy, musculoskeletal rehab, load management, graded exposure, recovery strategies, equestrian sports, injury prevention, strength training

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Equestrian Rehabilitation

01:59 Understanding Pain and Diagnosis

04:35 Principles of Musculoskeletal Rehab

10:43 Managing Pain and Load

19:18 Graded Exposure and Movement Strategies

Come say hi!

• ⁠Instagram: @theequestrianphysio⁠
• ⁠Facebook: @theequestrianpt⁠
• ⁠TikTok: @theequestrianphysio⁠
• ⁠Website: theequestrianphysio.ca⁠
• ⁠Get the Training App!⁠

Empowering equestrian athletes of all levels and disciplines with evidence-informed rehab, strength & conditioning, care and education.