Focus on the Equine Spine (FES) is an international educational program developed for veterinarians, certified animal physiotherapists and other licensed professionals interested in increasing knowledge and expanding skills in physical examination, veterinary diagnostic techniques, treatment and rehabilitation of spinal-related disorders in horses using both traditional and integrative approaches.

Current spinal research and recent advances in diagnostic and advanced imaging techniques have created awareness of the prevalence and clinical significance of formerly under appreciated or undiagnosed spinal and sacroiliac disorders in horses. Detailed spinal examination, manual therapy techniques and specific rehabilitation programs provide an increased possibility for effective management of neck, back and sacroiliac problems in horses .
Taking up these developments, FES was established in 2005 in the Netherlands with the ambition to provide equine veterinarians and physiotherapists with a high-quality, clinically-oriented, evidence-based post-graduate education in all aspects of the diagnosis and management of neuromusculoskeletal issues of the equine spine and pelvis.

Course basics are:

• The conscious and full implementation of the course material into the veterinary setting ;
• The course material being offered against evidence based backgrounds ;
• An interprofessional and multidisciplinary approach in diagnosis, therapy and management of equine spinal-related disorders ;
• Integration of the axial and peripheral skeleton ;
• Equal dividing of theory and practical portions ;
• Systematic continuing education for graduates and instructors.