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Neonatal Maladjustment Syndrome (NMS) is a condition seen in newborn foals that affects their behaviour and awareness. Foals with NMS may not recognise or bond with their mother, may not suckle normally, and can seem disoriented. More seriously affected foals may develop seizures. NMS was once thought to be caused by lack of oxygen during birth, but recent research suggests it may also be linked to high levels of calming hormones (neurosteroids) that usually decrease after birth but sometimes remain too high.
The Madigan Squeeze Technique, developed by Dr. Madigan, involves applying steady pressure using soft ropes wrapped in 3–4 loops around the foal’s chest and rib cage for approximately 20 minutes. This mimics the natural birth process and is believed to reduce neurosteroid levels that keep foals in a subdued, sleep-like state in utero. The foal typically lies down and enters a calm, trance-like state, then awakens more alert—often with improved responsiveness.
Drs. Aleman and Madigan are collecting real-world data on the technique’s effectiveness and application. Whether you’ve experienced remarkable recoveries, faced challenges, or simply observed how the technique worked, your insights are essential.
“Your experiences - whether as a veterinarian, breeder, farm manager, or horse owner - are invaluable in helping us assess how widely the technique is used and how effective it has been,” they note.
By contributing, you'll help shape a forthcoming report on neonatal foal care that will be shared with the broader equine community - advancing research and potentially improving foal survival rates worldwide.
Take the survey here:
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