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Infinity Equine, DE, PA, VA, MD, NJ, Chesapeake City, MD (2026)

05/31/2026

𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐚 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐋𝐢𝐬𝐚 𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐧𝐞𝐰 “𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐲” 𝐜𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭… 𝐚 𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐭 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐰𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝟏𝟗+ 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬!

Here, Christina is assessing spinal and rib mobility to evaluate the movement and function of each individual segment. What makes this work so fascinating is that what we feel through the body externally reflects what is occurring internally within the pelvic, abdominal, and thoracic cavities.

Many people assess the horse only from a musculoskeletal perspective. However, by understanding the body osteopathically, we can recognize patterns that narrow down deeper visceral or functional imbalances contributing to discomfort, compensation, or performance limitations.

Do you have a horse that constantly needs help or “adjustment” in the same areas? When the underlying cause inside the body remains unaddressed, compensatory and decompensatory patterns often continue to repeat themselves externally.

The body is truly fascinating.

If you’re interested in osteopathic assessment, work, training, dentistry, or podiatry, don’t hesitate to reach out. We love meeting new people and horses!

05/26/2026

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐥𝐲 𝐁𝐨𝐧𝐞…

Deep within the horse’s skull sits a structure so central, so quietly influential, that once you truly see its role—you can’t unsee it.

The sphenoid… often called “the butterfly bone,” a name linked to William Sutherland’s early cranial osteopathic work in the early 1900s. A bone like a bridge between systems, relationships, and motion.

This is not just anatomy in isolation.

It is connection.

Hidden within the core of the skull, the sphenoid sits in relationship with nearly every cranial structure... articulating with 12 cranial bones... helping coordinate balance, symmetry, jaw function, and the subtle motion of the head as an integrated system.

Within its structure are many openings called foramina (small passageways that allow critical nerves and blood vessels to enter and exit). Among them is the pathway associated with the optic nerve, directly linking to vision itself. These are not incidental details; they are reminders of how densely interconnected this region is.

When a structure like the sphenoid moves, rotates, or is restricted, it is reasonable to appreciate that even subtle shifts in its relationships could influence the function of nearby neural and vascular pathways within the cranium.

And when you begin to appreciate that… something shifts.

Because the horse does not separate the skull from the body.
Or the jaw from the spine.
Or the teeth from the way the whole system organizes itself.

It is all communication.

The sphenoid becomes a key point in that conversation... its position and relationships influencing cranial alignment, TMJ balance, tongue and hyoid function, cervical posture, and the deeper patterns of tension and adaptation that travel beyond the head.

On its inferior surface sits a small, saddle-shaped depression called the sella turcica (Latin for “Turkish saddle”). A remarkably fitting image in equine anatomy. This structure houses the pituitary gland, a central regulator of endocrine signaling.

The pituitary acts as a messenger interface between the brain and the rest of the body, helping regulate hormone production across multiple systems. In particular, the anterior pituitary releases adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which signals the adrenal glands to produce cortisol... a key hormone involved in metabolism, stress response, growth, and body composition.

This is where the “lightbulb moment” happens.

When we realize that what presents as a localized issue (such as dental imbalance or asymmetry) may in fact be part of a wider network of cranial relationships, adaptive processes, and regulatory function.

Suddenly, the horse is no longer seen in pieces.
But as one continuous, intelligent, compensating whole.

And dentistry becomes something more than maintenance of enamel.

It becomes an opportunity to observe function.
To recognize compensation.
To understand how structure and system are constantly negotiating balance.

When the sphenoid is understood in this way, it changes how we look at the horse entirely.

Because sometimes the most important structures are not the ones you see first…

They are the ones everything else is listening to.

*Images taken from Google Images*

05/23/2026

𝘿𝙤𝙚𝙨 𝙞𝙩 𝙢𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙤𝙧 𝙣𝙤𝙩?

This is how we evaluate the ENTIRE body — from nose to teeth, hoof to tail.

𝙄𝙛 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙢𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙞𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙛𝙪𝙣𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙨 𝙞𝙩 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙.

That applies to every system in the body — muscles, ligaments, fascia, joints, organs, fluids, nerves, tissues and even at the cellular level.

The body is designed for motion, adaptation and balance.

Our focus is identifying areas of restriction, compensation and loss of mobility — then helping restore normal movement and communication throughout the body.

Suppressing a symptom or reaction may temporarily quiet the body, but it does not address why the dysfunction developed in the first place.

The body is constantly attempting to maintain balance and adaptability (homeostasis). When mobility is lost, compensation patterns begin. Over time, those compensations can affect far more than the original area involved.

Considering all aspects of the horse and its environment, our goal is to support the body in doing what it was inherently designed to do.

If you would like to connect or set up an appointment, reach out!

05/21/2026

𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐂𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐧 𝐎𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐃𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞?

We worked with an 11-year-old mare whose owner had us out for dental work. The mare presented with girthiness, hormonal and often kicked out with her right hind leg under saddle.

Assessment:
Our assessment revealed multiple mobility restrictions, most notably pointing to the right o***y, with a corresponding restriction pattern in the mandible, spine, and limbs. A dental check also showed imbalances in the teeth, TMJ, and cervical spine.

Initial Approach:
We addressed nutrition, body balance, and overall function. Early improvements were seen, but the ovarian restriction persisted at the second visit. Because of this, we held off on dental corrections, recognizing the teeth were not the primary “cause.”

Breakthrough:
After the ovarian restriction was resolved, changes implemented and allowed time for the body to integrate. We reassessed the mouth. By the third visit, the only dental adjustment needed was a few light swipes to the lower left incisors, a dramatic shift from the original imbalances. Restoring mobility in the pelvic region allowed the interconnected systems of the body to release and hold changes. This enabled the horse to function better and naturally correct some dental imbalances.

Takeaway:
When the true cause is addressed, the body often restores balance on its own. This prevents premature or unnecessary interventions and supports long-term health, comfort, and performance.

This mare’s case highlights the deep interconnectedness of the body, and the reward of supporting a horse’s natural ability to heal and thrive.

05/20/2026

𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐭𝐚 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐖𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝐬𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐥𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐅𝐔𝐋𝐋!

For those of you down south or up toward New England, we haven’t forgotten about you. We are actively working on getting routes organized and will be making our way to you in the near future.

We truly appreciate everyone’s patience, support, and trust. We’re looking forward to helping more horses and connecting with all of you soon!

05/19/2026

𝑨 𝑺𝒉𝒂𝒅𝒐𝒘 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑬𝒒𝒖𝒊𝒏𝒆 𝑾𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅

Bullying in the equine industry isn’t talked about enough. It shows up in many forms, often leaving an undercurrent of fear: fear of how you or your horse may be treated, fear of slander, or fear of losing connections and opportunities you’ve worked hard to build.

But it shouldn’t be this way.

The turning point often comes when you start asking questions, trusting your instincts, listening to your horse, or seeking new knowledge or professionals. That’s when pushback begins.

Groupthink can be powerful, and suddenly, you may feel pressure to conform to barn culture, social norms, or the “way things have always been done”—even when it doesn’t serve you or your horse.

Authoritative influence plays a big role here: an awarded rider, popular trainer, or titled professional can shape what’s considered “right,” leaving little room for your own judgment or autonomy.

As adults, we’re often harder on ourselves. Sometimes, we stay in toxic circles longer than we should. But growth means learning, unlearning, and moving forward—even when it’s painful. Realizing the community around you isn’t what you thought can feel heartbreaking. Yet we carry a responsibility: not just to ourselves, but most importantly to our horses. If we don’t stand up for them, who will?

Maybe you’ve seen or realize unfair training or riding, harsh instruction, a poor environment, or care practices—like hoof balance or diet—that need change. Moving on isn’t easy, especially when others resist open, civil discussion. But the horse’s welfare must always come first.

This journey is lifelong. New facts, ideas, and perspectives can feel overwhelming. Many of us have thought: “I believed I was already doing my best.” That feeling is universal—and it’s okay.

What matters is building an open, supportive community where both horses and humans can thrive.

Standing up for yourself and your horse isn’t always easy. But it’s always the right thing to do. It will filter out what isn't aligned with your journey.

Your horse will thank you—and your heart will be at peace.

05/16/2026

𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑 𝐅𝐋𝐎𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆
The impacts of over floating create havoc, not only in the mouth, but throughout the head, neck, and entire body.

For example:
Imagine if too much tooth was removed from your molars (which is extremely common in horses). The molars would no longer meet properly. How would you feel if someone filed your molars down too far? What compensations would your TMJ make? And how would that affect every joint in your head and neck?

At the very least... you’d have a headache.

Now ask yourself:
How many horses do you know with sensitivities at the poll?

Our goal is to change the paradigm of equine dentistry, for the horse’s sake.

With over eight years of formal education, our dentist understands full-body mobility and its relationship to dental balance. This allows the teeth to be approached very differently than modern, reduction-based dentistry. The focus is not on removing tooth, but on preserving balance, function, and integrity.

Each horse is viewed as an individual. Through an osteopathic lens, we aim to preserve dignity, improve mobility, and support the horse’s natural ability to self-maintain, as they were designed to do.

And yes, horses are meant to do that… if we allow them.

We offer:
Equine Osteopathic Dentistry
Consultations
Complex and difficult cases
Routine dental care

Equine Visceral Osteopathy
Equine Osteopathic Podiatry
Nutrition & Diet Consultations
Riding, Training & Behavior Assessments

As appropriate changes are made and the horse regains balance, many clients find they actually save money over time, because their horse maintains themselves more effectively.

Interested in Equine Osteopathic Dentistry, consultation, or care?

Reach out, we’d love to work with you.

*The attached images are an example of imbalanced occlusion with infundibular caries. You can see the "shorter" areas are more prone to caries*

05/12/2026

𝐑𝐞-𝐄𝐯𝐚𝐥𝐮𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝, 𝐒𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐨𝐫 𝐇𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐞’𝐬 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐝, 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐮𝐦 𝐔𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐞 & 𝐃𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲
𝑨𝒏 𝑶𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒄 𝑷𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆

Humans are constantly evolving and trying to make things easier. When animals are involved, sometimes that convenience comes at the expense of the animal until we realize the “comfort” may only be serving the humans involved.

Equine dentistry is not easy. It is a talent that takes years to truly understand, and even then there is always more to learn. Every horse is different. Every compensation pattern is different. Every mouth tells a story.

Many educational programs teach different methods and perspectives, often within a 4–8 week timeframe.

European Visceral Osteopathy is a comprehensive study of the body as a whole, requiring many years of education involving anatomy, physiology, neurology, cranial structures, TMJ function, teeth, fascia, organs, and compensatory and decompensatory patterns... down to a cellular level.

This perspective reshapes how the horse is understood... not as separate structures, but as a fully integrated, adaptive system.

The position and duration in which we place a horse’s head and mouth into a speculum, stand, sling, or similar apparatus matters significantly, even under sedation. Sedation removes much of the horse’s natural muscular protection and behavioral feedback. A sedated horse cannot effectively communicate discomfort, strain, restriction, or neurological stress the way an awake horse can.

One of the biggest osteopathic concerns is prolonged extension and elevation of the head and neck during these procedures. The equine neck was not designed to remain in forced extension for extended periods while the jaw is simultaneously fixed open. In this position, significant strain can occur through the upper cervical region, particularly the occiput, atlas (C1), and axis (C2).

The apical ligament associated with C2 can experience sustained tensile stress in this positioning. This region is neurologically dense and mechanically essential for balance, proprioception, cranial nerve function, and overall postural regulation. Prolonged strain here can contribute to protective muscular guarding, inflammation, restriction patterns, and full-body compensations.

At the same time, the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are placed under unnatural mechanical pressure while held open with a speculum. The TMJ is designed for dynamic movement, not prolonged static fixation. When the jaw is held open and elevated, compressive forces can alter normal disc mechanics and surrounding soft tissue function.

This may contribute to disc restriction patterns, asymmetry, tension, poll sensitivity, trigeminal nerve irritation, difficulty flexing, altered chewing mechanics, behavioral changes, and compensatory/ decompensatory strain through the hyoid apparatus, tongue, cervical fascia, and the rest of the body.

𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐝𝐲𝐬𝐟𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐚𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐢𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐲. Horses are highly adaptive and compensatory animals. Symptoms related to dental changes, TMJ restriction, cervical strain, or neurological input alterations may not appear for weeks or even months after a procedure.

As compensatory/ decompensatory patterns accumulate and compressive forces continue over time, the body may eventually lose its ability to adapt efficiently. What initially appears insignificant may later present as resistance, asymmetry, muscle wasting, poll sensitivity, head tossing, altered gait mechanics, difficulty bending, lameness patterns, nervous system dysregulation, or chronic performance issues. Often, the original cause is no longer recognized because the symptoms appear long after the initiating stress occurred.

Osteopathically, the horse cannot be separated into isolated structures. The teeth influence the TMJ. The TMJ influences the cranial bones. The cranial bones influence the nervous system, fascia, posture, and the biomechanics of the entire body.

We should continuously re-evaluate whether some practices have become normalized for human convenience rather than true biomechanical consideration for the horse.

Just because a horse tolerates something does not mean the body agrees with it.

As understanding evolves, so should the willingness to question long-standing methods and consider how positioning, force, duration, and restraint may influence the horse far beyond the mouth alone.

At our practice, we approach dentistry through the lens of European Equine Visceral Osteopathy, taking the entire body into consideration rather than viewing the mouth as an isolated structure. We work to create the utmost understanding, relaxation, and comfort possible for the horse throughout the process. We utilize hand tools only, allowing for greater feel, precision, communication, and awareness of the horse’s responses and compensatory patterns during treatment. We do not use slings, stands, or power tools. We avoid prolonged continuous speculum opening and ensure horses receive appropriate breaks throughout treatment rather than being held for extended periods for human convenience. The horse’s comfort, neurological integrity, and long-term outcome remain the priority in every case.

**References & Further Reading**

* Sisson & Grossman’s *The Anatomy of Domestic Animals*
* Dyce, Sack & Wensing — *Textbook of Veterinary Anatomy*
* Jean-Pierre Barral — *Visceral Manipulation* & Osteopathic Studies
* Viola Frymann, DO — Cranial Osteopathic Concepts
* Equine TMJ anatomy and biomechanics studies
* Veterinary literature on upper cervical biomechanics and equine dentistry positioning
* Osteopathic principles of compensatory and decompensatory adaptation

About the Author
Christina Hall
Equine Osteopath, Equine Osteopathic Dentist & Podiatrist
Facebook: Christina Hall

*First image taken from Google Images*

05/08/2026

𝗢𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗰 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝗰𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵𝗲𝘀, 𝗠𝘂𝗱 𝗙𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 (𝗣𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻 𝗗𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘀)

Scratches, also called mud fever or pastern dermatitis, is a condition that shows up as inflammation, scabbing, and crusting on a horse’s lower legs. It is often linked to bacteria (such as Dermatophilus congolensis or Staphylococcus), fungi, and sometimes viruses or mites (UC Davis Center for Equine Health). While environment and hygiene are major factors, an important question remains: why do some horses tolerate even the harshest conditions while others develop problems so quickly?

From an osteopathic perspective, this comes down to more than just the outside influences we see, touch, and smell. Yes, we notice the scabs and inflammation outwardly, but a whole other environment exists inside the horse—the “internal environment.” This internal state is just as important, if not more (Animal Osteopathy Worldwide).

The body constantly works to maintain homeostasis—balance within all systems. When balance is present, the horse can withstand external stressors. When the body is already struggling to maintain that balance, outward symptoms like pastern dermatitis appear. It isn’t just “bad luck”—it’s a sign that the body cannot properly manage additional challenges (The Whole Horse – Equine Osteopathy).

For example:
A horse on a diet high in sugars and synthetics may develop circulatory issues. Good blood flow is essential to keep tissues healthy. If circulation is hindered—like stepping on a hose—the tissues don’t receive proper nutrients, leaving them vulnerable to bacterial or fungal infection. Over time, those areas become “weak links” where problems like scratches can arise ([Geor & Harris, Equine Applied and Clinical Nutrition, 2013]).

As osteopaths, we know no imbalance exists in isolation. The whole body is connected, and if one area is compromised, others are affected. When we assess a horse, we look for what’s not moving as it should—whether in musculoskeletal structures, visceral organs, or fascial tissues ([Barral & Croibier, Osteopathic Approach to Animals, 2009]).

Common contributors to pastern dermatitis include (but are not limited to):

• Poor diet and nutrition imbalances ([Geor & Harris, 2013])

• Hoof imbalances ([Clayton & Hood, Equine Veterinary Journal, 1987])

• Thoracic inlet restrictions ([Barral & Croibier, 2009])

• Dental imbalances (involving the entire stomatognathic system) ([Staszyk & Gasse, Equine Veterinary Education, 2004])

• Cranial, sacral, or visceral restrictions ([Barral & Croibier, 2009])

By addressing these underlying imbalances and supporting the body’s natural ability to heal, we can often resolve not only the skin symptoms but also the internal struggles that allowed them to develop in the first place.

If you’re frustrated with recurring scratches or mud fever, we’d be happy to help with a consultation.

Infinity Equine

05/31/2026

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