Knowledge of anatomical structures is basic to understanding musculoskeletal function. Understanding how structure and function can influence movement, be modified by exercise, disease, malfunction or management and, by understanding the role and limitations of conformation, is crucial in observing and influencing anatomy in action.
Our 2020 conference will explore how understanding aspects of gross anatomy in action can make a significant contribution to the training, welfare and management of horses.
Dr Sue Dyson, our keynote speaker, who, amongst many other things is a specialist in Equine Orthopaedics from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, a European Specialist in Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation and an Associate of the European College of Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging, will be updating us on ‘What’s New in Lameness Diagnosis’ and suggesting ‘Ways we can Help the Horse who is Struggling in its Performance’.
On a personal level, having trained and competed horses at advanced level eventing and Grade A show jumping, this has undoubtedly contributed to Sue’s in-depth knowledge and understanding of performance problems in horses from all disciplines. Sue is also highly skilled in the diagnosis of both subtle and complex lameness cases.
In addition to Sue, we have a wonderful line up of knowledgeable and informed speakers all prepared to share their individual expertise with us.
Vibeke Elbrond, who is arguably the most experienced person in all aspects of equine myofascia will be sharing her thoughts on understanding locomotor myofascial connections. Having been a popular speaker at our last Loughborough conference and having been the course leader on our an exceptionally popular myofascial release course, Vibeke is, by popular request, returning this year. Incidentally, Vibeke is also delivering another myofascial course for us in April.
David Kempsell is a saddle engineer and horse-saddle-rider interaction specialist with an interest in the musculature of the horse. With the help of his unique life-size biomechanical horse model, David will be explaining the thoracic sling muscles related to asymmetry, saddle fit and interaction. David’s talks are always fascinating and provide much food for thought.
Applying human tendon research and rehabilitation to horses.
Dr Seth O’Neil will be enlightening us on the most recent thinking on tendon and tendinopathy management.
Describing tendinopathy as an imbalance in the rate of wear and repair he suggest that tendon rehabilitation in horses should include pain monitoring, which can be challenging in horses, and progressive loading and resistance rather than rest.
Having addressed the BEVA conference in 2018, we are very much looking forward to hearing what Seth has to say.
A very large component of anatomy in action is attitude, cooperation and temperament.
The everpopular Dr Andrew Hemmings will be returning again this year. The topic – ‘Training the Brain’. This is a complex subject encompassing many aspects of training, behaviour, anatomy and the central nervous system. We can’t wait to hear Andrew’s views on this challenging subject.
With a special interest in gastric ulcers and poor performance in sport horses, Richard Hepburn has provided gastroscopy services to Team GB for many years.
An FEI treating vet at 5* Badminton Horse Trials for over 10 years and at the London International Horse Show, Olympia, Royal Windsor Horse Show, he was also an onsite medicine specialist at the 2012 London Olympic Games. Currently working as a specialist in equine internal medicine at B&W Equine vets in Gloucestershire we are really looking forward to hearing about performance and internal abdominal anatomy.
Mark Johnson. We simply can’t wait to hear what Mark has to say! A sensitive caring farrier, Mark always studies how the horse moves, looks at the foot and leg balance from all angles, often photographs the foot then does as little as possible to achieve the maximum result to make the horse, comfortable and happy. Mark also lectures at our dissections and believes you can never stop learning. Whether trimming a barefoot animal or selecting the best type of shoe for a shod horse, Mark always takes his time to achieve a perfect result. Our horses wear Duplo shoes and we are all very happy with the result!
And that concludes a resume of our speakers. However, you can expect much more! This year we are proud to present our extended anatomy exhibition. With innovative displays, interactive opportunities and new models supported by video commentaries, this is an exciting educational experience not to be missed.
The conference centre at Loughborough is comfortable, attractive and warm, car parking easy, wonderful transport links whether by road, rail or air, delicious catering; a good selection of presentation stands and scientific posters all complete the experience. Make sure you take advantage of everything we have on offer. We are really looking forward to seeing you.
