VetDynamics -
FAQ

Chiropractic and osteopathy are both manual therapy approaches, but they differ in focus and technique.

Chiropractic care primarily targets joint function—especially in the spine—with the goal of improving mobility and supporting the nervous system.

Osteopathy focuses more on tensions and restrictions in the soft tissues, such as muscles, fascia, or organ linings. 

The legal authorization to perform chiropractic treatment on animals varies across German-speaking countries due to differing national regulations:

In Austria, chiropractic techniques may only be performed by licensed veterinarians who have completed specialized training in animal chiropractic.

In Switzerland, both veterinarians and licensed human chiropractors with additional certified training in animal chiropractic are permitted to treat animals. Switzerland officially recognizes chiropractic as an independent healthcare profession, and there are dedicated courses and continuing education programs open to both veterinarians and chiropractors. As a result, human chiropractors with appropriate additional qualifications are legally allowed to treat animals.

In Germany, the legal situation is more complex. The professional title "chiropractor" is not legally protected, and chiropractic care falls under the "Heilpraktikergesetz" (German Alternative Practitioners Act). This means that both medical doctors and licensed alternative practitioners (Heilpraktiker) are allowed to perform chiropractic techniques. However, when treating animals, an additional specific qualification in veterinary chiropractic is required.

Chiropractors are recognized healthcare professionals in Switzerland, North America, Scandinavia, the United Kingdom, as well as in Australia and New Zealand. The title requires completion of a multi-year university degree program focused on human health. This intensive training includes anatomy, physiology, and chiropractic techniques—but is limited to human medicine.

The term “chiropraktiker” (used primarily in German-speaking countries) refers to individuals who have completed postgraduate training in chiropractic methods. This title may be held by medical doctors, veterinarians, physiotherapists, or alternative practitioners (such as Heilpraktiker). Because there is no uniform legal regulation for chiropractic education in Germany, Austria, or Switzerland, the scope and quality of training can vary, potentially resulting in differences in qualification standards. In Germany and Austria, the term “chiropraktiker” is also commonly used as an alternative to “chiropractor,” since the latter is not a legally protected title in those countries. Depending on the specific training focus, the title may apply to chiropractic treatment in either humans or animals.

In its preventive approach, chiropractic care is suitable for patients of all ages – especially for animals involved in sports or exposed to physical strain.

In the therapeutic (curative) context, the following signs may indicate that chiropractic treatment could be beneficial:

• back problems
• muscle tension
• event- or sports-related injuries
• preventive health care
• difficulty lying down or getting up
• reluctance to move
• nails dragging across the ground
• shortened stride
• lameness

The frequency and duration of chiropractic treatment in animals depend on several factors, including the type and severity of the condition, whether the issue is acute or chronic, and how the individual animal responds to therapy.

In acute cases, two to three sessions are often sufficient to achieve noticeable improvement. The first follow-up usually takes place after about two weeks, with further intervals determined individually.

Chronic conditions or structural changes in the musculoskeletal system often require ongoing chiropractic care. The ideal interval between treatments varies depending on the individual case but typically ranges from one to three months.

For preventive purposes, to maintain mobility and prevent functional restrictions, it is generally recommended to schedule one to two chiropractic sessions per year for each animal.

Chiropractic treatment is not suitable in all cases. Contraindications include:

• bone cancer (osteogenic tumors)
• the final trimester of pregnancy
• acute trauma with suspected fractures
• acute intervertebral disc herniation
• severe or unclear symptoms requiring conventional medical diagnosis and treatment

In case of doubt, a veterinary examination should always be performed before starting chiropractic care to rule out potential risks.

No – chiropractic care is considered safe when performed by a qualified and properly trained professional. As with any medical intervention, a thorough individual assessment is essential beforehand, especially in cases of acute symptoms, to rule out risks and ensure appropriate treatment.

No. Chiropractic care is aimed at restoring normal joint and spinal function by resolving restrictions and correcting dysfunction. When applied correctly by a qualified practitioners, it improves stability, coordination, and mobility—rather than compromising them.

No. The term “popping joints back into place” is commonly used in everyday language but does not accurately describe chiropractic care. It falsely suggests that bones are dislocated and simply pushed back into position. In reality, chiropractic treatment involves specific adjustments and mobilizations of the musculoskeletal system. These are controlled, precise thrusts applied to restricted joints—most often in the spine—with the goal of restoring normal movement and correcting functional disturbances. It’s about improving mobility, not relocating bones.

The cracking sound that sometimes occurs during chiropractic treatment is caused by a phenomenon known as cavitation. It results from a sudden drop in pressure within the joint fluid, leading to the release of tiny gas bubbles—similar to the sound when opening a soda can. This is a completely normal and painless process and does not indicate that bones have been “popped back into place.” It’s simply a natural byproduct of joint mobilization.

As with any medical intervention, side effects can occur with chiropractic treatment. However, they are typically mild and temporary, and can be grouped into two main categories:

Muscle soreness: Following treatment, some animals may experience mild soreness or temporary stiffness, similar to post-exercise muscle fatigue. In some cases, symptoms may initially seem slightly worsened. These effects are more common after the first few sessions.

Fatigue or tiredness: Some animals may appear more tired or require additional rest after treatment. This usually resolves within 24 hours.