Neurological Disorders Protocol

(Including EPM, Wobbler’s Syndrome, Ataxia, Stringhalt)

Protocol:

Begin with the Basics Course to learn proper tape handling, stretch, and technique. For all neurological disorders, always consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and medical management. We do suggest stepping up from the Basics Course to the Certification course for neurologic trauma cases.

• EPM: After veterinary treatment for parasites, use the Lower Leg Injuries (Applications Library) to prevent injury from instability. Use the Digestive Support application in the Neurologic Support Application (Applications Library) and apply the decompression section of the application over the spinal column at the location of nerve damage, as identified by clinical signs or veterinary imaging. On affected nerves, direct the tape tails toward the area impacted by neurologic dysfunction to promote nerve healing and new neural pathways.

• Wobbler’s Syndrome/Ataxia: Use the Neck Support-Pre/Post Chiro Application (Applications Library) and apply decompression strips along the entire cervical spine (C-spine), focusing on stabilizing individual vertebrae while allowing necessary movement for balance. Apply Lower Leg Injuries Module to prevent compensatory injury, and the Neurologic Support Application as detailed for the EPM protocol if nerve involvement is present anywhere in the legs. Treat the neck as a functional unit, even if only one vertebra is affected.

• Stringhalt (or any neurologic trauma): Use the Neurlogic Support application to decompress the spine where neurologic trauma or injury is present. Apply the tape tails towards the areas showing neurologic deficits to release fascia adhesions and stimulate the nervous system. Apply the Muscle Activation Application in the Application Library on any muscles that are not firing properly. Tape the hocks/carpus and lower legs for support if needed (Application Library), and implement a structured rehab plan.

Tape Type:

• 2-Way - 2" (recommended for most neurological & decompression applications)

• 2-Way - 3" (for larger horses, spinal decompression, or when additional coverage is needed)

• 4-Way - 2” (recommended for joint support applications)

When to Use:

• For horses diagnosed with EPM, Wobbler’s, ataxia, Stringhalt, or other neurological disorders (always after veterinary assessment)

• As part of a recovery or rehabilitation plan alongside veterinary care, appropriate medication, and structured exercise/rehab

• To support neurologic function, reduce compensatory injury, improve comfort, and promote nerve healing

How Long to Tape:

• Use applications continuously during the recovery and rehab period

• Reapply when tape loses its recoil, becomes loose, or collects debris underneath

• For chronic or severe cases, maintain applications for 6–8 weeks, re-evaluating every 7–10 days

• Continue until the horse has regained stability, strength, and coordinated movement

For Chronic or Slow-Moving Cases:

Complete the neurological protocol listed above for 6–8 weeks, then use the Fascia Chain Application for 2 weeks along affected fascia lines to break up fascia adhesions, rehydrate the fascia, and further rehabilitate nerves. Then repeat the original protocol until the horse has completely recovered. For extra prevention, you can do another 2 weeks of the Fascia Chain Application to ensure there are no lingering fascia restrictions. 

Neurological Management Note:

• Always follow veterinary advice for medical management and diagnostics

• Monitor for signs of instability, ataxia, or compensatory lameness

• Provide a safe environment to prevent injury from falls or incoordination

• Implement a structured rehab plan focusing on balance, proprioception, and muscle re-education

• Document response to taping and adjust protocols as needed

Clinical Reasoning:

These protocols support nerve healing, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation to affected areas. Decompression and fascia release applications restore normal nerve function and tissue mobility, and help create new neural pathways, while lower leg support prevents secondary injury due to instability. Neurologic Support tape applications target key nerve pathways and meridians, promoting optimal neurologic recovery. Consistent use enhances comfort, stability, and the likelihood of full neurologic rehabilitation.