This lecture is brought to you by UT/VAHL

This presentation will explore the dynamic partnership between physical therapists and veterinarians in optimizing the health and performance of both horse and rider. Attendees will gain insight into the educational background and clinical expertise of physical therapists, and how their unique skill set complements veterinary care in equestrian disciplines. A focus on how rider alignment and movement patterns directly influence equine function will be highlighted through use of anatomic descriptions and case-study examples. In addition, an emphasis will be placed on how a team-based approach to addressing biomechanical faults in both horse and rider can lead to improved outcomes in equestrian sports.

Kirk Peck

PT, PhD, CSCS, CCRT, CERP
Associate Professor, Creighton University, Omaha, NE Dr. Kirk Peck is presenting on behalf of the Veterinary Academy of Higher Learning and in cooperation with STAAR Conference.

Dr. Peck received a BS degree in Exercise Science from Kansas State University, a Master of Science Degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Kansas Medical Center and PhD from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. His clinical expertise involves treating sports and orthopedic related conditions in humans, horses, and dogs, in addition to providing physical therapy for the Native American population in an ambulatory clinic governed by the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska. Dr. Peck is past President (2013-19) of the Animal Physical Therapy Special Interest Group of the APTA Orthopedic Academy of Physical Therapy, and current SIG liaison to the World Physiotherapy Animal PT Network. He is a core instructor for a certification program in equine rehabilitation at the University of Tennessee, and instructor for Sierra Peaks Animal Rehabilitation, Denver, Colorado, focused on canine physical therapy. Dr. Peck serves on the Board of a non-profit organization, Ignite for Equine Athletes, spearheading s

everal national and international presentations on horse and rider biomechanics. He also serves on the editorial board of an Elsevier publication entitled, “Journal of Equine Rehabilitation”. Dr. Peck is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at Creighton University, Omaha, NE, where he teaches in the realm of clinical exercise physiology, health & wellness, healthcare systems, and political advocacy for the profession of physical therapy. He is also the current Chair of the Licensure Board of Physical Therapy in Nebraska.

Sessions:: Wed. Apr. 29th, 4:30pm - 6:30pm
Credits:: 2.0 RACE approval pending; 2.0 NYSED-approved
Policies:: To request a refund, please complete and postmark this Workshop Cancellation Form by March 28, 2026. Refunds exclude a $25 processing fee.