Pelvic Room Mobilizations Explained
The spine is a visceral representation of the organs. As osteopaths, we use the autonomic nervous system as a pathway to find the increase in sympathetic base activity, primarily in the spinal segments, correlating to the organs in disorder. The disorders could be due to several possibilities, such as general immobility, scar tissue, congestion, or pathology. Our goal is to find the organ disorder, through the neurologically innervating spinal segments; then to correct the organ disorder, which could lead to many different routes of corrections. Since there are 4 times more afferent (sensory), than efferent(motor) messages, sent from the organs to the spine, than visa versa, if a therapist finds a segment (multiple vertebrae restrictions in a row), it is most likely that the innervating organ is responsible for the spinal restriction, and/or pain. Organs move a WHOLE SEGMENT’s length, with every breath & stride, due to the respiration movement of the diaphragm! Any loss of visceral (organ) integrity, will restrict diaphragm movement (Th17-L5). Think about the effects, on not only the breathing, but how much the body’s pH, fascial strain, and general spinal mobility is affected, and compensates, from just ONE organ disorder. Now think about the loss of movement in the spine, trickling throughout the rest of the body affecting the stride.
One treatment that osteopaths around the world have had countless successes with, is called a “pelvic room mobilization.” It is a rectal mobilization, done by a vet, to correct immobility in the pelvic room. The procedure typically takes from 20-30 minutes. Prices vary by area, and by vet, but are generally around $100. During the procedure, the veterinarian evaluates the osteopathic mobility of the ovaries, uterus, bladder, fallopian tubes, internal inguinal rings (gelding scars area), semen chords (deferens ducts), cecum, kidneys, and spleen. They also look to rule out, or address, any pathologies of the organs in the pelvic room. For optimal results from a pelvic room mobilization, it is best to have an osteopathy session right after or within a week. Typically, these horses are recommended to have 7-10 days off, to let the body reset and find its new equilibrium and movement. The horses are typically a little sore from the internal, and external mobilizations. Most of the time, these horses only need one pelvic room to correct these problems, though there are special cases where follow ups are needed.
We are offer pelvic room mobilizations, as well as any other veterinary needs (x-rays, injections, bloodwork, scoping, dentistry, joint lameness exams etc.) at Associated Veterinary Services of Great Falls, Montana, every Tuesday. Contact Jordan to schedule at 740-507-6396!
https://www.associatedvetservices.com/
One interesting thing we see is loss of hip (coxae) mobility. Any pelvic room disorder will restrict the hip to adduction (loss of lateral movement), and decrease blood flow through the hind legs. The Urogenital tract innervates the L1-S1 segment of the spine and the internal obturator muscle (surrounds the hip). When the internal obturator muscle becomes hyper-toned from a pelvic room disorder, it causes a strain on the obturator membrane, which brings the hip into adduction, causing an obstruction on the acetabular artery. This restricts flow through the capitis femoris artery from the decrease in abduction hip movement. Often, these horses will stock up in the hind and/or stand with one leg in exo-rotation.
