Introducing Equine Sports Rehab of Wellington

As a direct result of Dr. Suzan Oakley’s vision, Equine Sports Rehab of Wellington has emerged as an innovative leader in advanced equine rehabilitation. One of the first things that sets this clinic apart is that Dr. Oakley is a lifelong equestrian, actively competes and trains horses in dressage and over the years has formed a clear method of biomechanically sound ground work to aid in rehabilitation and prevent injury in top sport horses.

In addition to correct rehabilitative exercise, Dr. Oakley is very hands on in every way. She has extensive experience, with very good results, in spinal manipulation (chiropractic) and myofascial therapy in addition to advanced training in imaging and sports medicine. She is board certified in Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation as well as ISELP certified and leaves no stone unturned when it comes to your horse’s recovery. In addition to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge therapies, the staff members are all horse people and each horse receives the same individual attention and care given to Dr. Oakley’s own personal horses.

 Conveniently located in Palm Beach County, Florida, Equine Sports Rehab of Wellington is easily accessible from Wellington and Ocala. The facility provides sports injury rehabilitation and post-operative care, welcoming horses recovering from surgeries such as colic surgery.

Services Offered

Sports Injury Rehabilitation:

Optimal sports injury or post-operative rehabilitation should result in your horse performing at the same or higher level than before the injury. Core strength, flexibility and proprioception are trained with specific physical therapy rehabilitation exercises and long lining to maintain your horse’s fitness during recovery. Dr. Oakley goes beyond traditional stall rest and hand walking with active rehabilitation plans specifically designed for your horse, incorporating principles from human physical therapy. 

Equine Spinal Manipulation and Bodywork:

Equine Sports Rehab of Wellington recognizes the importance of bodywork in maintaining the physical and mental well-being of horses while enhancing healing. Spinal manipulation (chiropractic), myofascial therapy and acupuncture release tension, improve circulation and neuromuscular function and decrease pain while your horse is recovering from his injury.

Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)

FES is an outstanding therapy to reduce back muscle atrophy, enhance core strength and provide normal mobility of joints. FES is the only electrostimulation system that produces contraction and relaxation of both superficial and deep muscle groups.  During rehab, FES strengthens muscle and helps maintain your horse’s topline without any wear and tear on the limbs.

Other Rehabilitation Therapies: 

Shock Wave Therapy is a non-invasive , high energy sound wave treatment proven to decrease pain and optimize healing. It is often used in treatment of tendon and ligament injuries, bone injuries, navicular disease and kissing spines.

LASER therapy is non painful and works through a process called photobiomodulation. Light energy stimulates cells to produce growth factors and natural anti-inflammatory substances. The horses really enjoy it and it is used to enhance tendon, ligament  and wound healing  and in the treatment of back pain.

Therapeutic ultrasound uses low frequency sound waves to create warmth deep in the muscle without overheating the skin. It is effective in treating tendons and ligaments and especially sore muscles and scar tissue.

Specialized Facilities

Equine Sports Rehab of Wellington understands the importance of maintaining both the physical and mental well-being of equine athletes. Recognizing the social nature of horses, Dr. Oakley designed a barn that allows horses to see each other during their time in rehabilitation. All stalls have an attached 12×12 matted “porch” so your horse can have “outside time” when he is ready. Horses are groomed daily and are kept in a comfortable routine, helping decrease stress during recovery. 

The facility has an arena and  “Euro – style” walker , both with well-groomed GGT footing, providing a safe and comfortable surface for your horse during their rehabilitation. 

On-Site Veterinary and Barn Management:

The presence of a board certified veterinarian living on the property and an on site barn manager underscores Equine Sports Rehab of Wellington’s commitment to excellent care. This immediate access to professional expertise ensures prompt attention if any adjustments are needed in the rehabilitation programs. 

Equine Sports Rehab of Wellington stands out as a premier destination for equine rehabilitation, driven by a passion for excellence and the well-being of these extraordinary athletes. With top-notch facilities, a dedicated team, and a commitment to personalized care, the business reflects the highest standards in the industry. As a haven where horses are treated with the same care as if they were Dr. Oakley’s own, Equine Sports Rehab of Wellington continues to make significant contributions to the health, happiness, and performance of horses in Wellington and beyond.