Let’s consider the example of a car or bicycle wheel.

The circular shape of the wheel enables it to move freely and facilitates the movement of the car or bike on the surface it’s on. If the wheel were square instead of circular, it would hinder the natural movement of the car or bike.

It’s important to note that form follows function, which means that the design of an object should be based on its intended purpose, but that function follows form meaning that the function of a tissue or how it works will affect its shape.

In the same way, within the body, the perfect alignment of form and function is essential to maintain good health.

Let’s take the example of blood vessels in our body. When the blood vessels are too constricted or are being pressed by tension patterns or fascia, the form of the vessel changes, and it affects the blood flow through it.

The squeezed vessel’s form changes its function, and any changes in blood pressure or flow through that area lead to further changes in the structure. It may become dilated or less elastic, which can cause problems.

This is because the form of the structure governs the function, and vice versa, and they are both interrelated.

You would not drive a car that was not fit for purpose, so why would you ride a horse or compete a dog who is dysfunctional? Just as you would take your car to a mechanic, to fix it, or yearly for its service and MOT. It would be pertinent to take your animal to an osteopath whether it be for remedial care or for general maintenance and preventative healthcare.

As an osteopath, it is our role to support the animal in their return to optimal health by assessing them to identify the barriers to health. To identify areas of altered structure and function and to work with a multidisciplinary team, where appropriate, to support the owner in returning the animal back to optimal health.