EquiNew prides itself on the extensive equine knowledge of one of the cofounders, Dr. Sheila Schils, who has been in the equine industry for over 25 years.  She was a Professor at the University of Wisconsin before beginning work in private practice in 2001.

Dr. Schils actively works in the field of equine rehabilitation, specializing in the use of electrical stimulation for physical therapy.  Her practice has involved all breeds and disciplines of riding from Western Pleasure to Saddle Seat to Jumping and Dressage.  Injury rehabilitation is her main work, however injury prevention is an important part of Dr Schils’ practice as well.

Dr. Schils’ education includes a Ph.D. in Biomechanics/Kinesiology and a Masters in Animal Science with an emphasis in Equine Nutrition.  She spent a year performing research with the International Equine Biomechanics Team in Sweden.  This interaction focused on the importance of evaluating the biomechanics of the horse when dealing with injury and recovery.  During her 20 years at the University of Wisconsin, Dr. Schils taught courses in equine health, management, biomechanics and kinesiology.

Dr. Schils not only has a background in research and education, but has also balanced that education with many years of riding and training horses and riders.  Therefore, her expertise in the field of physical therapy is supported by her practical experience working with horses and riders on a day-to-day basis.  To develop her riding skills, she has worked with leading trainers, including a year spent riding for Eric Lette in Sweden, the International FEI Chair of Dressage.  Her commitment to riding has led to numerous National and Regional awards in eventing and dressage.  Dr. Schils feels it is essential for the practitioner to be able to understand the details of the sport from a rider’s perspective, especially when setting up a physical therapy retraining protocol.

Dr. Sheila Schils at Prix St. George Regional Finals